The minimum wage in Prince Edward Island will be increased to $10.20 cents an hour as of June 1 and to $10.35 an hour as of October 1, says Environment, Labour and Justice Minister Janice Sherry.

“The new rates take into account both the interests of employers and employees,” said Minister Sherry. “As well, the increase reflects a stronger and more buoyant economy and greater confidence in our prospects as a province.”

The new rates were approved by the provincial cabinet based on an annual review and recommendation by the Employment Standards Board. The Board held consultations with employers and employees last fall.

The current minimum wage is $10 an hour. It has been in effect since April 1 of 2012. The new rates are in line with those of the other Atlantic provinces. The current rate in New Brunswick is $10 an hour, it is $10.40 in Nova Scotia for experienced workers and $9.90 for those lacking experience, and the rate in Newfoundland and Labrador will increase to $10.25 on October 1.

The minimum wage has increased from $7.50 an hour in 2007, up by 38 percent.