Ontario MPP’s have sent Bill 148 to committee for final considerations before it faces third and final reading in the Legislature. The bill has become infamous as the ‘minimum wage’ bill, but the 64 amendments to various pieces of legislation have severe implications for the foodservice industry in Ontario.
Today, Restaurants Canada was called before committee to provide expert testimony on Bill 148. Joyce Reynolds, Executive Vice President for Restaurants Canada, presented the industry’s concerns on the significant implications for our sector and told the committee that the proposed legislation could put more than 17,000 jobs at risk in the foodservice sector.
“I want to ensure this Committee that the foodservice industry is not opposed to the minimum wage adjustments in Ontario,” said Reynolds. “We are however, very concerned about the pace of implementation. The aggressive timelines will compromise the ability of the sector to absorb all of these additional costs.”
Since the introduction of the proposed legislation, Restaurants Canada has expressed deep concerns about the pace of implementation and the burdensome nature of the regulatory changes on business owners. Restaurants Canada and its members support the incredibly talented and hardworking staff who make the industry so vibrant and exciting.
“We have grave concerns that countless small businesses and entrepreneurs will be placed at risk of closure, downsizing and reduction of service to the communities they serve,” said Reynolds.
Ontario’s restaurant industry directly employs nearly 473,000 Ontarians, roughly 7% of the province’s total labour force. Restaurants Canada continues to call on members to reach out to their MPP’s and candidates in advance of the spring Ontario election.
Restaurants Canada is a growing community of 30,000 foodservice businesses, including restaurants, bars, caterers, institutions and suppliers. We connect our members from coast to coast, through services, research and advocacy for a strong and vibrant restaurant industry. Canada’s restaurant industry directly employs 1.2 million Canadians and serves 18 million customers every day.
Restaurants Canada Digital
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