Pay Equity
History
More than 25 years after the adoption of the Canadian Human Rights Act, women working full-time still earn 71% of men's salaries, regardless of age, occupation or education. The wage gap is even greater for Aboriginal women, racialized women, and new immigrant women. In response to pressures from organized labour and the women's movement, the federal government created the Task Force on Pay Equity that submitted its final report in May 2004. This report proposes pro-active, stand-alone, federal pay-equity legislation and expanded coverage of pay equity to Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and visible minorities. Although the Task Force recommendations are good news for women, they have not yet been implemented. FAFIA is joining members of the Pay Equity Network to lobby the federal government to adopt the Task Force recommendations.Analysis and Actions
Pay Equity and Women in Canada
On average, women still earn less than men regardless of their occupation, age or education. Today, women earn 72.5 cents for every dollar a man earns. For women of colour, Aboriginal women, and women with a disability, the wage gap is even greater.
Letter Action Overview
In October of this year, the Supreme Court of Canada found in NAPE vs. Newfoundland and Labrador that it was acceptable for provincial governments to violate women’s equality and human rights if they claim an impending fiscal crisis. Women in Newfoundland and Labrador, and indeed across the country, reject this dangerous precedent.
How to Participate
Pay equity commitment needs legislative action now
Liberal Cabinet Ministers who have expressed their support for pay equity will be under scrutiny in the upcoming weeks to see if they make good on their commitment.
NAWL and New Pay Equity Network (PEN) Launch Campaign for Federal Pay Equity Legislation
On February 14 th 2005, NAWL and the Pay Equity Network launched our campaign for proactive pay equity legislation at the Famous Five monument on Parliament Hill. The network sent a Valentine’s Day card to every MP and Senator to remind them that Pay Equity is at the Heart of Equality .
