GOVERNMENT INTRODUCES NEW MINIMUM AGE OF EMPLOYMENT

Changes to The Minimum Wage Regulations will establish age 16 as the general minimum age of employment in Saskatchewan. An ‘absolute' minimum age of 14 has also been established, provided those 14 and 15 year old workers fulfill certain requirements. This regulatory change will come into effect 14 days after being published in the Saskatchewan Gazette.

This change also removes the sector-based application of minimum age provisions so that all sectors of the economy must comply with the minimum age of employment. The amended regulation also establishes that 14 and 15 year olds can work if certain restrictions are met; as well as provides for exceptions in special circumstances.

"These changes to the minimum age of employment are the result of consultations we conducted with stakeholders and the public," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "Establishing an absolute minimum age of employment in Saskatchewan will ensure that young peoples' education is not compromised while at the same time allowing them to gain employment experience."

There are four restrictions to the employment of young people 14 and 15 years of age. Under these restrictions, young people age 14 and 15 who wish to work must:

• obtain the consent of their parent or guardian;
• complete a certificate focusing on occupational health and safety and employment standards;
• not work after 10 p.m. on a day preceding a school day or before the time that school starts on any school day; and
• work no more than a maximum of 16 hours of work during a school week.

Prior to this, only five sectors had a minimum age of employment: hotels, restaurants, educational institutions, hospitals and nursing homes. That restriction was reviewed in May 2009, following a consultation process which began in January.

Current legislation continues to restrict the employment of young people: in casinos and in the sale, handling or service of alcohol; during school hours; and in certain high-risk occupations.

To find out more about Saskatchewan's employment standards, call 1-800-667-1783 or visit www.aeel.gov.sk.ca/ls/.

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For more information, contact:

Lisa Danyluk
AEEL
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7791
Email: lisa.danyluk@gov.sk.ca