Children at Work in Alberta

In: Canadian public policy: Analyse de politiques, Band 32, Heft 4, S. 431-441

Abstract

This paper outlines the issues surrounding a recent move by the Government of Alberta, Canada to lower the accepted working age to 12 years old. The paper places this decision within the wider context of changes in labour standards in North America and internationally. The lowering of the working age not only contravenes the principles of international labour agreements but is also in tension with other social policy aimed at reducing child poverty, increasing school completion rates, and providing effective transitions for youth.