HR BLOG

Ontario Announces $11B in Relief for Some Tariff-Hit Businesses

On April 7, 2025, the Government of Ontario announced approximately $11 billion in relief and support for businesses across the province that have been directly or indirectly affected, or will soon be hit, by the emerging trade war between the U.S. and Canada. These changes impact provincially-administered tax programs and […]

Ontario Government Increasing Minimum Wage October 1

The Ontario government announced on April 1, 2025, that effective October 1, 2025, the general minimum wage across the province will increase from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour. The annualized wage increase is based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index (OCPI) of 2.4 percent. Similar to the Consumer Price Index […]

Government of Canada Announces New EI Measures to Manage Fallout from U.S. Trade War

On March 22, 2025, the Government of Canada announced three significant changes to the country’s Employment Insurance (EI) program. The adjustments come in response to the implementation and ongoing threat of tariffs levied by the U.S. government on Canadian imports, and subsequent retaliation north of the border. Some analysts suggest […]

Canada Extends Work-Sharing Program to 76 Weeks Amidst Trade War

In light of the trade war unfolding between the U.S. and Canada, on March 7, 2025, the Government of Canada announced that Work-Sharing agreements entered into between employers and employees can run for a maximum of 76 weeks, up from a maximum of 38 weeks. About Work-Sharing  Work-sharing is an […]

Ontario Employers: Here are the Rules About Paid Time Off for Voting in the Upcoming Provincial Election

On February 27, voters in Ontario will head to the polls to cast their ballot for the provincial election. Below we summarize what employers need to know about their obligations to employees per the Ontario Election Act, 1990 (“Act”). Understanding the “Three Consecutive Hours” Rule Per the Act, an employee who […]

10 Ways Canadian Companies Navigate the Impact of U.S. Tariffs

The Trump Administration has announced that it will impose tariffs on Canadian goods exported to the U.S. In response, Canadian politicians have vowed to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports. While the specific amount, extent, or start date for tariffs on either side of the border is currently unclear, Canadian […]

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Maternity Leave in Ontario

Maternity leave is a legally protected entitlement for employees in Ontario whose workplace is governed by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). It is essential for employers to fully understand these rights and obligations. Below we provide answers to frequently asked questions about maternity leave in Ontario. What is maternity […]

Performance Review Advice: Understanding Goals vs. Competencies

Managers should use the performance review period to monitor and assess goals and competencies in their subordinates. Below, we look closer at these concepts. Goals Goals are specific and measurable objectives that a subordinate is expected to achieve within a certain timeframe. Goals are often aligned with the organization’s broader […]

Ontario Government Introduces Working for Workers Six Act, 2024

On November 27, 2024, the Ontario government introduced Working for Workers Six Act, 2024. The proposed legislation seeks to build on the previous five Working for Workers acts, which focused on protecting the health and safety of workers, providing financial relief for workers and businesses, and encouraging more people to […]

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