N.S. to put in largest minimum wage increase ever

It’s the largest minimum wage increase in Nova Scotia’s history.

It’s going up $1.30 by October to $16.50 an hour.

The first raise will take it to $15.70 on April 1.

Labour, Skills and Immigration minister Nolan Young says inflation continues to put pressure on families, and they need to do what they can to help.

Over seven percent of workers in the province earned minimum wage last year.

NSFL reacts:

A labour group says it’s a great start to a living wage.

The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour says they’re pleased to see the minimum wage increase.

President Danny Cavanaugh says hardworking Nova Scotians need and deserve to make ends meet.

He adds this gives them a beacon of hope, but the government needs to get to the living wage sooner.

They want to see dialogue between the province and workers, unions and organizations on a plan to get there.

Cavanaugh says it’s not about dollars and cents, it’s about dignity, respect and a better life for all Nova Scotians.