By Canadian Press

Federally regulated workplaces will soon provide menstrual products for free

May 10, 2023 | 10:48 AM

OTTAWA — Federally regulated workplaces are expected to begin offering free menstrual products to workers starting in mid-December.

Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan has announced changes to the Canada Labour Code that would ensure access to such products beginning Dec. 15.

The Liberals promised in their 2021 election campaign to make free tampons and pads available in federally regulated workplaces, and set up a fund to make menstrual products available to vulnerable people.

The 2022 federal budget allocated $25 million to establish a national pilot for the menstrual equity fund, which aims to help make menstrual products available to people who may have challenges affording them.

Increased awareness of “period poverty” — a term used to describe financial barriers to accessing menstrual products — has led various jurisdictions to make menstrual products more widely available.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Scotland passed a law last year to make menstrual products free for anyone who needs them.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 10, 2023.

The Canadian Press