There is no singular action that is going to stop the harm COVID-19 is causing. A multifaceted approach that follows the science is crucial.

Paid sick days is one critical piece missing from the puzzle.

The Government of Ontario has the power to change that. With the unfolding COVID crisis in Ontario, this petition calls upon the Government of Ontario to legislate provincial paid sick days.

The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit that is offered through the federal government is NOT the same as accessible paid sick days that encourages workers to take a day when they need it. Three ways it is inaccessible to workers:

1. You need to take at least 50% of the week off to qualify. This discourages people from taking a day-off from the moment they start to feel unwell.

2. You don't get paid your job rate. It pays $500 per week, which works out to less than the minimum wage. 

3. You receive it retroactively. The payment is not built into your regular paycheck and there can be a lag time. 

While the above might not be disincentives for some, it is showing to be so for those hardest hit by the pandemic and most in need of the support. These are the people keeping Ontario running. Essential workers in warehouses and manufacturing that are enabling people at home to safely order online and have their goods delivered. 

The decision to close outdoor playgrounds was reversed because it wasn't backed up by fact. Fact is -- covid transmission is happening in work places and experts have said paid sick days are needed to change that. 

The government needs to act now and do one of the things that can make a real difference. 

Some articles to reference: 

https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/infuriating-renewed-calls-for-essential-workers-to-receive-paid-sick-days-as-third-wave-threatens-health-care-system-1.5394001​

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/why-doctors-advocates-are-calling-for-permanent-paid-sick-days-for-canadian-workers-1.5384530​

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/paid-sick-leave-cbc-explains-1.5980362