Who will benefit from an extension to the CEWS Program?

Canada’s Department of Finance is proposing significant changes to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy program. Along with an extension to the program, there are also overall expansions. Toronto employment lawyer Jon Pinkus discusses the ramifications of these proposed changes on the Mike Farwell Show with host Brandon Graziano.

What They Discussed:

• How will the extension to the wage subsidy program function?
  There are several significant changes made to the CEWS program, the most notable being an increase in funding available to employers.
• How long is the program going to run?
  Until the end of 2020.
• What types of businesses does this extension primarily affect?
  This largely applies to most companies although there is a conversation that still needs to be had for start-up businesses.
• For employees returning with the help of CEWS, will they also have back-pay included?
  There is no requirement from an employer to back pay their employee.
• Is it in an employee’s best interest to instead seek a constructive dismissal?
  This will be dependent on the situation and the employer’s intentions.
• Is the expansion to the CEWS program convoluted and difficult for most people to comprehend?
  The important aspect to note from these changes is that more people will be covered and a larger subsidy will be available.
• Can we expect this expansion and deadline change will be passed?
  This legislation will not only ensure an extension to the program but also an extension to the qualifying period.
• Who will the new proposed disability payment benefit?
  This program will not be easy to qualify for as the necessary qualifications are very specific and narrow.