FREDERICTON — The discussion of a potential two-tiered wage system continues to polarize foodservice businesses and advocacy groups in New Brunswick.
Supporters of the action want people who work in establishments that serve alcohol to be paid a different minimum wage.
“It recognizes that the average check in these places is higher than the average check in a Tim Hortons or general service restaurant,” said Luc Erjavec, vice-president, Atlantic for the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) as quoted by CBC News.
Meanwhile, critics argue the introduction of a two-tiered wage system would “impoverish” thousands and set a precedent in Canada. “Every time a province moves to a two-tiered minimum wage for servers, it is encouragement for other provinces to do the same. Certainly the bar and restaurant owners will be using that to push for it in other provinces.” said Larry Haiven, a business professor at St. Mary’s University as quoted by CBC News.
Last fall the provincial government was set to raise the minimum wage to $10 per hour but postponed the increase to further research the ramifications of such a change.
There is no news as to when the minimum wage will be determined.
