A Department of Labour mandate requiring federally-regulated private employers to provide workers with free sanitary napkins will cost the Canadian government about $11.6 million per year, according to Blacklock’s Reporter. .“Menstrual products are a basic need and essential to upholding the sexual and reproductive health and rights of Canadians,” Liberal MP Jenna Sudds told the House of Commons. .“They ensure people who menstruate can continue to participate in school, in work, and in their communities.”.Sudds said period stigma exists and “creates barriers for Canadians every day.”.The Department of Labour detailed draft regulations under the Canada Labour Code to require free sanitary napkins be provided by federally-regulated employers such as airlines, banks, railways, and TV stations. Existing Occupational Health And Safety regulations require employers provide workers with washroom facilities, soap, water, and hand dryers..“Currently there are no requirements for employers to provide menstrual products in federally-regulated workplaces despite the fact it is estimated approximately 35% of their employees require menstrual products on a regular basis,” said staff. .“The absence of menstrual products in the workplace can translate into physical and psychological health and safety risks for menstruating employees.”.Staff said government intervention is necessary “for the labour program to fulfill its mandate to maintain healthy and safe workplaces.” They said the financial burden from menstrual products is felt the most by low-income people and marginalized communities such as indigenous and LGBT people. .No deadline was fixed for enforcement of new rules. Draft regulations came after three years of review and multiple petitions..“There has been increasing public awareness and acknowledgement that menstrual products constitute necessary items that are essential to the health of a large proportion of Canadians,” said staff. .The Alberta government announced Oct. 5 it would spend $260,000 in Period Promise to improve menstrual care and provide period products to youth in need..READ MORE: Alberta government invests in 'Period Promise' to improve menstrual care for the poor.“Periods are a natural part of life, but when individuals don’t have adequate products and information, it can seriously impact their health," said Alberta Status of Women Associate Minister Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk. ."Our government’s investment in Period Promise is an important step in ensuring people can participate in school, work, and social events feeling comfortable and supported.”
