TORONTO -- The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development office released the announcement that they will be extending its Workers Income protection Benefit program, which will provide paid sick days, until July 31, 2022.
This represents the government’s goal to continue to support workers and employer, keeping workers safe, and ensuring they so not lose pay if they need to miss work for reasons related to COVID-19.
As a result, employees can continue to access this paid leave to get tested, vaccinated, self-isolate, or care for a family member.
The Ministry also indicated that, should the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit be extended, workers in Ontario will have access to “the most generous paid sick days program in Canada.” said the Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, Monte McNaughton.
It was reported that nearly a quarter-million workers have already used this program, which is the first and most comprehensive in the country, for paid time off work,” said. He further commented, “Our government is working for workers and ensuring they have the support they need to keep themselves and their families safe.”
To date, the program has helped more than 235,000 people stay safe without worrying about losing pay. On average employees have put in claims for two days.
Additionally, the province is taking action to protect jobs and businesses by extending temporary changes to the Employment Standards Act that prevent temporary layoffs of non-unionized employees from becoming unwanted terminations.
This would result in triggering payments and forcing businesses to close.
The Ministry sees this as their effort to continue supporting workers and businesses as they build the foundation of Ontario’s economic strength, while protecting their progress in the fight against COVID-19.
