The Canada Industrial Relations Board has issued its first merits decision under the federal replacement worker ban, confirming that a violation depends on whether the individuals fall within the statutory prohibitions. In reviewing CUPE Local 4317 v. Montreal Gateway Terminals Partnership, Hicks Morley’s Simon Mortimer highlights the Board’s strict, provision-based approach under the updated framework.
Practice Area: Labour Relations
Canada Tables Bill C-36, the Protecting Privacy and Consumer Data Act
In our latest FTR Now Hicks Morley’s Victoria McCorkindale outlines significant changes for private sector organizations proposed in Bill C-36, the Protecting Privacy and Consumer Data Act.
Consultations on Potential Amendments to Canada Labour Code Launched
The federal government has launched consultations on potential amendments to the Canada Labour Code, with possible implications for collective bargaining, worker protections and other employer obligations in federally regulated workplaces. Our latest federal post highlights the key measures under consideration and the timeline for stakeholder input.
Ontario Is Proposing Changes to Governance and Collective Bargaining in School Boards
Ontario’s proposed Bill 101 would introduce changes affecting English-language school boards. Dolores Barbini and Grant Nuttall review what the Bill says, what it does not say (but has been signalled), and the practical implications for school board employers.
Bill C‑15: Key Developments for Employers
Bill C 15 is officially law—and if you’re a federally regulated or public sector employer, there are a few changes you’ll want to take note of. George Vuicic breaks down what has changed and provides practical takeaways in our latest article.
Highlights of the 2026 Ontario Budget
Ontario’s 2026 Budget — A Plan to Protect Ontario — is here, and employers, HR teams, and pension plan administrators will want to pay attention. Read our take on what Ontario employers need to know.
Equal Wage Treatment Regulations Coming Soon
New Equal Wage Treatment Regulations are expected soon, prohibiting federally regulated employers from paying part time, temporary or agency workers less for the same work. George Vuicic provides an overview of the requirements and the limited exceptions that may be available to employers.
BC Labour Relations Board Overturns Arbitration Award Regarding Age 65 Cutoff to LTD Benefits
A recent BCLRB decision clarifies how age 65 LTD cut offs can still qualify as “bona fide” under human rights legislation. Natasha Monkman and Andrew Easto break down the decision and what this could mean for employers.
BCCA Upholds Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Policy Where Employer Relied on Provincial Health Officer’s Opinion
A recent ruling offers new guidance to the reasonableness of mandatory workplace policies. In this article, Andrew Schjerning breaks down a recent British Columbia Court of Appeal decision confirming that employers may reasonably rely on public health authority guidance when implementing mandatory COVID‑19 vaccination policies.
Arbitrator Reinstates Steelworker in Safety Sensitive Role Following Termination for Cannabis Use During Lunch Break
When does lunch break cannabis use justify termination—especially in a safety sensitive role? In this article, Matthew Wronko provides an analysis of a recent arbitration award and what this means for employers drafting drug and alcohol and fitness for duty policies