Ponoka News readers feel a minimum wage increase will hurt Alberta’s economy.
Posted last week, the question posed to readers was “Do you think a $15 minimum wage will hurt Alberta’s overall economy?” to which 26 of 35 who took part stated, “Yes.”
Of those 35 votes, seven felt it wouldn’t hurt the economy and two votes were “Uncertain.”
There were several comments on Ponoka News’ Facebook page with some taking a direct shot at the current provincial government.
Reader Julie DeAtley feels it’s a fix for other spending issues. “The minimum wage, is just another failure this government is trying to fix their overspending. So look for more stupidity to come from our beloved NDP and liberals, their only worry of money is how much they can line their pockets no matter the consequences.”
Another reader, Barbie Little, suggests it will hurt employees. “Small businesses may need to lay off some employees to meet their higher payroll obligations, which is not a good scenario.”
Another reader feels with more money will come an influx into the system but it may be too late. Faron Leclerc suggests that needs such as rent are already high and the minimum wage increase won’t meet the high costs.
“Now if minimum wage were to increase and nothing actually went up in price then it might make a difference in the economy. It is still going to make no difference to the people that are in poverty, but it the people that live middle class will end up closer to the poverty line,” said Leclerc.
More polls to come for next week.