The current tariff disputes triggered by the U.S. administration have left many understandably dazed and confused. However, amid these increasingly turbulent tariff disputes, some perspective can be gained by considering the actions of the participants through basic negotiation theory.
Hicks Morley publishes a number of materials, both electronic and print, on issue-specific and sector-specific topics of interest to our clients. Our insights section has links to all of our various publications, updates and blogs, both current and historical, to keep you informed of developments in the law that impact human resources.
FTR Now
Federal Government Releases New Details on Employment Insurance Temporary Measures in Response to Tariffs
On March 22, 2025, the federal government announced that it will be implementing a pilot project, temporarily amending the Employment Insurance (EI) Regulations.
Raising the Bar
Sweeping Reforms Proposed to Ontario Rules of Civil Procedure
The Ontario Civil Rules Review (“CRR”) Working Group has released its much-anticipated Phase 2 Report, proposing broad reforms to the civil justice system in Ontario. The CRR was launched in January 2024 with a mandate to identify ways in which civil court proceedings could be made more efficient, affordable, and accessible.
Human Resources Legislative Update
Ontario Minimum Wage to Increase October 1, 2025
On April 1, 2025, the Ontario government announced that the general minimum wage will increase to $17.60 an hour (from $17.20 an hour) effective October 1, 2025. This minimum wage applies to most employees. The minimum wage for the following groups will also increase on October 1, 2025: This adjustment reflects the 2.4% increase in the Ontario…
Case In Point
Supervisor Found Criminally Negligent and Sentenced to Five Years in Prison Following a Vehicle Collision Resulting in Driver’s Death
A recent decision serves as a reminder that supervisors’ actions—and inactions—regarding workplace safety are subject not only to the OHSA but also to the Criminal Code. In this Case in Point, Hicks Morley’s Artimes Ghahremani shares the Court’s analysis and key takeaways for supervisors.
Common Ground? Class Action Updates
Federal Court Dismisses $2.5 Billion Class Action Alleging Systemic Anti-Black Racism in Federal Public Service Hiring Decisions and Promotional Opportunities
The Federal Court of Canada determined a class action that sought to address alleged systemic anti-Black racism and discrimination simply did not meet the procedural criteria to certify the action as a class proceeding. In this Common Ground, Hicks Morley’s Sean Reginio and Eleanor Vaughan examine the Court’s analysis.
Case In Point
B.C. Supreme Court Imposes Costs on Workers’ Compensation Appeal Tribunal for Procedural Fairness Breaches, Deviating from the “Traditional Immunity” Enjoyed by Decision-Makers
A recent ruling underscores the importance of procedural fairness in administrative tribunal proceedings, especially when dealing with vulnerable applicants. In this Case in Point, Mariana Kamenetsky reviews the case, the court’s analysis and the decision. https://
FTR Now
Significant Special Measures for the Employment Insurance Work-Sharing Program Introduced for Businesses, Non-Profits Impacted by U.S. Tariffs
If you are an employer being impacted by the threat of U.S. tariffs, special measures introduced to the Employment Insurance Work-Sharing Program may be a valuable tool.
Case In Point
Dismissal of Healthcare Worker for Failure to Disclose COVID-19 Exposure to Spouse/Co-Worker Not Discriminatory
A recent decision provides clarification on the distinction between legitimate workplace policy enforcement and discriminatory conduct. In this #CIP, Hicks Morley’s Gabrielle Lemoine shares details of the case and what it means for employers and HR professionals.
Federal Post
Federal Government Launches Consultation on Draft Regulations Related to Equal Pay Under the Canada Labour Code
The federal government published new draft regulations regarding prohibiting employers from paying different wage rates to employees based on employment status. In this Federal Post, Hicks Morley’s Paul Broad shares details of the draft regulations.