Durrant Pate/Contributor
The House of Representatives has approved the announced increases in the national minimum wage and the minimum wage for industrial security guards set to take effect on June 1.
The national minimum wage is being increased from J$15,000 to J$16,000 per 40-hour work week.
As such:
- Single time rate is to be increased from J$375.00 per hour to J$400 per hour for work done by the worker during any period not exceeding 40 hours in any week;
- Time and a half is to be increased from J$562.50 per hour to J$600 per hour for work done in excess of 40 hours in any week; and
- Double time is to be increased from J$750 per hour to J$800 per hour for work done by the worker during any period on a rest day or on a public holiday.
Similarly, the minimum wage for industrial security guards is being increased from J$15,000 to J$16,000 per 40-hour work week, with corresponding adjustments.
- Single time rate is to be increased from J$375 per hour to J$400 per hour for work done by the worker during any period not exceeding 40 hours in any week;
- Time and a half is to be increased from J$562.50 per hour to J$600 per hour for work done in excess of 40 hours in any week; and
- Double time is to be increased from J$750 per hour to J$800 per hour for work done by the worker during any period on a rest day or on a public holiday.
The increases were announced by Prime Minister Andrew Holness during his March contribution to the 2025-26 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives. It represents the fifth increase in the minimum wage since 2016.
Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr., who successfully piloted the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Order and the Minimum Wage Industrial Security Guards (Amendment) Order through the Parliament, thus approving the increase, explained that the wage increase for industrial security guards applies solely to the basic rate.
As such, there will be no change at this time to the allowances or insurance benefits prescribed under the Industrial Security Guards Order. These benefits will therefore remain at the prevailing rates, i.e., the laundry allowance is unchanged at J$52.38 per hour; firearm premium allowance at J$57.15 per hour; dog handler’s premium allowance at J$39.29 per hour; and life insurance coverage with double indemnity protection and dismemberment coverage will remain at J$3,273,000.
He told the Parliament, “While these allowances remain unchanged, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to review and monitor the broader compensation framework for security personnel to ensure it remains fair, adequate, and reflective of industry conditions. Madam Speaker, I am deeply aware of the pressures faced by minimum wage earners. Rising costs of transportation, food, school fees, and healthcare are daily challenges for many. These workers are not statistics—they are the caregivers, the shop assistants, the cleaners, the watchmen and watchwomen who keep our society moving. Their sacrifices demand more than gratitude—they require action.”
Charles further asserted that the minimum wage is a legal floor, arguing “it must not become a moral ceiling. I call on employers with the means to do more—invest in your workers”.
“When you treat them fairly, they will return that fairness with loyalty and performance. Let this increase serve not just as economic relief, but as a bold step toward a more just and equitable Jamaica. Let it reflect our shared belief that those who build this country with their hands should not be left behind,” said the minister.
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