Minimum wage comments are 'madness', says business
Summary
The economic development minister in Jersey criticized the minimum wage, saying it harms the economy, which caused strong reactions from local business owners, charities, and politicians. Some want the government to discuss worker pay privately and adjust policies like tax thresholds to support minimum wage workers better.Key Facts
- The minimum wage in Jersey is currently £13.59 per hour.
- Economic development minister Deputy Gerald Voisin said the minimum wage is "strangling the economy."
- The chief minister disagreed, stating Voisin’s views do not represent the government or States Assembly.
- Coffee shop owner Frank De Jesus said the cost of living and doing business is a big issue and that paying above minimum wage is often necessary to keep good staff.
- De Jesus called for government ministers to discuss wage issues together instead of making public criticisms that cause problems.
- Patrick Lynch, head of a poverty charity, called Voisin’s comments "very sinister" and noted concerns about poverty and modern slavery on the island.
- Eliot Lincoln from the chamber of commerce wants a review of the wage system, including more flexibility for different sectors and better tax and benefit policies.
- This debate was triggered by a business author’s claim that rising wages have caused business closures, supported by Deputy Voisin during his election campaign.
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