Statement - Minister of Labour provides an update on ongoing engagement with provincial and territorial counterparts and leaders of labour and industry to keep Canadian workers safe Français
GATINEAU, QC, May 21, 2020 /CNW/ - The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Labour, issued the following statement:
"Governments in Canada have taken wide-ranging steps to support businesses, protect workers from the impact of COVID‑19, and ensure the economy continues to stay as strong as possible through and beyond the pandemic.
"Canadians have been steadfast in our efforts to flatten the curve. As parts of our economy gradually reopen, workers' health and safety remains a top priority. Whether in times of crisis or in regular times, everyone deserves a safe workplace.
"The Government of Canada recognizes that strong and continued collaboration with provincial and territorial governments, as well as with stakeholders in labour and industry, is key to protecting Canadians and the economy. During my recent engagements with these partners, we discussed the steps the federal government, provinces and territories are taking within their jurisdictions to promote the safety of workers. We also discussed the importance of coordination on occupational health and safety guidance across the country as some workplaces reopen and more workers begin to go back. Partners discussed how high-quality, consistent occupational health and safety guidance can help ensure workers feel confident about their own safety, and support employers in their efforts to minimize risks.
"I also took the opportunity to speak to colleagues about the critical role played by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). The CCOHS provides a range of evidence-based tools and resources, developed in consultation with the Public Health Agency of Canada, to help workplaces operate safely during this pandemic. This important work is helping employers to jointly develop with their employees plans, processes and resources adapted to their specific needs in order to ensure the safety of their workplaces.
"Governments along with key partners underscored their commitment to continued collaboration, and to taking the necessary steps to support workers, businesses and our economy during this unprecedented time. "
SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada
For media enquiries, please contact: Dustin Fitzpatrick, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Filomena Tassi, P.C., M.P., Minister of Labour, 819-654-5611, [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]
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