Administrative Law (Politics & Public Administration) Essay

This is a single essay mid-term (1500-2000 words). Please ensure that you not only state but
explain your viewpoint.

The Ontario government announced in its 2007 budget that it would increase the
minimum wage incrementally, the last hike to occur in March 2010. In March 2009,
Premier McGuinty met with business leaders in a private, behind closed doors
meeting. News of this leaked out revealing that he stated that he might cancel the
remaining increases given economic conditions. Pressed by reporters to explain his
apparent flip flop, and shamed by the lack of transparency, he reversed himself again
saying this:
“When we talk about the minimum wage, we have to ask ourselves what it is that we
owe both our workers and employers. I think clearly we owe them fairness. Our
commitment was to get the $10.25 an hour one year from now and we will honour
that commitment.”

Discuss the procedural fairness issues arising in this scenario including both the legal
definition and the political implications for democratic governance.
Relax, think creatively and take this opportunity to ponder concepts which are
critical not just in administrative law, that is, in relation to governmental
decision making, but also in the context of the broader political, social and
economic landscape.

General Instructions
This mid-term essay has been designed to provide you with an opportunity to
critically reflect upon the course content and apply it to a real world example. The
assignment is intended to also encourage learners to develop research skills that are
necessary in this field.
To maximize opportunities for learning, please review the content covered in the first
weeks of the course and consider additional resources –> (e.g., legislation, case
law, scholarly books,websites, or journal articles).