I rise today to inform the people of Newfoundland and Labrador that on May 4, 2007 the Provincial Government amended the Labour Standards Regulations to enhance provincial job protection for workers who wish to access the federal compassionate care benefit to provide care for terminally ill family members.

This amendment builds on measures taken in 2004 when the Provincial Government amended the Labour Standards Act to ensure job protection for workers who needed to access the compassionate care benefit to care for an immediate family member.

The steps we took at that time ensured that workers accessing the compassionate care benefit were provided the same legislated protection from being disciplined, demoted or dismissed that existed for those accessing maternity and parental leave benefits.

In June 2006, the federal government broadened its definition of family member for which workers can access the benefit so that they are able to provide critical care, not just for immediate family, but extended family and close relations.

Our amendment to the Labour Standards Regulations mirrors this change in federal Employment Insurance Regulations.

The Provincial Government recognizes the valuable contribution made by workers in this province. By extending this additional measure of job protection, the Provincial Government has taken a significant step forward to protect the rights of working people in Newfoundland and Labrador.

I believe this change is particularly significant for the women in our workforce who are more likely to answer the call to provide care for those who are critically ill.

2007 05 22                                                     1:55 p.m.