By Greg Osoba, CKTZ News, through an LJI grant from Canada-info.ca

On June 1, BC’s minimum wage will increase by 45 cents to $15.65 per hour, making it the highest in Canada, according to the Retail Council of Canada.

The provincial government says the rise is to help workers cope with inflation, currently running nationally at just over five percent. The goal is also to help edge employees towards earning a living wage.

The minimum wage in BC has increased every June over the past four years. In 2018, it stood at $12.65 per hour and with the June 2022 scheduled boost, that rate will have increased by $3.00.

On Cortes Island, Bertha Jeffery, owner of the Cortes Market general store, says the debate over minimum wage has many facets and isn’t simple. She feels the upcoming increase has both positive and negative consequences, as she adjusts to changing economic conditions with her own business.

Top image credit: The entry way to The Cortes Market general store on rural Cortes Island. Photo by Greg Osoba.