EDMONTON - Public Interest Alberta stands alongside the Health Sciences Association of Alberta and all who are taking a stand for health care and workers’ rights to demand paid sick days for all workers.
“Alberta needs sick days for all workers in the province,” said Bradley Lafortune, Executive Director of Public Interest Alberta, “It’s essential for public health and safety that a sick worker can stay home to avoid further stress to our health care system. And that worker should not be stressed about money if they need to take care of themselves.”
The federal government and the provincial government of British Columbia have both implemented paid sick days in response to the pandemic.
“It is unconscionable that we are over two years into a pandemic without these essential protections,” said Lafortune. “With a simple change to the Employment Standards Code, the UCP government could take action right now to demonstrate their commitment to Albertans’ health, safety, and well-being. But sadly, they continue to fail Albertans as their party remains in chaos and without leadership.”
“We have seen time and time again how willing the UCP is to institute sweeping measures to enrich their corporate friends,” said Lafortune. “But when it comes to making decisions that will protect working Albertans, they’ve left Albertans behind every time. Nobody should be left making the decision between paying rent and getting their coworkers and other members of the public sick.”
To show your support for paid sick days for all Albertans, please attend this evening’s rally at the Legislature or send a letter to your MLA.
