Aug. 25 deadline for temporary layoff extension

If you need to extend COVID-19 temporary layoffs beyond Aug. 30, make sure to file your application by Aug. 25. The provincial government sent a reminder today to employers who want to retain staff who have been laid off. Under the Employment Standards Act, layoffs become permanent after 24 weeks and require severance.
 
The Chamber loudly advocated for an extension as many employers abiding by physical distancing restrictions are not yet able to bring back staff. Forcing organizations to let go of workers would mean the loss of trained teams and a large, unexpected expense.
 
The provincial government heard our concerns and allowed employers to apply for a variance to the deadline. The two-step application requires 50% support from the employees and the completion of an online application.
 
The provincial government also announced today that it would review layoff and recall rights of workers in the hard-hit hotel sector.

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