As of Feb. 1, Albertans have the ability to take time off from work to care for a gravely ill family member without worrying about losing their job.
Provisions for a “compassionate care” leave within Alberta's Employment Standards Code were brought in by the passage of Bill 203, which received its third and final reading in May 2013.
Albertans now have the ability to take up to eight weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave from work to care for an ill family member. The leave is similar to taking maternity leave, in that the employee can return to the same or a similar position when the leave is over.
“This has allowed people to take some time off work and look after their loved one and at the same time know that when they are finished doing their compassionate leave their job is waiting for them,” said Bonnyville-Cold Lake MLA Genia Leskiw. “I think it is great. A person doesn't need the extra stress of wondering ‘am I going to have a job when this is all over with?' They don't need that. They have enough on their plate to worry about.
The compassionate care leave does come with some guidelines.
Employees must have worked at least 52 weeks for their employers to be eligible for the leave and must provide their employer with a certificate signed by the attending physician regarding the grave condition of the family member and the need for care.
Workers are also given the option of splitting the possible eight weeks into two sections, but must take the time off within a 26-week period.
Some employees who take compassionate care leave may be eligible to get six weeks of Employment Insurance benefits.
“No one's job should be in jeopardy when they take time off to care for a loved one. Compassionate care leave supports families when they're at their most vulnerable,” said Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of jobs, skills, training and labour.
According to Leskiw, the Bill was easily passed when it was brought to the Alberta Legislature.
“It is a bill that is going to help a lot of people,” said Leskiw. “I don't think anybody was against it. It was definitely one of those things that crosses all political boundaries. It is dealing with what is right. I am very proud of the government for this bill.”
