The Premier says B.C. could start its own sick pay program if the federal government doesn’t start a national one.

John Horgan says all options are on the table and that he is not ruling out anything just yet.

“I still believe that this should be a national program with national leadership because it has national consequences,” he said. “But we’re prepared to go it alone, if need be.”

Horgan has been suggesting since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in March that employers have a role in providing sick pay to workers, and that people need to stay home if they have any symptoms.

The Premier has his weekly call today with premiers in Canada, adding he is also speaking to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland.

“I do have allies in the federal government who appreciate the initiative that I’ve been promoting,” Horgan added. “So, I’m going to hold fast to my position and we’ll see what comes out of [today].”

Horgan has called on Ottawa to fund the sick days using the EI program, calling the pandemic a national health emergency, an idea that has been backed by B.C.’s major business leaders in a letter to Trudeau.

“We do have alternative plans in place, but I still firmly believe that the Federal Government needs to be a part of this.”