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…
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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.
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.
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.
Tariffs Are Here: How Will They Impact Canadian Businesses?
Whether the current tariffs remain in place or not, understanding them and considering how to effectively navigate them will leave employers better prepared in the face of uncertainty.
Managing Temporary Workplace Disruptions: Supplemental Unemployment Benefit Plans and the Employment Insurance Work-Sharing Program
While tariffs may be paused for now, economic uncertainty remains. What strategies can Canadian employers take to protect the future of their businesses? How can they ensure they retain skilled employees and manage employee concerns around job insecurity? Hicks Morley’s David Gruber explains in our latest #FTRNow.
Anticipating the Impact of U.S. Tariffs and Work Slowdowns in Ontario: Temporary Layoffs, Individual and Mass Terminations, and Alternate Measures
In addition to managing worker anxiety, businesses must be prepared to meet economic challenges that may lay ahead.
Court Awards Terminated Executive Over $456,000 After Finding Employer’s Conditional Severance Offer Constituted Repudiation of the Employment Agreement
A recent decision underscores the importance of complying with contractual termination entitlements for departing employees. In this Case in Point, Hicks Morley’s Justin Choy examines the decision and what it means for employers.
Employers Take Note: Certain Employees Entitled to Paid Time Off to Cast Vote in the 2025 Ontario Provincial Election
The Ontario provincial election will be held on February 27, 2025. Under the Ontario Election Act (Act), eligible employees are entitled to three consecutive hours during voting hours to cast their vote. In some circumstances, this may require employers to provide certain employees with paid time off to vote.
Year in Review – Key Legislative Updates of 2024
Welcome to our annual review of notable legislative updates over the past year that we believe will be of interest to employers and human resources professionals.