Why are wages so low!!!

[rmurphy]

I know on job sites a common discussion is the low wage electricans make on the Island. I'm interested to hear why other people think they have stayed so low compared to other parts of the country. Here's another trick question...what is the average wage for a journeymen electrican on the Island

[twh]

Wages for electricians, everywhere, are based on supply and demand. As long as an employer can hire an electrician for a low wage, why would he pay more? Perhaps, a better question is "why do electricians on the island stay at a place where the wages are so low."

[electric-ed]

Just for your information, the "Island" that millvalemurph is referring to is Prince Edward Island.
It would be interesting to hear from electricians across the country, and even the US, about wages in their area.

Ed

[rmurphy]

Ed thanks for clearing up which Island I am on. I too would like to hear about wages and even work conditions in other provinces, down in the states and in other countries. For those of you who are not from THE ISLAND the supply and demand agruement doesn't pass the test. You see the demand for men is high the supply is low but still wages stay quite low. Prehaps we need legislation on the ratio of Journeyman to apprentices or a set minimum wage for the trade. What do people think?

[Baldy]

Supply and demand is certainly the main factor in determining wages. When the construction sector is busy over a long period of time wages can grow quite fast but when work slows over a long period wages can recede.
In our area there are many non-union contractors who employ non-certified laborers to do electrical work. This also drives down the pay for a certified Journeyman ar registered apprentice because not as many of them are required. This practice is frowned upon by other contractors but the Department of Labour does not seem to be properly manned to visit work sites and check credentials. This also creates many people who have learned the basics of electrical work without serving a proper apprenticeship. These people then do small electrical jobs which should be done by a professional. This also drives down wages for smaller contractors as they try to compete with these 'tailgate' installers.