Employment lawyer on legal options for Ontario teachers during COVID-19

Interview Summary

As plans for schools to reopen in September unfold, many teachers across Ontario are worried that not enough is being done in order for them to return safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government is increasing funding, but is it enough for the implementation of new safety standards and practices?

Lior Samfiru, a Toronto employment lawyer and partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, joined Global News Morning to discuss legal options for unionized Ontario teachers.

Interview Notes

00:24 – Teachers cannot sue in courts, so what are their choices? The main option is to file a grievance and go through the process of arbitration.

1:00 – When it comes to potential job action, could teachers go on strike? In this situation, a strike would be illegal as there is a deal in place. A work refusal is possible, however.

2:23 – For teachers who are immune-compromised and are unable to return, what are their options? Teachers in this situation who have a medical condition can obtain a doctor’s note and teach in a different way.