Since the start of COVID-19, front-line food and beverage workers have continued to work, with little public recognition, so that Canadians can continue to eat. So critical are these workers that provincial and federal governments have recognized them as essential.
Despite this, the Risk Recognition Program announced by the Manitoba government on June 2nd excludes food and beverage manufacturing employees. In the face of COVID-19, many of our workers faced difficult choices in deciding to continue coming to work. Failing to acknowledge their brave contribution now will put our food supply at risk if, in a second wave of this pandemic, workers deem the sacrifice to be too great.
Our letter to Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister and Finance Minister Scott Fielding asks that the eligibility criteria for the Risk Recognition Program be re-evaluated to include workers in the food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Manitoba’s food system is essential for food security and for its contribution to the provincial and national economies – our workers play a vital role in ensuring that system continues.
Please contact us with any questions.