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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

After a year of following safety protocols, B.C.’s workforce still only getting promises about paid time off to recover from the COVID virus


Yesterday, on social media, NDP government Labour Minister Harry Bains stated, “Keeping workers safe, while reducing risks to businesses, is our priority.”

 

Meanwhile in the legislature, Premier Horgan, after a full year of promising to implement sick pay for workers with COVID-19 or those having to self-isolate due to possible infections, once again pledged that it will be “happening in the days ahead.”

 

“While B.C.’s Conservatives welcome the initiative towards providing time off for workers to receive their COVID vaccine, let’s be clear about one thing,” stated party leader Trevor Bolin this morning. “The NDP are offering more incentives for vaccinations than they are for those, who after a year of following guidelines and safety protocols, still can’t get paid time off to recover if they become infected with the virus -- before they’ve had a chance to receive their vaccine.”

 

Speaking from his home in Fort St. John, the Conservative leader continued, “I am asking for the Premier, along with Health Minister Adrian Dix and Labour Minister Harry Bains, to recognize the very real hardships being faced by B.C. families due to record breaking COVID cases. 

 

The time for promises and passing the buck to the federal government must end. When Members of the Legislature Assembly return following next week’s constituency break, we hope government will indeed follow through on their latest promise to bring forward legislation for a paid sick leave program.”

 

Bolin concluded his thoughts by stating, “While I understand how important this vaccine is for people hoping for a way back to normal, let’s not also forget the steps needed in order to make that future safe, secure and sustainable for British Columbians.”

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