With only weeks remaining until January 1, 2026 the established date for the introduction of the hourly minimum wage and the youth minimum wage—MP Shailiny Tromp-Lee is expressing serious concern about the complete silence from the Government and the lack of preparation for these crucial labor policy changes.
The legal amendment introducing the hourly minimum wage per January 1, 2026 was approved in Parliament on September 1, 2025, and a motion she presented to introduce the youth minimum wage on the same date received unanimous support. The approval of these changes is a victory for the protection of workers and young people in the labor market. However, successful implementation requires a detailed work plan: administratively, legally, andmost importantly communicatively.
Lack of Awareness Campaign and Transparency
Unfortunately, as of today, no awareness or information campaign has begun. Employers and employees, who need to prepare for these changes, remain without the necessary information and support.
The lack of action remains a mystery, especially considering that on October 13, 2025 (and again on December 4, 2025) I submitted a detailed set of written questions to Minister Cecilia, via the President of Parliament. In these questions, I requested clarity on, among other things:
• The status of the national decree introducing the youth minimum wage.
• The detailed implementation plan (administrative, legal, communicative) for the youth minimum wage.
• The basis for the 70% figure mentioned in a communiqué as the proposed youth minimum wage level.
• The communication and enforcement plan of the Department of Labor regarding the hourly minimum wage.
• The status of the “necessary implementation measures” to prevent negative impacts—such as price increases or staff reductions—as emphasized in the unanimously adopted motion.
One and a half months later, these questions remain unanswered
According to MP Tromp-Lee, the silence from the Government is unacceptable. One cannot wait until the law is already in effect to begin informing and educating the community. The Government has an obligation to show respect to Parliament by answering questions, and to the community by implementing the law in a responsible and transparent manner.
Therefore, MP Tromp-Lee urges the Minister to provide accountability immediately and present a clear communication and implementation plan, in order to ensure that the introduction of the hourly minimum wage and the youth minimum wage proceeds correctly on January 1, 2026, as stipulated and as our workers deserve.