ECA watches minimum wage

The Employers Consultative Association (ECA) has welcomed aspects of the National Budget but is waiting to see how other aspects will play out, it said Friday in a statement of immediate reaction. The ECA hopes the cost to business with the increase in the minimum wage to $9 per hour will be offset by the removal of the business levy. “The ECA is particularly pleased to hear of Government’s proposals for full employment, pension reform, harmonisation of old age and national insurance (pensions), and social initiatives.”

The ECA welcomed the boost in jobs in tourism, services, construction, agriculture and energy. “The provision of free drugs for HIV/AIDS patients is a welcome initiative.” They supported the increase in the personal tax allowance from $25,000 to $30,000. “Retired public servants and old age pensioners will also benefit from this Budget.” The ECA was worried about cutting the import surcharge on chicken and turkey parts from 80 percent to 40 percent. “This would mean the opening up of importation that will negatively impact the small, local poultry farmer, thereby creating less employment and the possible closure of small businesses in this area.”