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Minimum Wage Fixing Convention, 1970 (No. 131) - Antigua and Barbuda (RATIFICATION: 2002)

Article 2(1) of the Convention. Sanctions for non-payment of the national minimum wage. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the level of the monetary fine provided for in section C23(1) of the Labour Code (Cap. 27) for non-payment of the national minimum wage is currently reviewed by the National Labour Board and relevant recommendations are circulated to the Cabinet but no amendments have yet been adopted. Recalling the need for truly dissuasive sanctions in order to effectively prevent and punish infringements of the minimum wage legislation, the Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed on any progress made in this regard, and to transmit copies of any amended text once adopted.

Articles 3 and 4. Review of the minimum wage and full consultations with employers’ and workers’ organizations. The Committee understands that the national minimum wage, which is usually readjusted every two years, remains unchanged at the level of 7.50 East Caribbean dollars (approximately US$2.90) per hour fixed in January 2008. The Committee requests the Government to indicate any steps taken or envisaged for the appointment of the Minimum Wage Advisory Committee with a view to assessing national social and economic conditions and preparing recommendations for the readjustment of the national minimum wage rate or the minimum wage rates applicable to specific occupations. The Committee also requests the Government to indicate whether the Rules on the powers, duties and procedure of the Minimum Wage Advisory Committee, provided for in section C21(2) of the Labour Code, have been issued and, if so, to transmit a copy.