Wages/Salaries

Deductions

When you are issued a pay cheque, your employer may deduct money to cover taxes, health plans, and other benefits. The employer may also deduct money to recover pay advances and overpayments. Lawful deductions include income tax, Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance, court-ordered deductions, and health plans (also referred to as group benefits). If you are unsure of the reason for a deduction, ask your employer for an explanation.

Minimum Wage

Minimum Wage is the least amount of money an employee can be paid. As of January 1, 2010, the minimum wage in Nova Scotia is $8.60 per hour. The minimum wage is scheduled to rise to $9.65 per hour by autumn of 2010. If you are a member of a labour union, a different minimum standard of pay may apply.

Range of Wages

In Canada, most employers pay either on the hourly wage rate, or a yearly salary. Salaries can vary depending on the career you have. It is very important to know your rights and benefits prior to accepting any position. You can learn more about wages for various jobs at www.labourmarketinformation.ca.

Union and Non-Union Work Environment

A unionized worker is a member of a group of employees (a union) that have legally joined together in an attempt to improve their workplace conditions (also referred to as a “collective bargaining unit”). Unions usually elect Union Representatives, who are the official representatives in bargaining agreements with employers and government. Unions are formed to protect the rights of all workers equally and to negotiate on behalf of the group, since a group has more power than an individual worker. In many cases, unions negotiate for better working conditions and enhanced benefits for their members.