Compassionate Care Benefit Bill Introduced

Nova Scotians will have more time to spend with and care for loved ones who are gravely ill.

The provincial government introduced changes today, Oct. 1, to the Labour Standards Code in a bill titled the Compassionate Care Leave Bill. The changes provide up to eight weeks of unpaid leave to employees who wish to provide palliative care to a parent, child or spouse.

"We want to ensure informal caregivers have the support they require to care for their family members in their time of need," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash. "This benefit will allow informal caregivers to spend time away from work without fear of losing their jobs."

In January, the First Ministers' Accord on Health Care Renewal outlined a federal initiative that would allow a six-week compassionate care benefit, available through the Employment Insurance program. The Feb. 18 federal budget announced the establishment of the paid benefit, which will come into effect on Jan. 1, 2004. The provincial bill complements the federal initiative. Nova Scotia employees will be able to access the eight-week unpaid leave benefit as soon as the bill is proclaimed.

The Compassionate Care Leave Bill supports the spirit of the First Ministers' Accord on Health Care Renewal (February 2003) and complements the federal government's commitment to provide six weeks.

"Through this bill, families will be able to rely on the government to provide some support when it is most needed," said Mr. Morash.

Beginning on Oct. 2, more information on the compassionate care legislation will be available by calling 1-888-315-0110 or visiting the Environment and Labour Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/enla/labstand .