570 News – Does Employer’s Failure to Provide Vegan Food Violate Human Rights?

Ontario Firefighter Adam Knauff has registered a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal, stating a failure by his employer to provide vegan friendly food options violated his human rights while fighting a wildfire near Williams Lake, B.C. in 2018.

Knauff, who was suspended without pay for three days due to his negative reaction surrounding the situation, claims his beliefs were not respected.

Are Ethical Vegans considered a creed under Canadian Human Rights or is this simply a lifestyle choice? Should employers be responsible for providing appropriate dietary options for employees who identify as ethical vegans?

Jon Pinkus is a Toronto Employment Lawyer and an associate at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP. He discussed the legal implications of the situation with host Brian Bourke on 570 News.