Workers need US$450-month salary to live with dignity: Union leader

Santo Domingo.- The head of the labor unions grouped in the CASC on Tuesday called for a living wage so Dominican workers can live with dignity.

Gabriel del RIo said the salary should be around RD$20,000 (US$450), to match the current cost of household staples. "Nearly 85 percent of public and private employees earn less than 15,000 pesos."

Interviewed on NCDN Channel 37, the union leader complained that even before the talks toward a wage hike begin, the prices of various foods have soared when the new VAT tax is added.

He said the population is afraid to organize and demand their rights, including better pay.