Friday deadline for Manitoba survey on apprentice wages

The Manitoba government has set a March 17 deadline for its online survey to gain industry feedback on regulated wage rates for apprentices as part of its plan to increase minimum wage to $15 by this coming October.

“Our government is focused on making life more affordable for Manitobans while ensuring businesses remain strong and continue to grow,” said Advanced Education and Training Minister Sarah Guillemard. “We look forward to hearing from industry stakeholders about the impacts of the upcoming minimum wage increase. The feedback gathered will help to ensure apprentices earn a wage that is appropriate to their skilled trades program and that employers who train them can continue to do so sustainably.”

In 2022, the Manitoba government announced its plan to increase minimum wage to $15 by October 2023 using a phased-in approach that includes consultations with small businesses on the effects of the change.

The minister noted the upcoming increase to minimum wage will have a direct impact on apprentices and industry employers, as many regulated wage rates for apprentices are based on a percentage of the provincial minimum wage rate.

The survey is expected to gather feedback on current apprentice minimum wage rate structures. All industry stakeholder groups including employers, journeypersons, union/labour representatives, association representatives, apprentices and sector committee members are invited to provide feedback.

To take part in the survey, visit https://engagemb.ca. The deadline to respond is March 17.

www.gov.mb.ca