Ford doesn’t need to choose between employers and workers

September 28, 2018

TORONTO — Mike Schreiner released the following statement in response to the news that the minimum wage will be frozen at $14/hour:

“The government’s decision to halt the minimum wage hike hurts families, newcomers, students, seniors and so many other Ontarians who earn minimum wage. It also hurts local economies and job creation because people will have less money in their pockets to spend locally.

It is a false choice for the Premier to decide between supporting workers or employers. He can support both.

I’m calling on the government to raise the minimum wage to $15 and to lower payroll taxes on small businesses by doubling Employer Health Tax exemption.

Lowering payroll taxes provides small businesses with immediate cash flow relief to be able to create more jobs and pay a higher minimum wage.

Minimum wage workers deserve a livable income. Everyone in Ontario should be able to earn a wage that can allow them to afford decent housing, nutritious food and the ability to pay their bills and take care of their families.

It is unnecessary and wrong for the Premier to use the minimum wage as a wedge issue, pitting workers against employers. It doesn’t need to be this way.

I urge the government to look at measures such as this to help small businesses rather than punish workers.

We need solutions, not cuts. We can raise the minimum wage and support small businesses.

It’s time for the government to put solutions before ideology.”

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