GOVERNMENT RELEASES REPORT ON INDEXING MINIMUM WAGE

The Government of Saskatchewan today released the Minimum Wage Board's report on possible indexation of the minimum wage in Saskatchewan. The board recommends indexation tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan thanked the board members for their work consulting on the issue and preparing the report.

"We are interested in exploring indexation of the minimum wage," Morgan said. "That is why we asked the board to research whether this was a practical option for Saskatchewan and, if it was, how indexation could be implemented. The board has recommended indexing and we will consider that recommendation."

Currently, only Yukon indexes its minimum wage, which is linked to the CPI. The current minimum wage in Saskatchewan is $9.25 an hour. The minimum wage has increased 16.3 per cent since January 1, 2008.

"Additionally, we would like to consult our counterparts in other provinces who are considering indexing their minimum wages," Morgan said.

The Minimum Wage Board report is available online at www.lrws.gov.sk.ca.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Jill Tzupa
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7791