Integris Credit Union announced today it was becoming the first certified living wage employer in the region.
A living wage is the hourly amount a family needs to cover basic expenses such as food, clothing, shelter, and transportation.
In Quesnel, Prince George, Vanderhoof, and Fort St James the bare bones calculation came in at $16.82/hr.
Integris CEO David Bird says he hopes other employers follow their lead saying “someone has to start it.”
“I mean yes it’s going to cut some of the profit out of the bottom line, but the fact remains a happy and cared for employee is going to stick around. You won’t have to rehire, advertise and have a whole other expense on that end.”
The calculated living wage is $6.57 higher than the current $10.25 BC living wage. Integris partnered with the ‘Living Wage for Families Campaign’ to develop the number.
“It will be part of the decision why we deal with company A versus B.” Bird said “Maybe A isn’t treating their employees well, but B is, well lets looks at B. Maybe the cost is a little bit more. But the fact remains that they are taking care of their citizens, our community, our region.”
The living wage calculations take into account the employer’s total compensation package, which is wage plus benefits.
(Files from MY PRINCE GEORGE NOW)