Saturday, November 22, 2025

Raising the Floor—And Reaching Higher

CLAC calls for fair wages for all long term care workers

By Aren Plante, Representative, Grimsby Member Centre

Ontario’s new minimum wage increase—to $17.60 per hour effective October 1, 2025—was welcome news for more than 800,000 workers across the province. It’s a step in the right direction and a meaningful boost for many families feeling the strain of rising living costs and workplace pressures. But for thousands of healthcare and long term care workers, it still falls short of what’s needed to ensure real fairness, stability, and respect across the sector.

CLAC applauds this progress, yet we know that many essential workers—those who clean, cook, and care—remain undervalued. For years, CLAC has advocated for a more equitable and sustainable approach to compensation in Ontario’s care sector. While government wage enhancements for PSWs have provided some relief, thousands of other critical staff—housekeepers, dietary aides, laundry workers, recreation aides, and administrative personnel—continue to be left behind.

Each of these team members plays a vital role in providing quality resident care, safety, and dignity. Fair pay shouldn’t depend on job classification; it should reflect the value every worker brings to the home.

That’s why CLAC continues to lobby the Ontario government to expand the existing PSW wage enhancement to include all front-line classifications in long term care. Recognizing the entire care team would not only strengthen recruitment and retention but also improve continuity of care and show genuine appreciation for those who serve Ontario’s most vulnerable residents every day.

Raising the minimum wage is a good start—but long term care runs on teamwork. Every role—from nursing to housekeeping—keeps residents safe, comfortable, and cared for. Wage enhancements must extend to the whole team if we want a system that truly works.

CLAC will keep advocating for fair compensation across the care sector and partnering with government and employers to deliver meaningful, lasting improvements for workers. Because when every member of the care team is valued, everyone benefits—workers, residents, and communities alike.

Raising the Floor—And Reaching Higher

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