The business community calls Theresa Oswald's pension pledge another tax that owners can't afford.
On Sunday, Oswald, who is running for the NDP leadership, said she would implement a provincial pension plan for workers not receiving one now, if she becomes premier.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said this could cost both employees and employers up to $1,600 each per year. The organization said it could hurt Manitoba's business climate by either driving retailers away or preventing people from setting up shop here.
Ontario is in the process of implementing a provincial pension plan.
Oswald says all workers deserve to retire with dignity and says she would consult businesses on her proposal that would be done in a "phased in approach."
