Nova Scotia first introduced a paid sick-leave program to deal with the pandemic that was in effect in the summer and reinstated from December to March.
The program covered employee wages, including self-employed people, up to a maximum of $20 per hour or $160 per day, with a weekly maximum of $640.
With that program now over, NDP Leader Gary Burrill says Nova Scotians no longer have the tools needed to live with COVID-19. “One of the tools people need to protect themselves is the ability to stay home when sick without fear of the financial implications,” Burril said.
Burrill asked Premier Houston during Friday’s question period if there were plans to bring the program back.
Premier Houston responded by saying there is still a federal paid sick-leave program available to Nova Scotians and work on a permanent provincial solution is underway.
“I want to assure the member and all members of this House and all Nova Scotians that the work the (labour) minister is doing on this file is tireless, working with national colleagues, and we are looking for opportunities to support those Nova Scotians who are in need of paid sick leave,” Houston said.
“We don’t know what form that will take Mr. Speaker but this is a serious question and I will assure the member that we are looking seriously at what we can do to support those Nova Scotians.”
When pressed by Burrill for a timeframe the Premier was unwilling to provide one.
