The Alberta Chamber of Commerce released a statement Monday Mar.14 calling on the provincial government to halt minimum wage increases.

The report from the A.C.C says the minimum wage increase implemented in October has contributed to negative labour market outcomes.

CEO of Okotoks & District Chamber Cheryl Actemichuk says the recent wage increase has been affecting the local labour market.

"We have such a a large retail sector, we know that there are companies that have laid people off," she says. "Number one because the economy is slow but because they know that $11.20 an hour is not reasonable for them."

She says the wage increase doesn't just affect businesses.

"It results in longer lineups at the check-outs, higher prices at the check-outs, it affects the consumer right:"

The A.C.C. says a general policy of 'do no harm' by government right now could be the best approach to helping improve labour market outcomes for all Albertans. Something Actemichuk agrees with.

"It has such a ripple effect of the rest of the economy, especially in Alberta, where right now the economy isn't doing so great because of the oil and gas. Then you add this on provincially, and its just a disaster."

To view the survey results click here.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com