As the province sees higher numbers of COVID-19 cases, Dominion workers look to their employer for added security.

The union representing Dominion employees is asking for paid sick leave for those who must self-isolate due to the latest COVID-19 outbreak.

President of Unifor local 597, Carolyn Wrice says the majority of Dominion staff are part-time, therefore missed shifts directly impact their income.

On top of the potential financial blow she says, many union members are fearful about going to work, now that the more contagious B117 variant—first identified in the UK—has been identified in the metro area.

Wrice also believes staff are entitled to the $2 “pandemic pay” increase that was temporarily in place during the first wave of the pandemic. Dominion parent company Loblaws removed the bump-up in June of last year, which triggered a months-long strike.

She feels the essential workers she represents deserve better and she has a message for Loblaws.

Wrice says it’s time for the employer to step up to the plate here and treat employees with decency. She stresses that staff need as much protection as possible so they can continue to attend work—which she points out sustains profits for Loblaws.