Moncton – A majority of New Brunswickers supports pay equity legislation for the private sector, according to a recent poll.
The survey, conducted by Corporate Research Associates Inc. (CRA) and commissioned by the New Brunswick Coalition for Pay Equity, shows that 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.
Frances LeBlanc, Chair of the Coalition, is not surprised. “Time and time again, we found that New Brunswickers value fairness and support equal pay for work of equal value.”
Following a detailed description of gender pay equity, results also suggest that two-thirds (65 per cent) of New Brunswickers believe that jobs predominantly held by women are paid less than jobs of comparable value predominantly held by men.
In the light of these results, Frances LeBlanc believes that all political parties should take notice of the overwhelming public support and take action. Three political parties have included a commitment to adopt pay equity legislation for the private sector in their respective platform: the Liberal Party, the New Democratic Party and the Green Party.
“These three parties are doing the right thing because clearly, New Brunswick is ready and the time is now. However, remember that ensuring the right to pay equity is everyone’s responsibility,” concludes LeBlanc.
CRA surveyed 400 adults from New Brunswick by telephone between Aug. 15 and Aug. 30