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UCP government denies it intends to change Alberta’s minimum wage structure

The Government of Alberta released the Minimum Wage Expert Panel report on Friday, and says it intends to maintain the province’s current minimum wage structure.

Brian Jean, the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development, says in a statement the report takes into consideration the province’s economic situation.

“While the panel’s analysis is well done and valuable in a historical context, it must be considered in light of current economic conditions in our province,” Jean said.

He adds maintaining the current minimum wages offer more stability and predictability to employers and employees.

“My biggest takeaway from the panel report is that making large, unexpected changes to minimum wages can actually hurt employment. These changes require significant consultation and deliberation,” Jean said.

“Maintaining the current minimum wage gives employees and employers predictability and stability during a time of economic growth and labour shortages.”

The Alberta NDP claims the report supports cutting liquor server wages, disregarding labour shortages and inflation.

“Danielle Smith will use this report to cut the pay of hundreds of thousands of Albertans. Alberta’s NDP will never let that happen,” said Alberta NDP leader Rachel Notley.

According to the report and the panel mandate, “the experts also assessed whether hospitality industry workers who serve alcohol would benefit from a wage differential allowing them to work more hours.”

However, Jean says otherwise and encourages people to read the report and decide for themselves.

“Contrary to the Opposition’s claims, Alberta’s government has no plans to change the current minimum wage structure or introduce a separate liquor server minimum wage,” he said.

The NDP also argues minimum wage should increase when the cost of living increases.

“The higher minimum wage has helped more families and young people, especially in the last four years as the cost-of-living climbed in this province. Other provinces have followed suit. In fact, both B.C. and Ontario currently have a higher minimum wage than Alberta, and lower youth unemployment,” said Alberta NDP Labour Critic Christina Gray.

The Opposition adds Alberta has had the slowest wage growth in the country since the UCP took office.

“If you work a full-time job, you should be able to pay for the basic necessities of life like groceries, rent and utilities, and be able to start putting some money aside for the future,” said Notley.

According to YCHARTS the unemployment rate in Alberta is six per cent, compared to 5.6 per cent in February, and 6.8 per cent last year.

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