Hundreds expected to demand Paid Sick Days for all Alberta Workers at today’s legislature rally hosted by Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE).

Edmonton (26 May 2022) — The Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE) is calling on those who support access to paid sick time for all workers to come out to a rally on Wednesday, May 25, at 4 pm. 

Workers being forced to work when sick instead of caring for themselves

“Thousands upon thousands of Alberta workers get no paid sick time” said Mike Parker, President of Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE). “This means they are often forced to decide between taking care of their health or working so they can put food on the table for their families.”  

“This impossible decision, and the precarious financial situation so many workers find themselves in, means that going to work sick is becoming more and more common,” added Leanne Alfaro, HSAA Vice-President. “This puts workers and everyone they encounter at risk.” 

Several speakers will outline the benefits to workers and all Albertans that comes with ensuring people don’t have to choose between their health and getting paid. They will also encourage everyone to sign a petition, so no Alberta worker must make this choice.

Employers won't do the right thing

“It’s unfair to ask workers to decide between their health and getting paid,” commented Alfaro. “Paid sick days for all Alberta workers is a moral obligation we have to the people who care for us and the people who are struggling to get by.” 

Parker concluded, “We cannot leave it up to employers to do the right thing on their own. Workers need to know they will be taken care of, so they can continue to take care of all of us.”