In the face of a tumultuous economic landscape characterized by a blend of recovery efforts and strategic repositioning, companies around the world are making hard decisions when it comes to their workforces. A sweeping wave of layoffs has already made its impact felt across various sectors, including tech, media, finance, and retail. With giants such as Google, Meta, and Goldman Sachs trimming their teams, the trend is a stark reminder of the volatility and uncertainty that permeate the global market. As of early 2024, the outlook remains bleak. A survey conducted by ResumeBuilder, which gat ..read more

  In a significant move, Ontario has recently updated its regulations concerning the qualifications of staff in the long-term care sector, particularly personal support workers (PSWs). This decision, embedded in Ontario Regulation 246/22 under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2001, and the subsequent Ontario Regulation 314/23, raises important questions about the future of long-term care in the province. Understanding the Changes Initially, Ontario Regulation 246/22 established that all individuals employed as PSWs or in similar roles must have completed an accredited PSW program or meet sp ..read more

In a landmark decision from Australia, the South Australian Employment Tribunal has set a precedent that may resonate globally, especially in Canada. This decision involves the Department of Child Protection (DCP), which has been ordered to compensate a youth worker, Daniel Shepherd, who developed pericarditis following a COVID booster shot mandated by his employer. This ruling, made on January 15, 2024, underscores a critical issue: the liability of employers for vaccination injuries when the vaccination is a condition of employment. This Tribunal is South Australia’s forum for resolving work ..read more

  In a controversial turn of events, an arbitrator recently criticized Purolator’s decision to extend its COVID-19 vaccine mandate beyond June 2022. This ruling stemmed from grievances filed by Teamsters Local Union No. 31 and raised significant questions about workplace safety measures, management decisions, and employee rights. Let’s delve into the details of this case and explore the implications of this decision. Purolator, a major Canadian courier company, implemented its Safer Workplaces Policy (SWP) on September 15, 2021. This policy required all employees to be vaccinated to acces ..read more

  Is Christmas a discriminatory holiday? This startling question is at the heart of a recent discussion paper released by the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC). With a bold claim that casts Christmas celebrations in a dubious light, the CHRC has ignited a fiery debate. Critics are questioning the CHRC’s stance, labelling it as an overreach into the festivities that many Canadians hold dear. The CHRC’s Position: A Misstep? The CHRC’s paper puts forth a perspective that Christmas, as a traditional Christian holiday, could be seen as a vehicle for religious intolerance. At the same tim ..read more

  As the holiday season approaches, many businesses are gearing up for festivities, celebrations, and expressions of gratitude. It’s a time when employers want to show their appreciation to employees for their hard work throughout the year. However, it’s crucial for employers to navigate the legal landscape carefully to ensure that these celebrations are not marred by unexpected legal issues. In this blog, we’ll explore some key legal considerations for Canadian employers to minimize the likelihood of legal liability. 1. Legal Considerations for Holiday Parties: Holiday parties can b ..read more

  With the advent of Ontario’s Bill 149, the employment landscape confronts a new era of transparency, especially with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in hiring practices. This legislative move, while seemingly a stride in the right direction, opens up a pandora’s box of accountability, efficacy, and ethical considerations, particularly in the realm of executive job searches and HR operations.  AI in Recruitment: A Double-Edged Sword AI has revolutionized recruitment, offering unparalleled efficiency in candidate screening and selection. Yet, its implications are far-reaching ..read more

  The Ontario Government’s introduction of Bill 149, titled the Working for Workers Four Act, 2023, signals a forward-moving step in the province’s labour legislation. This proposed bill, which follows the succession of Working for Workers Acts from previous years, promises to usher in a new era of transparency and fairness in the workplace. Key Reforms on the Horizon Pay Transparency Bill 149 aims to demystify salary expectations by mandating employers to disclose compensation details in job advertisements. This approach to pay transparency is not just about clarity; it’s about equity, e ..read more

  In a significant development for labour rights in Canada, the City of Ottawa has taken a progressive step by banning the use of replacement workers during strikes. This decision represents a significant shift in labour law and has implications for both employers and employees. In this blog post, we will explore the details of this decision, its potential impact, and what it means for the future of labour relations in the country. The Ban on Replacement Workers Ottawa City Council recently passed a bylaw that prohibits the use of replacement workers, often referred to as “scabs,” during ..read more

In recent years, the opioid crisis has become a significant public health concern, affecting communities across Canada, including workplaces. As employers play a crucial role in safeguarding their employees’ health and safety, it is essential to address potential risks related to opioid overdoses in the workplace. To protect the well-being of employees, the Ontario government has taken proactive measures by implementing the Naloxone in the Workplace program. This blog will explore the significance of Naloxone in workplaces, the employer’s obligations, and the steps to ensure compliance. Unders ..read more