On Tuesday, June 16, 2020, the members at North York General Hospital organized a very successful rally to demand Pandemic Pay for all healthcare workers.

SEIU Healthcare condemns all forms of racism, hate and violence. We stand in support with all Black, Indigenous and racialized peoples who are feeling pain, fear, anger, and trauma due to the recent blatant acts of racism and racially-motivated police violence in the United States.

On April 25, 2020, you announced Pandemic Pay for eligible frontline healthcare workers, effective for 16 weeks from April 24, 2020 until August 13, 2020.

Since the Ontario government announced their Pandemic Pay at the end of April, we have been in constant discussions with them regarding positions that were excluded, including MDRD, hospital ward and unit clerks, clerical staff, and recreational staff/activity coordinators.

I want to start by thanking you once again for the critical role you are playing during this COVID-19 pandemic. The dedication you show to your patients, clients and residents is an inspiration to the world.

Richmond Hill, Ontario (March 23, 2020) — It was confirmed today that a frontline healthcare worker at Markhaven Home for Seniors, located in Markham, has tested positive for COVID-19 after the long-term care home first learned of a resident with the virus last week.

The feeling of stress and anxiety is a totally normal reaction amidst The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. During this time of great uncertainty, fear and the immense pressure that comes with working on the frontline during a global pandemic, we must always be sure to prioritize our mental health and wellbeing.

SEIU Healthcare continues to monitor the changing situation involving the COVID-19 pandemic. While the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has stated that the risk of a mass outbreak remains low in Canada, the Union is taking a number of preventive measures to help limit the spread of COVID-19.