Moncton – The New Brunswick Coalition for Pay Equity is pleased with the government's commitment to “work with the Coalition for Pay Equity, labour, business, and relevant stakeholders to extend pay equity legislation to the private sector” in today’s Throne speech.
After several years of advocating for such legislation, the Coalition looks forward to working with the government and stakeholders to advance pay equity and improve the economic situation of New Brunswick women.
"We hope that the four political parties in the Legislative Assembly will join forces. Pay equity is an issue on which all parties can and must work together for the benefit of employees working in female-dominated jobs," says Frances LeBlanc, the Chair of the Coalition.
During the election campaign, the Liberal Party, the Green Party and the New Democratic Party all promised pay equity legislation for the private sector in their respective platforms. While the platforms of the Progressive Conservative Party and the People's Alliance made no mention of pay equity, the Coalition believes that the door remains open.
"Every party leader said they wanted to listen to and learn from women during the forum on women’s equality issues hosted by the New Brunswick Women's Council on September 17," recalls Frances LeBlanc. "We are confident that they will take the support of the people of New Brunswick for pay equity into consideration."
In fact, according to a recent survey, 85 per cent of New Brunswick residents believe it’s important for the government to pass pay equity legislation for the private sector in the province.
"New Brunswick is ready for pay equity. We must act. Remember that the responsibility to ensure the right to pay equity belongs to everyone," concludes LeBlanc.
Pay equity is equal pay for work of equal value.