Taylor v. Salytics Inc., a recent decision of the Ontario Court of Appeal, provides welcome appellate confirmation that where an employment agreement expressly permits a temporary lay-off and the lay-off is implemented within the Employment Standards Act, 2000 framework, the lay-off will not trigger a constructive dismissal, and therefore a termination of employment.
Business Operation: Ontario
Court Clarifies Frustration and Benefit Claims in Employment Damages
The Ontario Court of Appeal has clarified two issues affecting termination liability: (1) when an employee’s illness or disability frustrates the employment contract, and (2) when an employer-provided resource is a compensable employment benefit rather than a work tool supplied to do the job.
Reminder to Employers: Ontario to Increase Minimum Wage Effective October 1, 2026
A reminder to employers that the Ontario government will be increasing the general minimum wage to $17.95 per hour (previously $17.60 per hour) effective October 1, 2026.
Arbitrator Clarifies When Sick Leave May Be Available Following a WSIB Denial
A recent award clarifies when sick leave may be available after a WSIB denial and confirms the need for a case-by-case assessment.
Ontario Superior Court Provides Guidance on Navigating Due Diligence Under OHSA
Ontario (Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development) v. Greater Sudbury (City) is significant for employers navigating due diligence under OHSA. It affirms that due diligence is not a standard of perfection but a fact-driven inquiry measured against what was genuinely within the accused’s control.
Ontario Seeks Public Input on Proposed Regulations Under Municipal Accountability Act, 2025
Municipalities now have an opportunity to respond to Ontario’s proposed accountability regulations. This article outlines the changes that could affect codes of conduct, training, inquiry processes and reporting obligations.
Ontario Consults on New LIF, Locked-in RRIF and LIRA Unlocking Rules
Ontario has proposed significant changes governing the unlocking of funds held in Life Income Funds (LIF), locked-in Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIF) and Locked-In Retirement Accounts (LIRA). The proposal is most relevant to financial institutions that administer these accounts.
Key Changes to the HRTO’s Rules of Procedure and Practice Directions Took Effect August 17, 2026
The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario has updated its Rules of Procedure and Practice Directions. The HRTO also introduced two new Practice Directions and process improvements.
Ontario Court of Appeal Case is a Warning to Employers to Review Their Incentive Plans
The decision has significant implications for employers that provide equity awards or other incentive plans. Employers should review their plans and award documents before the same drafting issue produces a similarly significant claim.
FIFA World Cup 2026™ – Labour and Employment Development Roundup
Two World Cup-related decisions offer practical reminders for employers: major sporting events may influence disputes, but they do not change the legal tests that apply.