VICTORIA (November 24, 2021) – Despite a promise by the Premier not to download the costs of paid sick leave onto businesses still struggling from the strains of the pandemic, today’s announcement by the NDP government confirms they will pass the cost onto them, rather than extending government-funded sick pay beyond the January 1, 2022 deadline.
“We support government’s decision to introduce paid sick leave so no one has to choose between going to work sick or losing wages during this pandemic. However, John Horgan promised on multiple occasions that he would not burden businesses with the costs while they are still struggling with the impacts of the pandemic, and today’s announcement breaks that promise,” said Opposition Critic for Labour Greg Kyllo. “The NDP government is still sitting on $310 million that was allocated for government-funded sick pay, and we’re calling on John Horgan and the NDP to honour his promise not to download those costs onto small businesses when they can least afford it.”
The NDP will instead roll this money into general revenue and force businesses to take on the costs of paid sick leave in just 38 days.
