In conclusion, minimum wage is keeping workers in poverty. A person who works 40 hours a week is approximately 23% below the poverty line. According to Statistics Canada, that is before taxes, and for a single person. We are calling for minimum wage in Quebec and the rest of Canada to be increased to the poverty line. We are asking that a minimum wage be reinstated in the Canada Labour Code. The Arthurs report, reviewing federal labour standards, agreed with this point.
An improvement to the federal labour standards is very important for workers who have jobs in sectors under federal jurisdiction, and also for those across Canada in sectors under provincial jurisdiction. The Canada Labour Code serves as a model for provincial legislation.
Thank you very much.