QUEEN’S PARK — NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath released the following statement regarding the death of a personal support worker (PSW) at Sienna Altamont Care Community in Scarborough:
“My heart is broken for this health care hero, her loved ones, and the warriors still battling COVID-19 at Sienna Altamont Care Community. During this incredibly difficult time, I’m sure the fact that her loved ones can’t gather to grieve only compounds their pain. I hope her family, friends and union sisters and brothers are able to find comfort in community, even when they’re apart.
This horrible tragedy is a reminder of the danger frontline workers are facing, and the support and protection they need. The province has a responsibility to ensure each and every frontline worker has access to personal protective equipment, using the precautionary principle. Every frontline workers’ life is valuable, and, even in these extremely difficult times, we should consider workplace illnesses and deaths preventable, and take every measure possible to protect workers.”