The School of Public Policy has been working years trying to develop effective public policies designed to alleviate poverty, end homelessness and increase the employmentand life prospects of persons with disabilities. The school works closely with government and community organizations at the “front-line” of these battles so that the public policy solutions we suggest are practical, focused and effective.It is in that context that I am troubled with suggestions coming from the new NDP government in Alberta that will increase the provincial minimum wage from $10.20 to $15.