A large portion of Tofino’s service and tourism industry workers making less than a living wage
By Alexandra Mehl, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter HA-SHILTH-SA
Tourism might be a major contribution to Tofino’s economy, but the industry is “less likely” to offer the region’s living wage, according to a recent report.
While the costs of food, shelter, and transportation increase, tight food budgets are likely as locals cut corners to shoulder expenses.
In early November, Clayoquot Biosphere Trust published its biannual Vital Signs report revealing the regions living wage of $26.51 per hour — almost 10 dollars over the province’s minimum wage of $16.75.
Roughly 32 per cent of workers in the Clayoquot Sound region have employment in accommodation, food service and retail trade sectors, which are all “likely to earn below the living wage”, reads the report.
“Working families that earn less than a living wage may face tough choices, such as deciding…