Ontarians speak out- minimum wage

The debate over a $10/hr minimum wage is heating up in the blogosphere, and is increasingly finding its way into the news media, particularly the Toronto Star, who has been running a feature story on the working poor on a near daily basis. The Star recently asked various Ontarians what they thought of the NDP's proposed increases to minimum wage. It seems that most people recognize the need for a living wage and are in favour of increases more generous that what the current Liberal government is proposing. It also seems that the MPPs recent decision to give themselves a 25% wage increase is resonating with many Ontarians. Whether or not this issue will be still be as salient by the time fall election is another issue all together, but not many Ontarians applaud the MPPs decision to give themselves an unwarranted raise. With the exception of Scott Mitchell of Brampton, who is clearly an arrogant asshole, most respondents were supportive of substantial increases. Here's what they had to say....

They are called minimum wage jobs for a reason. If you don't like the pay, get an education and find something better.
Scott Mitchell, Brampton

Everywhere minimum wage has been raised to a living wage the result has been a success. After all if you have more money to spend, doesn't the economy get better, more jobs are created to fill the demand for more consumer products.
Richard Clark, Toronto

The problem with this is the question. The minimum wage issue ,should be thought of as regional. The cost of living in Toronto is higher than say, Woodstock. Private sector wages often reflect that, so should the minimum wage.
K. Morant, Guelph

Being a student, I support the idea of raising the minimum wage, but it should be raised gradually to provide businesses a chance to adapt much like the government is already doing now.
David Valentin, Toronto

Mr. Sorbara doesn't have to worry, he just voted himself a 25 percent wage hike. Get real Ontario. Let him and his cronies live on $8 an hour and then perhaps we will see a change of heart.
Ruth McNeil, Toronto

I find it ironic that a modest wage hike for workers triggers such fear-mongering regarding inflation fears, but there is nary a raised eyebrow when politicians give themselves raises and the executive branch of corporations pay themselves millions.
Helen Bullock, Ajax

People just want a chance to have a decent life. If $2 more an hour will at least give them a chance, just do it. It's not like they are asking for $25,000!
Louise Colby, Toronto