Recently, The Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz suggested that unpaid internships might be and extremely beneficial way for motivated youths to gain job experience. This statement has influenced a stream of counter ideas such as Claire Seaborn stating his proposal to be; ” a complete misunderstanding and devaluation of young people”. Claire Seaborn believes unpaid internships are contributing to the income gap between the wealthy and the less fortunate.

 Personally I believe that unpaid internships are extremely beneficial due to the fact that as an intern, one is gaining lifelong experience that will contribute to better jobs in the future. In regards to the view put forward by Claire Seaborn, we must consider the fact that there are many financial options available for students that are less fortunate. Student loans are put in place so that students are able to work part time at an internship while not having to worry about their financial situation. When labour laws require companies to pay their interns, the company will begin to get selective as to who they hire. This means that only students with impressive resumes and school experience will be taken. This actually ensures only the wealthy who’s parents can afford to send them to school will be eligible in most cases. Unpaid internships give motivated youth who would otherwise be ineligible, an opportunity to learn and further their experience in a given field.

Link: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/poloz-having-something-unpaid-on-your-cv-is-very-worth-it/article21439305/