Minister of Seniors, Community, and Social Services Jeremy Nixon says Alberta’s government recognizes the vital role that disability workers play in caring for some of our province’s most vulnerable individuals..On Monday, nearly 15,000 disability workers across Alberta called on the provincial government to resolve what they claim is a "staffing crisis" impacting their ability to provide essential services..READ MORE: RALLIES LOOMING: Disability workers calling on Alberta's government for support to resolve 'staffing crisis'."Workers are currently organizing public events to be announced in protest of low wages and staffing issues in the province," Alberta Disability Awareness in Action collective spokesperson Dale Cena told the Western Standard.."They are determined to resolve the current staffing crisis that is impacting our ability to provide essential services.".Nixon told the Western Standard, affordability was "especially made clear in the mandate letter I received from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith."."Her passion and care for the disability sector is creating strong opportunities for change and I am proud to represent our government throughout this process," Nixon said..Cena said that most employees are finding it tough with the rising living costs as they struggle to fill their gas tanks with an average wage across the sector at $18.76 per hour.."Members of our collective have not seen a wage increase since 2014. Yet since that time the cost of living increased by 15% and the average hourly wage in Canada across all sectors increased by more than 27%," Cena said..“I continue to meet with organizations and individuals from the disability sector to hear their concerns and make sure they know their provincial government is listening," Nixon said.."It is important we maintain stable access to support services to ensure vulnerable individuals are receiving the care they need. I recognize the urgency of these issues, which is why I look forward to finding quick solutions to ensure Alberta’s disability sector is supported in the incredible work they do."
