Farley Pledges $5,500 Living Wage for THA
Tobago People’s Party leader Farley Augustine has announced a major policy shift intended to combat the rising cost of living, pledging a new minimum living wage of $5,500 for all Tobago House of Assembly (THA) workers. Speaking on the political platform ahead of the upcoming polls, Augustine declared that this new wage structure would take effect on January 12, 2026.
In his address, Augustine acknowledged the severe economic pressures facing Tobagonians, noting that inflation and supply chain challenges have made the cost of living in Tobago significantly higher than in Trinidad. He cited the « logistics and supply chain challenges » involved in importing goods to the island as a primary driver of rising prices for food and building materials.
The proposed wage increase targets the most vulnerable workers, specifically those in the CEPEP and URP programmes, as well as daily-rated workers. Augustine argued that the current wage levels are insufficient for these employees to secure basic necessities, stating that workers need to earn enough to « own a home, » « buy a piece of land, » and « invest in your children’s education ».
Augustine framed the $5,500 minimum not just as a raise, but as a necessary adjustment to reality. He emphasized that what is required to live with dignity in Tobago exceeds the requirements in Trinidad, and this policy ensures that THA workers can survive the current economic climate.
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