Jasper is a place that prides itself as a progressive, forward thinking community, but allegations this week that some employers may be using child labour for their own narrow self-interest are deplorable and have no place here.
Not only is it morally and ethically reprehensible to hire children who are under 12 years of age without parental consent and a permit from the province, if the allegations are proven true, officials said it would be illegal because there are no valid permits to hire children under 12 anywhere in the province.
It should go without saying why child labour is wrong, but for those who are still living in the 19th century here鈥檚 a reminder.
Studies have shown child labour is harmful to the physical, intellectual and moral development of children, they are more vulnerable to exploitation and it can deprive them of their basic right to an education.
On top of this children are also less likely to know their rights and stand up for themselves when things go awry in the workplace.
In fact, a study by Athabasca University found that children between 12 and 14, who are legally allowed to work in Alberta under strict conditions, are 50 per cent more likely to suffer a workplace injury. The study also found that workplace injuries often go unreported and there is ineffective hazard identification and safety training for this age group.
With approximately 400 job vacancies in town and no one to fill them using child labour might seem like an easy way out, but if the allegations prove true, it would represent a new low for Jasper鈥檚 business community and a practice that should be condemned by the wider community.
Fortunately the province has already taken strides to protect children passing legislation earlier this month that will make it illegal to hire youth under the age of 13, with the exception of artistic endeavours such as a theatre production.
The new rules, which come into effect on January 1, 2018, also lay out a list of 鈥渓ight work鈥� adolescents under the age of 16 will be able to do, such as food service duties like setting up tables, golf caddying or tutoring.
Putting profits before people is no way to do business in Jasper and we urge the powers that be to fully investigate these allegations to put an end to this outdated, immoral and ethically reprehensible practice.
