An update regarding COVID-19 from SEIU Healthcare President Sharleen Stewart:
I wanted to share an update with you about our involvement with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
We are in constant contact with both the Federal and Provincial governments, and are a key stakeholder in many working groups and committees aimed at addressing this ever-changing and evolving situation.
During times like these, frontline healthcare workers are relied upon more than ever. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the care and compassion you continue to provide on a daily basis.
In all of our discussions, our number one priority is the health and safety of you and your family, and the well being of the people you care for. We are working hard to ensure that you are protected, health-wise and financially, and that all healthcare workers are being treated fairly and equally, regardless of who their employer is or which sector they work in.
To achieve this, we are demanding that the Ontario government stops issuing recommendations, and instead works with us to create clear and mandatory directions to all healthcare providers. Without that much-needed consistency, frontline healthcare workers, their families, and the people they care for will continue to be put at risk.
We are also working with other unions toward achieving these demands. You can read more about that by clicking here.
In the coming days, we will be issuing further communications, including a frequently asked questions document that should help provide you more clarity.
I also want to remind you that if you feel that your work has become unsafe or that your rights have been violated, immediately contact your union representative, steward or Member Resource Centre (1-877-672-7348).
Once again, thank you for your patience, and for your incredible dedication to your patients, clients and residents. We will keep you updated in the days and weeks ahead.
Sincerely,
Sharleen Stewart
President, SEIU Healthcare