Wages and salaries vary considerably between industries. The national minimum wage is presently TT$9.00 per hour (approximately US$1.44) and associated overtime rates. However, the Prime Minister announced a new minimum wage of TT$10.00 (approximately US$1.59) during his August 2007 budget presentation to Parliament, and the Minimum wage board is expected to approve it in early 2009. The Maternity Protection Act of 1998 provides for maternity benefits. The Occupational Safety and Health Act is now in force.