Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government plans to begin consultations with hoteliers on establishing a special minimum wage for workers in the tourism sector.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne said many Antiguans and Barbudans are turning away from hotel jobs because they believe the pay does not match the demands of the work.

“There must be a reason why Antiguans and Barbudans are not going for hotel jobs,” Browne said. “I believe that a part of it is the remuneration.”

He argued that hotel workers are among the most productive employees in the economy and should receive better compensation.

“There has to be a fair balance, and the hotels have to see the staff as significant stakeholders, and to do better in remunerating them,” Browne said.

The prime minister said the government is now moving toward the creation of a separate minimum wage arrangement for hotel employees.

“That is why we want to now move towards having a special minimum wage for hotel workers. Now we’re going to consult with hoteliers,” Browne said.

According to Browne, he has already spoken with officials about preparing recommendations on possible wage levels.

“I spoke to the governor today and I asked him to get his staff to put some figures together as to what type of minimum wage,” he said.

Browne also criticized some hotel operators for what he described as low wages and inadequate support for workers, particularly women with young children.

He said the government may eventually consider legislation requiring hotels to provide childcare facilities for employees.

“Every single hotel should have a crèche,” Browne said.

The comments come as the government continues broader discussions on living wages and labour conditions in Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism-dependent economy.