NB 314
March 14, 2008
FREDERICTON (CNB) - New Brunswickers earning minimum wage will be receiving a pay raise. Effective March 31, the hourly minimum wage will be $7.75, an increase of 50 cents.
Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Ed Doherty said this is the largest one-time increase ever. It is the third time the minimum wage has risen since the government took office when it stood at $6.70 per hour. While the province's economy has performed well, the minister says the government would like all New Brunswickers to benefit.
"We want to give individuals and families the opportunity to have a better standard of living and help them build a better future here in New Brunswick," Doherty said. "Through another raise in pay, we will be improving earned incomes, attracting more people into the labour market, and making a difference in the lives of many workers and their families. We want prosperity to be shared with all New Brunswickers so they can be successful in this place."
The increase is consistent with the Self Sufficiency Task Force's recommendation to bring the minimum wage rate in line with the national average. Government will continue to ask for a rate review at least once a year by the independent Minimum Wage Board, in keeping with the commitment outlined under the Charter for Change.
"We will continue to phase in future increases to balance the needs of our workers, while respecting the rights of employers," Doherty said. "We must ensure employees are being treated fairly while keeping our businesses competitive. These rates must be gradually introduced so employers can plan in a predictable manner. We want them to continue growing their businesses and make further investments in their communities."
At the new rate, someone who works 40 hours a week at the minimum wage will be earning $310 - up from $268 when government took office in October 2006.
08/03/14
MEDIA CONTACT: Elaine Bell, Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, 506-453-2568.
08/03/14