Minimum wage increase caught businesses off-guard: Chamber

On Thursday, the Ontario Government introduced legislation that would increase the Province’s minimum wage from $14.35 to $15 effective January 1.

It was an about-face from the current government, which cancelled a similar move by the previous government when they came to power in 2018, but while the move was welcomed by employees, the decision caught some employers by surprise, according to the Aurora Chamber of Commerce.

“While the Chamber understands the importance of an increase in the minimum wage, especially in looking at the cost of living in the GTA, we are concerned that we, like businesses, were caught off-guard by the announcement this week and there has been minimal consultation with the business community,” said Sandra Ferri, President & CEO of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce. “For that reason, the Chamber is going to be reaching out to our members to hear what they are saying so we can provide feedback on their behalf back to the government.

“We’re coming out of this pandemic and we’re wondering about timing and whether it is the right time.”

From the Province’s perspective, the timing is right – and this is due to the pandemic.

“Ontario’s workers have been the unsung heroes of this pandemic, as they’ve stocked shelves, kept our supply chain moving and helped so many of us enjoy a meal among family and friends at a local restaurant,” said Premier Doug Ford in a statement. “When we asked labour leaders what their priorities were, increasing the minimum wage was at the top of the list. As the cost of living continues to go up, our government is proud to be working for workers, putting more money into their pockets by increasing the minimum wage.”