WHEREAS the minimum wage for British Columbians has not increased since November 2001 and the cost of living is one of the highest in Canada; AND WHEREAS British Columbia has the lowest minimum wage rate and the highest child poverty rate in Canada and other provinces are increasing their minimum wage: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be encouraged to increase the minimum wage.
MINISTRY OF LABOUR Government does not intend to increase the minimum wage at this time. Since 2001, fewer and fewer people in B.C. are working for minimum wage. At the same time, government has introduced a wide range of measures to improve the standard of living for lower income British Columbians. In addition, over the past eight years, average hourly wages have increased considerably, including for young workers. It is important to note that raising the minimum wage can have a negative impact on businesses, which struggle to control costs, as well as on employment, particularly among youth and inexperienced workers. Government must carefully balance all of the costs and benefits associated with minimum wage policies and consider future changes in the context of the overall strategy to address poverty issues and promote a strong economy.