As provinces begin to roll out reopening plans for non-essential businesses, the logistical challenges of implementing social distancing in some workplaces mean that many employees will continue to work from home for the foreseeable future. As companies consider which employees will be asked to return to the workplace, and when, the legal considerations and risks associated with work from home arrangements should be taken into account.
Industry: Membership Associations
Ontario Announces First Stage of Reopening Province
On May 14, 2020, the Ontario government announced that certain workplaces will be able to resume operations beginning May 19, 2020, signalling the start of Stage 1 of the second phase of the province’s reopening strategy, “A Framework for Reopening our Province” (Stage 1). The government also announced additional seasonal services and activities that may open May 16, 2020.
Ontario Bar Association: What will a return to work look like Part 2…..When the Dust Settles…..
As businesses contemplate a return to work, there are a number of questions confronting employers including employment law and Employment Standards Act requirements, health and safety obligations, and potential claims arising out of restructured workplaces. Join this expert faculty as, over the course of three weeks, they provide deep insight on how to tackle the quickly evolving legal issues facing employers today. Register now to secure your spot for this highly practical and timely program.
Ontario Bar Association: What will a return to work look like Part 1?
As businesses contemplate a return to work, there are a number of questions confronting employers including employment law and Employment Standards Act requirements, health and safety obligations, and potential claims arising out of restructured workplaces. Join this expert faculty as, over the course of three weeks, they provide deep insight on how to tackle the quickly evolving legal issues facing employers today. Register now to secure your spot for this highly practical and timely program.
Ontario Bar Association: Returning to Work – Employer Considerations and Workforce Management Strategies
As businesses contemplate a return to work, there are a number of questions confronting employers including employment law and Employment Standards Act requirements, health and safety obligations, and potential claims arising out of restructured workplaces. Join this expert faculty as, over the course of three weeks, they provide deep insight on how to tackle the quickly evolving legal issues facing employers today. Register now to secure your spot for this highly practical and timely program.
Federal Government Will Not Permit Employers to Top-Up the CERB Through a SUB Plan
On May 8, 2020, the federal government published a new question and answer (Q&A) about the use of Supplemental Unemployment Benefit (SUB) plans to top-up the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
Benefits Canada Publishes an Article by Rayaz Khan on CEWS and CERB Government Programs
Hicks Morley’s Rayaz Khan authored an article published on April 14, 2020 in Benefits Canada titled “A Legal Update on the Government’s CEWS and CERB Programs.” The COVID-19 pandemic has created many complicated issues for employers. Prudent employers should ensure they’re aware of the resources that may be available during this uncertain time when information regarding government support is rapidly changing.
Canada Revenue Agency Announces Temporary COVID-19 Relief for Registered Pension Plans
In response to industry requests, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) announced on May 5, 2020 that the minimum 1% employer contribution rule applicable to defined contribution (DC) pension plans is temporarily suspended. In addition, the federal Department of Finance issued a comfort letter confirming that it will recommend an amendment to the Income Tax Regulations to extend the deadline for electing to purchase a leave of absence on a current-service basis. These measures are intended to temporarily assist the sponsors and administers of DC and defined benefit (DB) registered pension plans in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Update: Certain Businesses Permitted to Reopen, and More
In this FTR Now: Province allows businesses to reopen; Ontario announces workplace health and safety guidance; Ontario expands the list of essential workers eligible to receive free emergency child care; Further amendments to the Employment Insurance Act and New Canada Emergency Student Benefit; and more!
Hicks Morley Lawyers Named Leading Practitioners in the 2020 Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory
Hicks Morley congratulates each one of our lawyers who has been recognized as a leading practitioner in the 2020 Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory.