Alghabra tables Private Member’s Bill to Protect Employees 

Ottawa – Today, Omar Alghabra, Liberal Member of Parliament for Mississauga-Erindale, tabled bill C-409 entitled An Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (illness or injury). This bill would amend the Canada Labour Code to extend the period during which an employee may be absent from work due to illness or non-work related injury without being dismissed, suspended, laid off, demoted or disciplined by an employer.   

Under the current code, employees are only covered for up to twelve weeks should they fall seriously ill or incur a serious non-work related injury. Currently, such employees could be dismissed, suspended, laid off or disciplined if they have not returned to work even if they are still ill after the 12-week period. 

“This bill is intended to protect a small number of employees who may not have a traditional benefits package and are governed by the Canada Labour Code," said Alghabra. "If passed, this modification will help sick or injured employees focus on their recovery, with peace of mind that their employment is not in jeopardy.” 

This proposed legislation is the outcome of a discussion Mr. Alghabra had with one of his constituents where he was surprised to learn that the code had a narrow protection for some employees. This proposal does not increase any financial burden on the government or the employer. Moreover, it does not impact Employment Insurance benefits or restrict employers from finding temporary replacements. It is only intended to protect employees from losing their jobs while they are on sick leave. Most benefits packages protect employees indefinitely while they are on sick leave. 

"I am pleased to have had the opportunity to table this bill," said Alghabra. "I hope it draws attention to this matter and that all federal parties adopt this proposal."