Christina Gray, Edmonton-Mill Woods MLA and NDP labour critic. (CHAT News photo)

By Alex McCuaig

Albertans could face difficult choices

Provincial NDP calling on government to provide paid COVID-related sick leave

Aug 14, 2020 | 4:39 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Albertans’ jobs might be legally protected if they are required to take time off because they or a family member they care for are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. But that doesn’t necessarily mean your paycheque will be protected.

B.C., Manitoba and the Yukon are backing a plan for a national paid sick leave of 10 days to cover individuals who may be required to quarantine themselves or to care for a close family member.

Alberta’s NDP labour critic Christina Gray says it’s time this province backs the plan as well.

Gray said whether its an individual who is feeling ill or a young child who is sick who will be required to stay home for up to two weeks, Albertans will be facing difficult choices without a financial backstop.

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

3h ago

POSTAL STRIKE

Donations to Medicine Hat non-profits drop over Canada Post strike

3h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Adopt-A-Rink program still seeking volunteers

11h ago

“What is happening is someone is waking up with a runny nose and has to make that choice between following the directions and staying home or getting their paycheque for that week and being able to buy food for their families and pay rent,” said Gray.

Gray says it was a positive step when the province announced its job protection initiative that will legally ensure Albertans have employment positions held if affected by COVID-19 requirements to stay home.

But it does nothing to support Albertans financially if they don’t qualify for federal COVID-19 relief funding or the program ends, which it’s currently scheduled to do in October.

She says the UCP government is dragging its heels in not joining other Western premiers in supporting the national sick leave program.

“This is key when we are trying to prevent a second wave, when we are trying to make sure that we are controlling COVID-19 to the best of our ability – a key component is people staying home when sick,” said Gray. “But without paid sick days, all of a sudden, you are putting people in potentially financial crisis.”

A statement from Alberta Labour press secretary Adrienne South reads in part, “Albertans who cannot work due to medical reasons such as self-isolation or quarantine may consider applying for federal Employment Insurance benefits.”

South also highlighted employees are eligible for 14 days of unpaid sick leave related to COVID-19 and can take that leave more than once.