FTR Now

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…

FTR Now

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…

Human Resources Legislative Update

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

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…

FTR Now

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…

FTR Now

Are You Prepared for the AODA?

As the new year approaches, some key compliance deadlines under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (“AODA“) are also approaching. In this FTR Now, we review what needs to be done by employers by January 1, 2012. ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE By January 1, 2012, private and not-for-profit organizations should be in…

Human Resources Legislative Update

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…

FTR Now

Human Rights Tribunal is not a Judicial Review Body

The Supreme Court of Canada has issued a significant decision limiting the jurisdiction of a human rights tribunal to consider matters that have already been dealt with in another proceeding. In British Columbia (Workers’ Compensation Board) v. Figliola, the Supreme Court considered whether the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal had jurisdiction to hear a matter that…

Human Resources Legislative Update

Second Window for Broader Public Sector Solvency Funding Relief Announced

On November 2, 2011, the Ontario government announced the second window of eligibility for broader public sector (“BPS”) solvency funding relief. As previously discussed in our FTR Now of February 11, 2011, “Solvency Funding Relief Details for Broader Public Sector Released by Ontario Government”, BPS solvency funding relief provides BPS pension plans two stages of…