News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The public is invited to participate in consultations on indexing the minimum wage to inflation, employment protection for youth and coverage under the Employment Standards Act.

“It is important to ensure that we are protecting all of our workers and are in line with the standards and best practices of other Canadian jurisdictions,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault. “Public input on our proposals is critical to ensure that we achieve the right balance in addressing employer and employee rights and responsibilities.”

Since 2014, the provincial government has increased the minimum wage twice, to $10.65 per hour, and is committed to further increasing it to $11 per hour by 2017 and then indexing it to the rate of inflation.  

“Increasing the minimum wage will give a boost to those hardworking New Brunswickers that need it most,” said Arseneault. “These types of efforts will help stimulate the economy and make life more affordable for families. We look forward to hearing the views of New Brunswickers on the best options for indexing the minimum wage, so we can move forward on this commitment and provide certainty to employers and employees.”

The public is encouraged to participate, until Oct. 7, by visiting the Citizen Engagement and Consultation website to submit their ideas and feedback. They can also submit feedback by emailing [email protected], by phoning 1-844-453-4155 or faxing 506-453-3780.