By Sarah Klein
(Domestic violence image via Shutterstock)
WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is ensuring job protection and paid leave for victims of domestic violence with proposed new legislation.
The province will introduce changes to the Employment Standards Code to allow victims to take leave for long-term illness and injury, and extend the length of leave for compassionate care.
“When there is violence at home, you shouldn’t have to worry about holding onto your job as you escape and rebuild,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Erna Braun.
“This proposed first-in-Canada legislation would ensure that victims of domestic violence have financial security, job protection and flexibility to take time away from work to recover from violence.”
The changes would allow up to 10 days to intermittently or in consecutive days, as needed, and an additional continuous period of leave of up to 17 weeks.
These proposed leaves would be available in each 52-week period, with up to five days of leave being paid.
