The Province’s minimum wage will increase by 70 cents to $12.25 per hour on April 1st of next year. That means it will remain the highest in Atlantic Canada.
The Employment Standards Board – which reviews the minimum wage rate each year – recommended the increase based on economic factors and public input.
Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Sonny Gallant says the increase provides support to those most in need, puts more money into the pockets of Islanders and stimulates the provincial economy.
Premier Wade MacLauchlan says thanks to hard working Islanders the economy of the province is stronger than ever before.
He says this means more jobs for Islanders and more money in your pocket plus more Island goods are being showcased around the world.
Penny Walsh-McGuire, the CEO for the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce says there are concerns.
She says rising costs for local businesses often result in a lower profit margin or higher prices offered to consumers.
PEI has the lowest average weekly earnings in the country.