Women in Alberta earn 64 cents for every dollar men make annually, according to a report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA). This makes Alberta the province with the largest gender pay gap in Canada.
Report findings
The CCPA report analyzed earnings data across Canadian provinces and found that Alberta's gender pay gap is the widest. Women in the province earn significantly less than men, highlighting persistent economic inequality. The national average gender pay gap is narrower, but Alberta stands out as the worst performer.
According to the CCPA, the gap is driven by factors including occupational segregation, part-time work, and discrimination. The report calls for policy measures to address the disparity, such as pay transparency and affordable childcare.
Impact on women
The 64-cent figure means that for every dollar a man earns in Alberta, a woman earns only 64 cents. Over a lifetime, this gap results in substantial lost income for women, affecting their savings, pensions, and economic security. The report emphasizes that the gap is even wider for Indigenous women, women of colour, and women with disabilities.
“This is not just a statistic; it represents real financial hardship for women and their families,” said a CCPA spokesperson. “We need urgent action to close this gap.”
Broader context
Alberta's gender pay gap has been a persistent issue. Previous studies have also shown the province lagging behind others in gender equality. The CCPA report comes amid growing calls for pay equity legislation and better support for working women.
The report also notes that while some provinces have made progress, Alberta has not improved significantly. The province's economy, heavily reliant on male-dominated industries like oil and gas, contributes to the disparity.
