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DEPUTATION BY MICHAEL SPEERS ON BEHALF OF $15 AND FAIRNESS BARRIE REGARDING MOTION 21-G-057, PAID SICK DAYS
Michael Speers provided a Deputation in support of motion 21-G-057 concerning Paid Sick Days. He advised that in his opinion, paid sick days is an idea that is long overdue. Mr. Speers discussed the Provincial Government’s responsibility to make changes through the Employment Standards Act, but that he believes it is important for all levels of government to support paid sick days.
Mr. Speers provided on overview on the current situation in Canada with more than half of workers not having permanent paid emergency leave and that it is an even worse situation for workers in low wage jobs. He advised that paid sick days have always been a major issue but noted that he felt that it has become even more critical with COVID-19 with the restrictions being lifted by the Province and putting the health of more workers at risk.
Mr. Speers discussed the Canadian Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) that he feels is being pushed by the Province as the reason not to implement paid sick days. He provided his rationale associated with his opinion that the CRSB is inadequate with workers needing to lose more than 50% of their work in a week to qualify, that it takes time to process, it does not cover full wages, and has quality and accessibility concerns. Mr. Speers advised that he believes giving workers improved benefits like paid sick days is good for business, workers are likely more committed to the business, will stay longer, and that the workplace itself is healthier as people have the financial freedom to stay home when they are sick.
Mr. Speers suggested that Council add a further request to the Province to provide seven (7) permanent universal and employer provided days, plus 14 additional days during public health emergencies. He discussed his views that during pandemic highlighting what crucial workers mean to the economy, the inequalities in the system and the gaping holes, supports and entitlements that so many workers face daily, a decline in wages, and thatemployer provided benefits have been slashed. Mr. Speers provided his opinion that the City needs to walk the walk when it comes to how workers are treated, and that the City is a real leader and should lead by example of how employers should treat their workers.
In conclusion, Mr. Speers noted that workers deserve better, they deserve paid sick days and that he hopes Council will agree and support this motion.