Released on August 29, 2005
Saskatchewan's minimum wage will go up 40 cents an hour, to $7.05 an hour, on Thursday, September 1st."This is the first increase in the minimum wage since November of 2002," Labour Minister Deb Higgins said. "In implementing this increase, the province has balanced the needs of minimum wage earners with the need for our business sector to remain strong and competitive."
The minimum wage increase was first announced June 22nd as part of a three-step process that will see the minimum wage increase to $7.55 an hour on March 1st, 2006 and to $7.95 an hour on March 1st, 2007.
The increase in the minimum wage follows a review held by the Minimum Wage Board. The Board is required to review the minimum wage at least every two years.
"A three-stage increase provides notice to employers about the timing of the stages and gives them the opportunity to plan for the change," Higgins said.
Those interested in more information on the minimum wage, or Labour Standards in Saskatchewan, can call toll-free at 1-800-667-1783 or visit the Saskatchewan Labour website at www.labour.gov.sk.ca.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Greg Leake Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-4156 |