In a major step forward for gender equality, the Canadian labour movement is celebrating after the federal government tabled a new Pay Equity Act. The new bill requires all federally regulated employers to create proactive pay equity plans and creates a Pay Equity Commissioner to ensure employers follow through.
This will impact women working in the following sectors:
- the federal public service, the Prime Minister and ministers’ offices;
- the federal private sector;
- banks, marine shipping, ferry and port services;
- transportation that crosses provincial or international borders;
- telecommunications; and
- certain other industries.
"This is a historic moment for women in our country because it will pave the way for pay equity everywhere. We would not be here if it were not for #donewaiting activists like you. Generations of women and allies have worked tirelessly to see this through," said Marie Clarke Walker, Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress.
"Our efforts for an effective pay equity law does not end here. In the coming days, we will be sifting through the Act in detail. Stay tuned for more analysis and actions you’ll be able to take."
