Ontario government proposes minimum wage increase

DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard

DURHAM/KAWARTHA: The Ontario government is introducing legislation to increase the minimum wage in Ontario to $15 per hour.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, November 2nd. If passed, this new minimum wage would come into effect on January 1st. The current minimum wage in Ontario is $14.35 per hour.

“During the pandemic, Ontario has relied more than ever on our frontline workers,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford said at a press conference. “While their contributions weren’t always recognized, these unsung heroes made sacrifices we will never forget. When it mattered most, our workers met the moment.”

The Premier also acknowledged “wages haven’t kept up with the increasing cost of living” for many Ontario workers.

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said the announcement proves the Ontario government has workers’ backs.

“An incredible debt of gratitude is owed to the workers of Ontario. These dedicated men and women have kept store shelves stocked and supply chains going throughout [the] COVID-19 [pandemic]. Ontario workers should be in a race to the top, not a race to the bottom.”

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