New Brunswick’s minimum wage is going up by five cents per hour this spring.
The provincial government announced an increase from $11.70 to $11.75 per hour starting April 1.
The minimum wage rate is linked to the consumer price index rounded to the nearest five cents.
The New Brunswick consumer price index grew by 0.22 per cent in 2020.
“Protecting the purchasing power of employees, who help keep New Brunswick businesses in operation, is one reason for tying minimum wage increases to the consumer price index,” said Labour Minister Trevor Holder.
“At the same time, it ensures predictability for businesses. We are mindful of the financial realities faced by both employees and employers, particularly as we endure the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Currently about 20,000 individuals make minimum wage in New Brunswick or about six percent of the workforce.
