Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, today told MPs that he did not know how many employers would have to transition their salary structures ahead of the new $16.40 an hour minimum wage coming in on June 1.

Mr Hayward made the admission as he was pressed on the matter by Jarion Richardson, the One Bermuda Alliance Shadow Minister of Labour.

The minister told MPs in the House: “I do not know the exact number of employers who have employees that fall underneath the minimum wage.”

Mr Hayward, who tabled the Employment (Minimum Hourly Wage) Order 2023, said the introduction of the minimum wage would be a great benefit to the low paid.

“Our people deserve it. They deserve to enjoy decent work and fair compensation,” he added.

“Employers of low-wage workers will be required to amend their contracts, and, or, statements of employment to ensure that they are compliant with the order.

“This government has made a commitment to the workers of Bermuda to ensure they receive a dignified wage, which will allow them to cover their basic needs.

“It is this government’s desire to provide adequate social protection to all Bermudians.

“Most modern developed countries have a minimum wage regime.”

The minister added that a minimum wage structure prevented “the exploitation of workers and working families that are below the poverty line from receiving what many consider being unlivable wages”.