Temporary Pandemic Pay: understanding who gets it who doesn’t

Of the many issues that have arisen since a global pandemic was declared last March, the way we recognize the dedication and commitment of front-line workers has been beset by inconsistent approaches right across the country. In those early days of the current global health crisis, BC Care Providers Association and EngAge BC were championing for what we referred to as “hero pay,” with the goal of ensuring nurses, care aides, housekeeping, food services, home care workers and other health services staff were given a bonus during a time of increasing anxiety and potential risk due to COVID-19.

We were heartened when Canada’s Prime Minister announced on May 7th a $4 billion fund to boost essential workers’ pay. Good news followed on May 19th when the Province of B.C. confirmed workers in our province would be receiving the pandemic pay bonus. As outlined by the province’s website, the list of eligible employees appeared to include those working all in long-term care and registered assisted living residences.

However, on June 1st we learned from a memo sent by HEABC that the only positions that would be eligible under the province’s Temporary Pandemic Pay (TPP) program would be those working in publicly subsidized sites. Despite the fact provincial health orders broadly affected operators throughout the entire seniors care continuum, those working in privately funded LTC and AL residences, independent living and private home health would not be eligible for the TTP bonus.

Needless to say, we were disappointed by this update. Our Acting CEO Mike Klassen took his concerns to social media that evening, prompting a follow up response by the B.C. government.

Meetings with government representatives and letters to the Minister of Finance, Hon. Carole James ensued, where BCCPA/EngAge BC asked that the province would reconsider their approach, and make the thousands front-line workers eligible for the pandemic benefit. Much of this early advocacy was documented in a June 16th web post. Later, members of the Official Opposition also asked tough questions of the government on this matter, during the recently concluded budget estimates debates – see here and here.

Regrettably, there was no change in the government’s position with regards to the eligibility criteria for the pandemic pay bonus. On August 4th, we received a letter from Minister James confirming that her decision on TPP eligibility would not change.

Over the past 2 months we have heard from so many who are deeply disappointed that they do not qualify for the pandemic pay bonus – including many workers who lost income due to the single site requirement. We share your disappointment and will continue to strive to support those who provide vitally important services for B.C.’s seniors on the front lines.

Notwithstanding the decision being confirmed, those who still wish to share their thoughts are able to communicate their views to the Premier, Minister of Finance, Minister of Health and their local MLA. To get their contact information, you can get that information via phone or text at the Service BC website.