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SGEU calls for investments in workers for Grocery Heroes Day

“There are two things the premier could do immediately to demonstrate his thanks to frontline workers: raise the minimum wage from the lowest in the country and bring in paid sick days for everyone.” — Tracey Sauer, SGEU President

Regina (21 July 2021) — In recognition of Grocery Heroes Day, the Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU/NUPGE) is calling on the premier to do more than just sign a letter.

Workers deserve real investments in their well-being

“Grocery store workers and other frontline staff deserve a lot more than just a thank-you note,” said SGEU president Tracey Sauer. “These workers have worked incredibly hard, at great personal risk, to provide essential services throughout this pandemic – they deserve real investments in their well-being. That Premier Moe has chosen to pay lip service to these workers without taking action to improve their working conditions is simply not good enough.”

SGEU is calling on the premier to invest in frontline workers by:

  • Raising Saskatchewan’s minimum wage from the lowest in the country to $15 per hour
  • Legislating paid sick days for all workers, so no one has to choose between going to work sick or staying home without pay

Grocery store workers are essential

“There are two things the premier could do immediately to demonstrate his thanks to frontline workers: raise the minimum wage from the lowest in the country and bring in paid sick days for everyone,” added Sauer.

“This pandemic has shown everyone that grocery store workers are essential, and a thank you doesn’t pay the rent. This government needs to invest in our province’s lowest-paid workers now.”