Territorial At-Large Representative Lorna Smith has strongly criticized the government’s decision to postpone the long-promised minimum wage increase, describing the delay as “immoral.”
Speaking during the 2025 budget debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, December 18, Smith urged the government to prioritize workers’ welfare and fulfil its commitment to raising the minimum wage.
The increase, which would raise the hourly wage from $6 to $8.50, was initially scheduled to take effect on November 30, 2024. However, just two days after the scheduled implementation, the government announced a delay, citing an unspecified “policy decision.”
Smith, who previously served as Minister for Labour, Trade, and Financial Services, expressed dismay over the abrupt delay, noting that all preparations for the increase had been completed under her leadership.
Smith called on Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley to take immediate action to implement the wage increase.