Do you think the minimum wage should be raised?

This week in Streetsville, the question on peoples’ minds was the ongoing debate over whether or not the minimum wage should be increased. Of the thirty people surveyed, a variety of opinions were expressed and a wide range of opinions were brought up. Across town, men and women between the ages of 18 and 40 were questioned on the matter. Our poll indicates that 40% of those surveyed believe the minimum wage should be raised. Thirty percent believe it should stay the same, and the other 30% are undecided. Here is a glimpse into what Streetsville has to say:

“Yes, it should be raised, because the cost of living is increasing. It's getting harder to support my family. I have two kids on their way to university, and it is getting more difficult to give my children the things they want to feel comfortable. Besides, if people are getting paid more per hour, we are able to buy more and as a result, help the economy and have a higher quality of life.” – Joanne

“It doesn’t seem like a bad idea because it gives us an incentive to work, since the rate is set at a higher level by the government. That encourages people to work in the labour sector and our overall productivity will increase. How could that harm anyone?” – Raj

“I think it’s the government’s duty to reduce poverty and raise the standard of living for its citizens. There are people out there who rely on minimum wage for survival. It is not fair for them to have to reach an absolute minimum quality of life when this can be avoided.” – Michael

“No, it shouldn’t be raised at all. This actually disadvantages the poor because business will be substituted for labour. The chances of getting a job will worsen since companies won’t be able to afford more expensive labour, and then people in need of jobs will suffer.” – Shan

“I’m not completely convinced with the idea of raising the wage. Sure, more people will be encouraged to work, but companies will have a harder time keeping them employed because they will have to pay them a higher rate. Boosting the wage artificially can lead to an uncompetitive market since there’s the potential of a misallocation of resources.” – Layanna

Despite anti-poverty groups advocating for higher minimum wages, simply raising the minimum wage cannot fix the problem of poverty that affects families in our city. Ultimately, they need more opportunities to move beyond minimum wage jobs into employment that can support a better standard of living. Fortunately, the government hasn’t lost sight of the fact that an increase in the minimum age is lifting workers out of poverty, and that’s one step closer to a healthier, happier community!

How do you feel about the minimum wage? Join us in our discussions or feel free to share your ideas on what you would like to see the town of Streetsville address.

The Streetsville BIA held its Annual General Meeting on March 8 at the Vic Johnston Arena.and Community Centre's banquet hall. Each year, the BIA takes the opportunity to present special awards to deserving members of the community. This year, the special awards went to...

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