WINDSOR, Ont. -- Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne says she will announce proposals in the fall to support businesses through major labour reforms.
Many businesses and business groups have voiced opposition to the changes, in particular a plan to boost the minimum wage to $14 on Jan. 1 and to $15 in 2019.
Loblaw Companies Ltd. (TSX:L) said this week that minimum wage increases in Ontario and Alberta would hurt its bottom line.
The minimum wage increase is included in proposed legislation along with equal pay for part-time workers, increased vacation entitlements and expanded personal emergency leave.
Wynne says she has heard businesses' concerns as committee hearings on the bill have travelled the province this month and says she has committed to help them through the transition.
Speaking today in Windsor, Ont., Wynne wouldn't give specifics of what she would announce in the fall, but noted restaurant owners, for example, have cited fees they pay to the Liquor Control Board of Ontario as an issue, suggesting that's one of the areas she's looking at.
