Bank employees let go due to harassment: Employment lawyer discusses on CTV News

Interview Summary

Six individuals are no longer with the Bank of Montreal’s mining group, BMO Nesbitt Burns, following an internal probe into the alleged bullying and harassment of a male colleague.

What can employees in a toxic work environment do to protect their rights? Are there legal consequences for failing to address harassment complaints?

Alex Lucifero, an Ontario employment lawyer and Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, joined CTV News Ottawa to discuss employer obligations regarding workplace harassment and employee rights.

Interview Notes

• Fired “for cause” due to harassment: Lucifero explained the concept of terminations for cause, and how harassment can lead to it. “In situations where an employee has done something terrible wrong, their employer is allowed to end their employment without any notice or severance.” Lucifero went on to reiterate that workplace harassment can be considered significant misconduct.
• Options for employees experiencing harassment: Employees are quite protected by employment laws in Ontario, Lucfiero explained. “It is very clear in the legislation that employers have to guard against harassment in the workplace.” Lucifero went on to clarify that employers must investigate complaints of harassment.
• Upper hand for employees: Lucifero reiterated the importance of employees speaking up. “It is important that you voice your concerns when it comes to harassment. That is step one. These issues must be brought to an employer.”

Related Resources

For further insights and discussions related to workplace harassment explore the following resources:

• Harassment in the workplace