FIFA requests exemptions from employment laws in Ontario: Employment lawyer on CTV News

Interview Summary

FIFA has requested that workers who will be part of the 2026 World Cup be exempt from labour laws in Toronto.

This request has led to questions surrounding employee rights when working for international companies with varying employment laws.

Are there certain protections employees will be given while working for FIFA in Ontario?

Alex Lucifero, an Ontario employment lawyer and Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, joined CTV News Ottawa’s Patricia Boal to discuss the rights of employees and employer obligations.

Interview Notes

• Following local employment laws: Despite having headquarters in another country, corporations that operate in Ontario are subject to local provincial employment laws. Employers cannot contract out of local employment laws. Provincially regulated employees working for FIFA in Ontario are owed minimum wage, severance pay, overtime, etc.
• Options for employees worried about unfair practices: Employees dealing with concerns regarding their compensation should contact the Ministry of Labour. For concerns regarding changes made to the initial terms of employment or severance, employees should seek legal advice from an employment lawyer.

Related Resources

For further insights and discussions related to basic employee rights explore the following resources:

• Overtime Pay in Ontario
• Severance Pay in Ontario