Statement by the Prime Minister on International Workers’ Day

Prime Minister John Horgan issued the following statement in recognition of International Workers’ Day:

“Today is International Workers’ Day, a day to honor workers in British Columbia and around the world. It is also an opportunity to reflect on past and present struggles for workers’ rights.

“International Workers’ Day was born at the end of the 19th century out of the struggle for the eight-hour working day. Since then, unions have helped bring about many social gains that continue to protect and benefit workers, from restrictions on child labor and hazardous work, to weekends and holidays.

“Throughout the immense disruptions and challenges of the past two years, workers have been on the front lines, caring for the sick, supporting the most vulnerable and keeping food on store shelves.

“Our government has taken significant action to support and protect BC workers. These range from creating the first-ever permanent paid sick leave in British Columbia, to improved workplace safety measures, to minimum wage increases that better support Colombia’s lowest-paid workers. Columbia and the elimination of the discriminatory lower wage for liquor servers.

“Last month, we introduced changes to make collective bargaining more accessible and help protect workers who want more say in workplace safety, pay and benefits.

“Happy International Workers’ Day!”