The Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) has welcomed the plan by the Jamaica Labour Party administration to increase the minimum wage to $32,000 if it is victorious in the September 3 General Election.

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness announced on Sunday that the minimum wage would increase to $18,500 in the first budget, then gradually rise to $32,000 over the next few years.

The People’s National Party has criticised the move, stating that the minimum wage should never be politicised.

The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce also called on the JLP to follow the established consultative process before committing to an increase in the minimum wage, adding that the announcement was rushed and could result in unemployment.

However, BITU President, Kavan Gayle, has commended the announcement.

He said the BITU stands ready to engage constructively in the implementation of the phased increases for the minimum wage.