Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar is urging the government to raise the minimum wage and remove VAT on all food items in the upcoming budget.

In a statement, she calls for a minimum wage of $25 per hour, since she believes the current hourly rate of $17.50 cannot meet today’s standard of living.

She adds that the removal of VAT is necessary due to increasing food prices, especially since many people have either lost their jobs or are receiving 2013 salaries.

The 2023/2024 Budget will be presented by the Finance Minister this coming Monday.