Minimum wage has gone up in five provinces, including two in the Maritimes. Nova Scotia The minimum wage in Nova Scotia increased $0.25 per hour on Thursday from $16.75 to $17 per hour. It follows a previous $0.25 increase back in April. “Raising the minimum wage means more money in the pockets of Nova Scotians who need it most,” said Labour, Skills and Immigration Minister Nolan Young in a provincial news release. “This increase supports workers and recognizes the valuable work they do every day. We’re also helping employers manage costs by lowering taxes and investing in programs that help businesses attract and keep skilled workers.” Natasha Chestnut, executive director of the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia, said they’re supportive of employees making more money per hour, but noted the increase will have an impact on businesses. “Any time costs are going up -- whether that’s food costs, operational costs, labor costs -- any time you see that, there’s always the possibility that consumers might see some increases on menu prices.” “I don’t begrudge it,” said Brendan Doherty, co-owner of the Old Triangle in Halifax. “Anyone who thinks $17 an hour is too much to live on hasn’t tried to live on $17 an hour. “There’s no one in my kitchen making anywhere close to $17. They all make far more than that.” Prince Edward Island On Prince Edward Island, minimum wage increased from $17 to $17.30 – the highest in Atlantic Canada. The rate previously jumped by $0.50 this spring. It is set to go up again on April 1, 2027, to $17.60. New Brunswick New Brunswick currently has the lowest minimum wage in Atlantic Canada at $15.90 per hour. The province’s rate is updated every April and is tied to the consumer price index. The government is currently asking the public to share their thoughts on the province’s minimum wage. The consultations are set to continue until Oct. 9. With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Vanessa Wright
