As of June 1, B.C.’s lowest paid workers will get a pay boost as the minimum wage increases from $15.20 to $15.65 per hour, which is the highest of any province.

This increase is part of a commitment made by government in 2018 to support workers and their families. Five years of measured, predictable increases have benefited as many as 400,000 British Columbians, the majority of whom are women, immigrants or youth.

The minimum wage increase to $15.65 per hour is tied to British Columbia’s average annual inflation rate which, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021, was calculated at 2.8%. This is consistent with the approach taken in other jurisdictions.

“Having a fair minimum wage is a key step in helping to lift more people out of poverty, make life more affordable and build a strong economy for B.C.,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour. “We will continue to advocate for fair wages for all workers, especially those low-income workers who have been so essential to our health and well-being during the pandemic.”

As of June 1, a 2.8% increase will also apply to the live-in camp leader and live-in home-support worker minimum daily wages and the resident caretaker minimum monthly wage.

In 2021, six per cent of employees in B.C. (136,300) earned minimum wage or less.

In 2021, 52% of employees earning minimum wage or less were older than 25 and 58% were women.

e-KNOW

Article Share