Ontario mayors call on governments to implement paid sick leave for low-income workers

 

At its final meeting of the term on Friday, Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM) called for paid sick leave to help support low-income workers.

OBCM, which represents the mayors of Ontario’s 29 largest cities, passed a motion calling for the provincial and federal governments to immediately implement a paid sick leave program that would prioritize those who continue to go to work and provide essential goods and services during the pandemic.

Barrie mayor Jeff Lehman brought forth the motion, which was supported by Mississauga mayor Bonnie Crombie, Brampton mayor Patrick Brown, and Toronto mayor John Tory among others.

“Ontario’s Big City Mayors express their strong belief that nobody should have to choose between going to work sick, and losing their job,” OBCM said. “Paid sick leave is needed immediately as a measure to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of essential workers.”

In the same meeting, OBCM also approved a number of motions “to advance key public policy and to strengthen the organization internally.”

Lehman and Crombie have been confirmed as the group’s Chair and Vice Chair for the 2021-22 term, which began on Friday, November 27.

"I want to thank Mayor Guthrie for his service to our Caucus and for showing incredible leadership through these volatile and uncertain times," said Crombie.

"There are still significant challenges ahead of us, as COVID-19 continues to grip all of our communities. In my new role as Vice-Chair, I am committed to working closely with Mayor Lehman to continue driving change and securing support for Ontario's big cities."