Manitoba plans for tax breaks and minimum wage hikes

(Dec. 2/11) As part of its priority to focus on “Manitoba’s affordability advantage,” the Selinger government has made tax and minimum wage commitments with implications for restaurateurs. The good news is that government pledged to “continue to take more businesses off the tax rolls.” The bad news? Government also promised to “ensure regular and sustainable increases in the minimum wage.”

Pushing for wage differentials
In light of this promise, CRFA expects government will continue raising the minimum wage each October. In response, we will hold government to its commitment that any increase be “sustainable.” We will point out that the 12 increases in 11 years at more than double the rate of inflation is not sustainable, and ask that any increase be tempered by introducing both a tip differential wage and a training wage.

Other priorities in Manitoba
In its Throne Speech, the Selinger government outlined key priorities for the next four years that remain close to its election platform. In addition to focusing on “Manitoba’s affordability advantage,” government aims to: