Photo from CrownCanada

Only a little under two weeks ago, the Vancouver Island based First-Nations band,  Huu-ay-aht, have announced that they soon will begin a living wage, one will be able to cover the the costs to sustain a normal standard of living, as opposed to the minimum wage currently imposed by the provincial government. This particular living wage will be seven dollars higher than our current wage making it around $17/hour after taxes. Although a progressive step towards change, this move has garnered both praise and criticism. 

I believe that this change should take place in certain communities and cities, such as our own, Vancouver. Living expenses in Vancouver are way too high and our current wage can only cover a part of it. Being able to continue living in this city on my own is a goal of mines, however, I am worried that this will only continue to be a goal and not a reality. Making around ten dollars an hour will barely be able cover rent, utilities and food each month.

Photo from Darryl Dyck/Canadian Press

This living wage will also be helpful as it could lead to less poverty around First-Nations communities. Last year, it was reported that half of First-Nations children are living in poverty. Hopefully, by implementing a living wage, it can help lessen the poverty in communities and improve their quality of life.

Source:

http://www.vancouversun.com/business/First+Nation+implement+living+wage/10332831/story.html