Increase to minimum wage effective June 1, 2005

Joan Burke, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment, announced today that the first of four incremental increases to the minimum wage will take effect tomorrow, June 1, 2005.
The minimum wage in Newfoundland and Labrador will increase by 25 cents, from $6.00 per hour to $6.25 per hour.

"In January, government approved a $1 dollar raise to the provinces hourly rate after an extensive review of the minimum wage and consultations that resulted in over 150 submissions," said Minister Burke. "The level of the increase and the time frame in which it is being implemented reflects a balance between the province�s fiscal realities, the needs of minimum wage earners and the business community.

"As the minister responsible for the Income Support Program, I understand deeply the needs of those who require our help to meet their families� needs. The increase of $1 dollar represents one component of this government�s work to build an environment of prosperity and self-sufficiency for all. It is also in keeping with our mandate to achieve minimum wage parity with the rest of Atlantic Canada."

The next increase to $6.50 per hour is effective January 1, 2006, with two other 25 cent increases to occur June 1, 2006 and January 1, 2007 respectively.

Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-4062, 689-2624

2005 05 31                               12:25 p.m.