Many of the reforms brought about by Bill 148, including an increase to Ontario’s minimum wage to $14.00 per hour, came into effect on January 1. The diocese is supportive of these measures which make important strides towards ensuring all workers have enough to flourish, free of poverty.
At the same time, some employers have chosen to claw back benefits to their workers, sparking much debate and a number of large solidarity protests.
As Bishop Michael Bird said previously, “at a time when many seek to sow division and discord, paying living wages is an act of justice and inclusion.”
These changes create, through conversations and our daily actions and choices, many opportunities to live into our baptismal covenant by bearing witness to our values about respecting and upholding the dignity of every human being.
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Deacons Bench: Your Servant is Listening