Zero Tolerance for Marijuana in the Workplace Policy Upheld

In the recent decision of French v. Selkin Lodging Ltd., the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal upheld an employer’s policy that prohibited marijuana use in the workplace, notwithstanding the prima facie case of discrimination established by an employee who used marijuana to treat his physical disability.  John French was a cancer survivor who was employed […]

Union Financial Disclosure Bill Becomes Law

If you have ever wondered how exactly the unions associated with your organization spend the dues they collect from your employees, you may soon have some answers. Bill C-377, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (requirements for labour organizations) was a private member’s bill first introduced over two years ago. It has now […]

New Penalties for Non-Compliance with Foreign Worker Programs

Does your organization make use of the Temporary Foreign Worker and/or International Mobility Programs? If so, you now have added incentive to ensure your business is compliant with all program rules and conditions: as of December 1st, 2015, new penalties for non-compliance will come into force. Currently, the consequences of non-compliance by employers are generally […]

Family Status Includes Accommodating Eldercare

In Canada (Attorney General) v. Hicks, the Federal Court recently confirmed that the ground of family status in the Canadian Human Rights Act can protect eldercare responsibilities. Mr. Hicks worked for the federal government in Nova Scotia. He was relocated to a new position in Ottawa when his previous position became redundant. Mr. Hicks’ wife […]

Termination of Disabled Employee due to Workplace Violence Not Discriminatory

In Bellehumeur v. Windsor Factory Supply Ltd., the Court of Appeal of Ontario confirmed an employer’s decision to terminate an employee with a mental disability following an instance of workplace violence. The employer, Windsor Factory Supply, had been accommodating Mr. Bellehumeur for various disabilities he had reported over time, including alcoholism, thyroid and cardiac issues. […]

Reminder: January 1st, 2016 AODA Compliance Obligations

EMPLawyers’ Update has kept its readers informed about the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), which creates obligations for employers in the areas of customer service, employment, information and communications, transportation and the built environment on an ongoing basis. January 1st, 2016 will mark the deadline for […]