Increasing minimum wage is not the solution

THE EDITOR, Madam:

As we approach another election season, we see yet another old trick in the book being used. Even though we are grateful for the increase in the minimum wage, it makes me wonder if this is another illusion.

High cost of living and raise of pay in Jamaica work together and in harmony; as the minimum wage increases, so will the cost of goods and services. The people should understand that business owners and other corporations still have to battle with the high cost of raw materials, production and taxes. In order to keep their profits, they will increase the cost of goods and services, which will void this minimum wage increase.

We need to get a better understanding of how the economy works, especially in Jamaica, so as not to be deceived by the politicians’ tricks as they dish it out to us like a plate of curried chicken, only to take a bite and realise that it is ginger and not chicken. We are sure that for now, the $13,000 will feel nice in our pockets, but in a short time the same cry will be heard – that we can hardly afford to buy anything and pay for our basic needs.

What the Government should focus on is how to reduce the cost of living and decrease taxes.

Sad to state, but the majority of the population fails to see the bigger picture of what should be deemed as a political move to secure votes for the next election. It seems it is the culture of Jamaican governments to magically transform as we approach the election season.

This traditional cycle is affecting the country and we need to come to that realisation; and that we should not judge the effectiveness of a party by what they do around the election period. We should judge them by what they can consistently do for the country on a long-term basis.

ANTONIO LATTY