(CKOM News staff)

By CKOM News

Province creates safe access zones for health-care workers, patients

Nov 10, 2021 | 12:54 PM

The Saskatchewan government is looking to take better care of its health-care workers at their workplaces.

On Wednesday, the government introduced The Public Health (Safe Access to Hospitals) Amendment Act, 2021, which will allow for the creation and enforcement of safe access zones around hospitals so patients and employees won’t be harassed by protesters.

The zones would extend 50 metres from the buildings, stopping sidewalk protests near hospitals that could result in delays or harassment for people going into the facilities.

“Patients and families deserve to be able to access health services safely and without facing interference or intimidation,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said in a media release. “This provision will also support our hospitals and staff in providing health services with safety, dignity and privacy.”

Such laws aren’t unprecedented in Canada. There are “bubble zone” laws to protect abortion access in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Quebec. As well, court injunctions have created bubble zones around hospitals in Alberta, Ontario and New Brunswick.

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In September, the Saskatchewan NDP called for the creation of the safe access zones. The Saskatchewan Union of Nurses demanded action as well.

The legislation also will provide safe access for additional immunizing staff to support vaccination programs, including influenza vaccine, COVID-19 boosters and vaccines for children aged five to 11.

The government said lawful labour picketing will be allowed within the safe access zones.

The provision permitting the safe access zones will expire two years after the legislation comes into force.