Workers need to isolate today, not 14 days from now

As you may recall, we held a virtual press conference last week to demand essential protections for essential workers. Precarious work is a health hazard always, but it is especially dangerous during public health emergencies like the one we are in.

During the presser, we heard from frontline workers in the health, grocery, and sanitation sectors who laid out the urgent need for paid sick days, decent pay, and safe workplaces.

To keep mounting pressure for these key protections, share this graphic on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

Our Medical Opinion

As medical professionals, we are extremely concerned that many essential workers, including full-time personal support workers and grocery workers have no paid sick days. 

While the Federal government has brought in the Canada Emergency Response Benefit as an income support for people who have to self-isolate, they need to be without income for 14 consecutive days to be eligible.

As health professionals, we know that those who have symptoms should stay home the same day they have symptoms if we really want to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Without paid sick days, essential workers are faced with the impossible decision of choosing between paying for food and bills - or staying home without pay. This is why we will continue to call on Premier Ford to bring in 7 permanent paid sick days, plus 14 paid sick days during public health emergencies. 

Our Voice in the Media 

Last week we had major success bringing the voice of essential workers to the media, where they reiterated the need for basic protections like paid sick days to protect public health. 

"The people running Ontario’s clinics, nursing homes and grocery stores during the COVID-19 pandemic “deserve more than a ‘thank you,’” one group of front-line workers said Thursday. 

“The government refuses to implement basic paid sick leave protections for the very same people they deem heroes,” Carolina Jimenez told reporters at a virtual press conference."

Read the HuffPost piece here and share across your platforms.

"The workers included grocery clerks, cleaners, nurses and shelter employees. All spoke of working in a patchwork system that leaves them stressed about catching and spreading COVID-19, and still working even when sick — sometimes for less than minimum wage."

Retweet the Hamilton Spectator piece here.

Our advocacy is only possible with your dedication and hard work. Thank you very much for your continuous support in our mission for decent work for all.