Ford needs to stop the spread and stand up for workers

July 6, 2022

TORONTO — Ontario Greens Deputy Leader, Abhjieet Manay, released the following statement on the three paid sick days that are set to expire at the end of the month:

“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us many things – and one very clear lesson was that when someone feels sick they should stay home.

With the three paid sick days set to expire at the end of the month and experts warning of a summer wave, by refusing to extend or expand access to paid sick days, Ford is signaling that he doesn’t care about protecting the health of all workers.

The Ontario Greens have been calling on the Ford government since the early days of the pandemic to implement 10 paid sick days.

We know that Ontario’s low wage workers, racialized and immigrant populations suffered higher rates of Covid-19 infections – and a lack of paid sick days is one of the most obvious policies that led to this unjust outcome.  

It’s time for Ford to actually stand up for workers by providing 10 paid sick days while providing support for small businesses to help institute this crucial policy.

Forcing low-wage employees to choose between their health and their income – especially during an affordability crisis – is shameful public health policy.”

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