Human Development Junior Minister Speaks on Increase in Minimum Wage

Elvia Vega-Samos

Today, when the media caught up with Minister of State in the Ministry of Human Development, Elvia Vega, she was asked about the proposed increase of the minimum wage from three dollars and thirty-cents to five dollars. It is something that the Briceño Administration said it would address under its Plan Belize manifesto. Minister Vega also says that the increase is a start given inflation.

Elvia Vega-Samos, Minister of State, Human Development

“As a Minister of State in the Ministry of Human Development, it is important that our people feel satisfied with the work they are doing and the payback that comes with it. So yes, in PlanBelize we mentioned that we wanted to raise the minimum wage. And so it is very important in our ministry, Duane, our people are our greatest asset, and so we must look out for our people.”

Duane Moody

“Is five dollars enough though given the inflation?”

Elvia Vega-Samos

“Duane, we are trying our best here. I agree with you it is not enough, but it is a start and we take things one day at a time and we try to do our best; that’s what is important.”