Ontario moves to strengthen job security for family caregivers

Minister of Labour Linda Jeffrey
News Release

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Ontario will be taking steps to protect the jobs of working Ontarians who need to care for seriously ill or injured loved ones.

The McGuinty Government intends to introduce legislation today that would, if passed, recognize the importance of family, job security and would build on the existing Family Medical Leave to provide up to 8 weeks of unpaid job leave for employees to provide care and support to a sick or injured family member.

Whether it is a young child spending time in the hospital or an elderly parent suffering a broken hip, caregivers would be able to focus their attention on what matters most — providing care and support to their loved one — without the fear of losing their job.

Ontario is also calling on its federal partners to extend Employment Insurance to those who take advantage of Family Caregiver Leave, just as they do when Ontarians take Family Medical Leave.

The proposed legislation is part of the McGuinty government’s commitment to ensure that families across Ontario have the support they need when they need it most.

QUOTES

“The one thing working Ontarians need most when it comes to caring for seriously ill or injured family members is the time to be with their loved one. This proposed Family Caregiver Leave is a matter of compassion, and the right thing to do for Ontario families.”
– Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Labour

“When a family member is sick, home is where they want to be. Being cared for at home can enhance recovery from illness or injury, reduce strain on our hospitals, and is overall more comfortable for patients. The proposed Family Caregiver Leave allows our government to support caregivers so that they in turn can support their loved one.”
– Deb Matthews
Minister of Health & Long-term Care

“Aging at home is important to many seniors who want to be with their families. This leave would help more elderly Ontarians recover from injury or illness at home by giving employees time off from work to care for loved ones.”
– Joe Dickson
Parliamentary Assistant, Ontario Seniors’ Secretariat

QUICK FACTS

 The proposed legislation would, if passed, be separate from the current Family Medical Leave which is available when a family member has a serious medical condition with a significant risk of death occurring within 26 weeks.

 A doctor’s note would be required to qualify for Family Caregiver Leave.

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