Muhammad Ali Bukhari, CNMNG News, Toronto

The role of ‘PSW’ or personal support workers as frontline workers in Western society is quite important. As they are engaged in the care of critically ill patients in care centers and hospitals, and they are also engaged in other community care homes, privately owned homes and government-funded long-term nursing homes. At the same time, they not only set a unique example of service but also dedicate themselves to the daily well-being of their patients. According to the Personal Support Worker HQ website, the average life expectancy in long-term care centers in Canada is 87.2 years, and many of them suffer from mental disabilities, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. As a result, their great sacrifice is unforgettable. This example is reflected during the Corona pandemic everywhere in Canada, even in other countries.

Probably due to this, the Employment and Social Development Canada has set up a $1 billion Safe Long-term Care Fund on December 4 last year to provide 4,000 support worker interns and related services; Minister of Employment, Manpower Development and Disability Affairs, Carla Qualtrough has called it a ‘clear career path’.

According to a press release issued on February 24 by the Ontario Premier Office, a total of 8,200 new PSWs to be trained at 24 government-funded colleges from April this year at a cost of $115 million, which the government has acclaimed as a ‘Historic Campaign to Accelerate Training for Personal Support Workers.’ That acclamation also attributed by Premier Doug Ford and the relevant ministers, Merrilee Fullerton and Ross Romano. Specifically, the premier commented, “We are taking monumental steps to protect our most vulnerable and provide the highest quality of care when and where residents need it.”

In addition, the statement of the Minister of Labor, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton is also significant. He said, “This inspiring program will make a real difference to those who are unemployed and struggling. It will offer a helping hand to those who are looking for meaningful, rewarding work by training over 8,000 new skilled workers who can support and care for our most vulnerable.”

Undoubtedly, a significant number of unemployed and struggling immigrants will be able to build themselves into an enlightened profession for their future, which will be a source of pride not only for their families but also for their communities. Hopefully those interested will be able to take advantage of this initiative fast, as the opportunity is limited to only 8,200 candidates. They will be fully trained within six months of admission and therefore have to apply by early next month.