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MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE
The current issue that is threaten- ing the golf industry is the recent decisions by certain provinces to increase the minimum wage.
Following Alberta’s decision, the Ontario government quickly announced their intention to also have a $15 minimum wage in effect by Jan 1, 2019. The ramification of this decision to the golf industry is significant, with labour being the largest single expense line item at a facility.
Our research confirms that the cost escalation would increase the overall labour cost of an 18-hole facility by approximately 21%, which is impossible to absorb and thus forces facilities to raise their prices or cut services.
The NGCOA Canada has been very active in recent months on this issue by creating a position state- ment which was sent with a letter to the Premier of Ontario to outline our concerns. Members of NGCOA Canada and our Ontario Chapter Advisory Boards presented at three different provincial public hearings on this issue as well as submitted a letter to the Standing Committee of Finance & Economic Affairs. Following those efforts, we also met directly with specific Ontario MPPs on this issue, including the Critic of Labour to help elevate our concerns.
The Quebec golf industry brought representatives to
the National Assembly to increase awareness of golf as a major driver for the Quebec economy.
“The NGCOA Canada has been very active in recent months on the minimum wage increase issue by creating a position statement which was sent with a letter to the Premier of Ontario to outline our concerns.“
THE FUTURE
Where do we go from here? Federal, provincial and regional govern- ments all have their own agendas and direction, which can change at minimum after each election, and unfortunately sometimes small busi- ness operators are caught in the middle.
There are countless issues that are facing golf course owners and operators in this country ranging from water usage to on-site alcohol and marijuana consumption. On your own, it is extremely difficult to have your voice heard. However, when working together, the collective message grows stronger and louder creating a greater opportunity for a positive outcome for the golf industry.
Other industries that have seen success in their advocacy efforts have not only had strong leadership through their associations’ efforts, but the actual members have been involved as well.
It is hearing directly from constituents on key issues that will ulti- mately sway a politician’s stance, so as we continue moving forward on these and other key issues, we ask that you stay involved and help make a difference!
Golf Business Canada
30 Golf Business Canada