A $0.60 increase is bringing Quebec’s general minimum wage to $13.10 per hour, Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity Jean Boulet announced on Wednesday.
The 4.8 per cent hike, effective May 1, 2020, will affect 409,100 Quebecers, including 235,700 women, according to a ministry press release.
The minimum wage for Quebec workers who receive tips climbs to $10.45 per hour — a $0.40 rise.
The ministry noted that the increase is part of its 2019-2023 strategic plan to contribute to satisfactory employment conditions and harmonious working relations.
In a statement, Boulet said the rise will increase workers’ buying power and reduce poverty rates while respecting businesses’ financial capabilities without hindering their competitiveness.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) said in a statement that the hike could add extra pressure to small and medium-sized enterprises.
“The 4.8 per cent hike is almost as important as their profit margin and adds to other social charges paid by the employers,” said François Vincent, CFIB Vice-President.
To fight poverty, the CFIB is asking the Quebec government to enhance fiscal measures to increase available revenue for lower-wage workers.
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