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Alberta Minimum Wage Frozen

February 5 2010 - The provincial government states that to ensure 'Albertans in entry-level positions keep working, and that our province's small businesses remain viable and competitive through global economic recovery, Alberta's minimum wage of $8.80 per hour will remain as is through 2010.'

Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of Employment and Immigration, said:

"This decision reflects what government feels will both protect jobs during these uncertain economic times and support the economy. In addition to freezing the minimum wage, I will also request an all-party committee review of our current policy, ensuring that our approach is what's best for Albertans."

The media release stated that details of the minimum wage policy review would be determined over the coming weeks with consultation particulars to be announced at a later date.

Last year's announcement

Alberta's 20,000 minimum wage earners will receive a 40 cent per hour increase on April 1 when the rate goes up from $8.40 per hour to $8.80 per hour. The five-per-cent increase reflects the growth in Alberta's average weekly earnings during 2008.

Hector Goudreau, Minister of Employment and Immigration said:

"We want to ensure that Albertans earning the minimum wage are as protected as possible during these changing times. While a vast majority of Albertans earn much more than the minimum wage, we can't forget about those in lower-income occupations."

Most of the province's minimum wage earners are aged 15 to 19 and work in the accommodation and food services industry. On average Albertans earn $23.90 an hour.

Alberta's minimum wage will rank second among Canadian provinces on April 1 but it will be overtaken between May and July when increases come into effect in Saskatchewan, Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.

The minimum wage was first linked to Alberta's average weekly earnings in June 2007. On April 1, 2008, Alberta's minimum wage increased from $8 to $8.40. According to provincial Government policy, if Alberta's average weekly earnings remain the same or fall from one year to the next, the minimum wage will remain the same.

Employers and employees with questions about the minimum wage can contact the Employment Standards Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-427-3731 or visit employment.alberta.ca/es for more information.