November 6, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OTTAWA, ON – A Private Members’ Bill introduced by Member of Parliament Matt Jeneroux is one step closer to becoming law.

On Friday, November 6, Jeneroux’s Bill C-220, An Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (compassionate care leave) was read for a second time and debated in the House of Commons.

The bill proposes to extend Compassionate Care Leave for up to three weeks beyond the death of a loved one. Currently, employees who take the Compassionate Care Leave program to care for terminally ill loved ones must return to work within a few days of their loved one’s death.

“I’ve spoken to many people who have said the current parameters have many people returning to work too soon, and doesn’t leave enough time to grieve and settle affairs,” said Jeneroux.

“We need to ensure that the leave provides sufficient time for these caregivers and their families.”

Bill C-220 builds on a Private Members’ Bill Jeneroux introduced in the Alberta Legislature when he was a Member of the Legislative Assembly from 2012 to 2015. His successful bill made Alberta the final Canadian province to introduce a Compassionate Care Leave.

He introduced this bill in February 2020, but debate was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It will have a second hour of debate in February 2021.

“Compassionate care has helped many families in a time of great leave,” said Jeneroux.

“I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues from all sides of the aisle to get this bill passed to help Canadians.”

-30-