MAHCP members,
The COVID-19 pandemic is ramping up as expected in Manitoba. All MAHCP members are under incredible stress right now, and we know the situation will get worse before it gets better. I want to thank you for your commitment to keeping yourselves, your patients and your colleagues safe in this difficult time.
We are now seeing confirmed cases of community transmission in Manitoba, and we’re beginning to see front-line health care staff, including a small number of MAHCP members, testing positive for COVID-19. This isn’t cause for panic. We know health care professionals are at greater risk, and that’s why we’ve been fighting hard on your behalf for the Employer and the Manitoba Government to step up and make sure you’re protected and supported. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to be listening.
MAHCP has called on the Manitoba Government to provide paid leave for members who have to miss work because they have to self-isolate or have unavoidable child care issues. For those who contract COVID-19, we’ve called on Government to provide presumptive WCB coverage – you’re at risk because of the work you do, so they should assume you contracted the virus at work unless proven otherwise.
We’re asking MAHCP members to add your voice to these demands by emailing the Premier and Minister of Health at premier@leg.gov.mb.ca and minhsal@leg.gov.mb.ca with this email content, or you can write your own email and share your concerns and calls for action.
If you want to go one step further, you can write or call your MLA:
Step 1) Identify your MLA by typing in your home address at this website.
Step 2) Look up your MLA alphabetically by last name here for their email address and/or phone number.
The more members they hear from, the more they will have to listen to us. Meanwhile, we will continue pushing for these and other measures, including adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), to make sure you’re properly protected and supported.
As always, please stay safe and let us know if you have any questions or concerns by contacting your Labour Relations Officer or info@mahcp.ca.
In solidarity,
Bob Moroz, MAHCP President