NDP Leader Ryan Meili reiterated his promise Sunday, for a $15 minimum wage if he’s elected Premier.

Meili says the most recent increase is a slap in the face for families in the province.

“Scott Moe says he’s satisfied, but he’s left working families with less money to spend in local businesses. That’s not right. And it is hurting our economic recovery,” said Meili.

Meili says he would phase in the increase in the first term of his government. He also committed to creating a job creator’s plan to support local small businesses adjusting to the higher minimum wage.

Meili says one of the easiest ways to help Saskatchewan recover from the pandemic is to invest in local businesses and workers

“With 19,000 fewer jobs in Saskatchewan compared to a year ago, investing in our economy and supporting local businesses are at the heart of our recovery plan,” said Meili “We need to rebuild the province’s economy from the bottom up.”

A 2017 study showed that 96,000 Saskatchewan people make under $15/hour, representing fully 20 percent of the workforce.