Vancouver-BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger will be available to speak with media about the $1.35 per hour increase in BC’s minimum wage that goes into effect June 1. It's the first leap in four significant increases implemented by Premier John Horgan’s government that will see BC's minimum hit $15.20 by 2021.
Lanzinger quotes:
“Through our Fight for $15 campaign, the BCFED, its member unions, and countless volunteers won widespread public support for government action to address deep-seated economic inequality in our province,” says Lanzinger.
“Moving to a $15 minimum wage will lift 500,000 BC workers out of poverty. It’s a concrete poverty reduction strategy to address the widening gap between rich and poor.
Fight for $15 facts:
• 500,000 BC workers earn less than $15 per hour;
• 60% of workers earning less than $15 are women;
• 80% are adults;
• Four out of five work for companies with more than 20 employees; and
• One in seven poverty wage earners holds a university degree.