Labour reforms help working poor

Re Liberals unveil wage hikes, labour reforms, May 31 It’s about time! I can hear the business world crying even now about how a $14- and then $15-an-hour minimum wage will be catastrophic for businesses, which will be forced to lay off staff, cut hours or even close up shop.

Something is terribly wrong if the economic health of this country is placed squarely on the backs of the working poor. Sadly, the world has changed and so-called precarious jobs are here to stay. Workers need better standards and protection.

Fortunately, much of those increased wages will be plowed right back into the economy, as people will have more money for essentials like shelter, food and clothing — and maybe even some treats.

I recognize that the Kathleen Wynne government is not very popular right now and I fear that all of these reforms will not come to pass should a different party form the next government.

Despite all of the controversies and scandals over the past few years, I have been encouraged by the Liberals’ progressive initiatives, such as pension reforms, the beginnings of pharmacare and, now, these desperately needed labour reforms. Norah Downey, Midland Employees of businesses that pay very low wages do not make enough money to pay income taxes. They also receive low-income subsidies from governments. This means that businesses paying low wages are asking the rest of us to subsidize their businesses by paying higher taxes to compensate for the taxes not paid by their employees. These businesses are not just struggling momand-pop shops, but also highly profitable corporations like Wal-Mart and McDonalds. Scott Heaslip, Stouffville Who is going to pay for the $15-per-hour minimum wage? Who else: All Ontario residents are going to pay a very high and heavy price. What is the cause of inflation? Always, it is the government. J. Brunins, Britt, Ont.