Pay transparency measures under consideration
The Labour Advisory Council is considering if Bermuda could adopt new structured pay transparency measures, the House of Assembly heard today.
Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said that the LAC was involved in “substantive discussions” on the topic this year and looking at whether measures could be used to support fairness, reduce unexplained pay gaps and promote equitable recruitment practices.
He said: “Deliberations explored a number of recommendations including the adoption of objective criteria for determining compensation, including job classifications, qualifications and experience.”
Other recommendations discussed included prohibiting the use of salary history in hiring decisions, transparent salary ranges in job advertisements and safeguards to protect business competitiveness.
Mr Hayward said that the LAC is tasked with advancing industrial relations and making recommendations concerning legislative amendments, policies and standards impacting Bermuda’s labour force.
He told the House that this year the LAC had provided input on emerging labour issues and helped to guide improvements to the Employment and Labour Tribunal.
Mr Hayward said: “Serving as Bermuda’s primary tripartite platform, enabling open and balanced consultation between employers, unions and Government, the LAC facilitated structured discussions regarding strengthening the enforcement mechanisms of the Employment and Labour Relations Tribunal.
“This has led the ministry to progress strategic legislative amendments which will provide greater protection for employees in relation to disciplinary action and create measures that further assist the function and efficiency of the Employment and Labour Relations Tribunal.”
Mr Hayward added: “The LAC also evaluated the implications of publishing policy guidance to encourage employers to retain workers beyond retirement age to reflect longevity trends and workforce sustainability.
“Both employers and unions provided differing but constructive perspectives, demonstrating the value of the LAC’s tripartite model in addressing complex policy issues.”
He said the LAC is expected to continue its work in 2026 with a “robust agenda” including a review of essential services and an evaluation of the extent to which Bermuda’s laws align with its obligations under International Labour Organisation conventions.
• To see the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media
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