“We think the premier should reconsider his position on accepting federal money to help frontline workers with a boost to their wages. We have done a good job in flattening the curve and we’re lucky that to this point we haven’t seen an outbreak in our long- term care homes, but that doesn’t change the fact these workers are under enormous stress, and are providing an invaluable essential service under difficult conditions. 

Things are far from normal. Workers are making the safety and protection of residents their priority at a time when there is additional risk to their personal safety. We should appreciate and value their service. The federal government has provided us the means to do so during this critical time. The province should recognize this and accept the federal monies to provide additional support for these valuable workers. 

Usually we have volunteers and family members who are in these homes, and are helping to provide care for their loved ones. That is not the case anymore and as a result, frontline workers face additional burdens. Many feel stressed and overworked. We need to support them, and we urge the Premier to reconsider his position.”

Gilles LePage

Official Opposition critic for Seniors