All federally regulated employers in Canada are now required to provide free menstrual products to their employees.
This new requirement, effective from Dec. 15, 2023, applies to both private and public sector workplaces and is expected to benefit approximately 500,000 employees across the country, according to the federal government.
The announcement was made by Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Labour and Seniors, at Billy Bishop Airport in Toronto. He was joined by Carolyn Bennett, Member of Parliament for Toronto—St. Paul’s. This initiative places menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, in the same category as other basic necessities, available at no cost in accessible areas like washrooms or office supply cabinets.
O’Regan highlighted the importance of this step, comparing menstrual products to toilet paper, a standard provision in workplaces. He emphasized the aim to eliminate the stigma surrounding menstruation. Similarly, Bennett underscored the significance of this initiative for basic health and hygiene, expressing hope that such measures would soon become standard practice.
Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, pointed out the financial aspect of this policy. She noted that in times of economic difficulty, menstrual products should not be an added financial burden, and that providing them free of charge in workplaces is a stride towards ending period poverty and promoting menstrual equity.
