Canada’s Prime Minister says he’ll be speaking with provinces regarding sick days.
Justin Trudeau said the government wants to ensure workers have access to 10 days of paid sick leave every year.
“To come out of this crisis, our country needs workers, people like you more than ever. Our government knows that, and we know that you deserve to be treated fairly on the jobs,” he said.
The news comes shortly after NDP leader Jagmeet Singh announced he would withhold support if the federal government doesn’t deliver paid sick leave and increased support for people living with disabilities.
“This is something that I spoke with the leader of the NDP, Jagmeet Singh, yesterday. Nobody should have to choose between taking a day off work due to illness, or being able to pay their bills,” he said.
Trudeau said the government will also consider mechanisms for the longer term to support workers with sick leave.
“Just like nobody should have to choose between staying home with COVID-19 symptoms or being able to afford rent or groceries,” he said.
