On November 30, 2011, the Ontario government tabled Bill 13, the Accepting Schools Act, 2011, legislation intended to address the issue of bullying in schools. This Bill, if passed, would amend the Education Act to include, among other things: a definition of bullying; a requirement that school boards implement policies promoting positive school environments that…
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Court Finds Tort of Conspiracy in Case of Departed Insurance Producers
On October 6, 2011, Justice Stinson released an important decision finding two insurance producers liable for departing and taking a book of business without paying for it. Neither producer had signed written contracts regarding who owned the books of business. Justice Stinson held that one of the producers breached his verbal agreement that he would…
Three Recent Decisions, Three Different Results – An Update on the 24 Hour Shift in the Fire Sector
INTRODUCTION In recent years, the issue of whether or not to adopt a 24 hour shift schedule has become one of the top demands that fire associations are seeking at the bargaining table and at interest arbitration. Fire associations have sought the 24 hour shift regardless of the size of the department, population served or…
Pooled Registered Pension Plan Framework Introduced
On November 17, 2011, the federal government introduced the much anticipated Bill C-25, An Act relating to pooled registered pension plans and making related amendments to other Acts, also known as the Pooled Registered Pension Plans Act (the “PRPP Act”). The proposed legislation follows high-profile consultations with the provinces and the industry, which resulted in…
Bill C-13 at First Reading in the Senate
On November 22, 2011, First Reading of Bill C-13, Keeping Canada’s Economy and Jobs Growing Act, commenced in the Senate. As previously reported, the Bill was introduced on October 4, 2011.
2011 Fall Issue
FOCUS ON OTTAWA Deep roots:10 years in Ottawa LEGAL DEVELOPMENTS Training 101 PROFILE French Connection Download PDF
Ontario Legislative Assembly Convenes to Elect Speaker
On November 21, 2011, the Ontario Legislative Assembly convened for the Election of the Speaker. The Speech from the Throne will be given on Tuesday November 22, 2011.
School Board Update
IN THIS ISSUE Arbitrator Provides Helpful Award in Ontario’s First TPA Discharge Arbitration Divisional Court Re-Affirms the Importance of Time Limits Pay Equity Remains a Priority Legal Issue for School Boards Accommodating Scent Sensitivities in the Workplace Ontario Human Rights Tribunal Endorses Employer Control Over Accommodation Process Integrated Accessibility Standards under the AODA OMERS Omissions…
Alcohol and the Holiday Office Party
It is that time of year again when thoughts are turning to seasonal and holiday celebrations. Whether these celebrations are large or small, it is important that employers take proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of their employees who attend office parties or other celebrations. Over the years, a number of court decisions…
Federal Pooled Registered Pension Plan (“PRPP”) Legislation Introduced
On November 17, 2011, the Minister of State (Finance) and the Minister of Industry announced the introduction of Bill C-25, An Act relating to pooled registered pension plans and making related amendments to other Acts, new legislation implementing the framework for the federal component of the PRPP. The government will shortly release draft tax rules…