Minister of Immigration and Labour Jason Copping. (Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko

Alberta introducing three hours of paid leave for workers getting COVID vaccine

Apr 21, 2021 | 3:47 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A financial barrier that has kept some people from getting vaccinated against COVID-19 has been removed.

Minister of Immigration and Labour Jason Copping says the government will be introducing amendments to the Employment Standards Code to provide paid COVID-19 vaccine leave Wednesday for employees who have to leave work to get vaccinated.

“By providing choice without consequence, we continue to protect the lives and livelihoods of all Albertans. Nobody should have to choose between getting vaccinated and putting food on the table and with this legislation, nobody will have to.”

If it passes first reading, it will come into effect immediately.

It would give workers the equivalent of three hours of paid work.

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“As with other leaves, Albertans cannot be fired or disciplined by their employer for taking this leave. Leave can be used twice if Albertans are getting a two-dose vaccine. This leave applies to full-time and part-time workers, regardless of the length of service.”

A spokesperson with the Ministry of Immigration and Labour confirmed to LNN that this program will not work retroactively, meaning that if you have already taken time off of work to get vaccinated, you will not be able to apply for this paid leave program.

More information on COVID-19 supports in Alberta here.

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