Today, the Government of British Columbia took the first steps toward giving workers with up to three hours of paid leave to get their COVID-19 vaccine.
The legislation is expected to pass, and once that happens it will ensure that no one will be forced to lose pay if they need time away from work to get vaccinated.
If it does pass, the Employment Standards Act will be amended and the effective date will be retroactive to today.
"We know that many workers can't afford to lose pay, and we need to make sure that it's as easy as possible for workers to receive a COVID-19 vaccine," said Harry Bains, minister of labour.
"This paid leave will ensure that no one will have to choose between losing pay and getting their doses of the COVID-19 vaccine."
Kim Novak, president of UFCW 1518, said that the labour union was pleased with today’s news.
“This is a big step in the right direction and a big win for workers, especially those who have been working on the front lines throughout this pandemic,” she said.
“They have been hit hard and no longer must worry about having their paycheque deducted for getting their vaccines.”
Before making this decision and introducing the legislation today, BC’s Ministry of Labour consulted with the business community, labour organizations and others.
