Paying back CERB, 1 in 3 dating coworkers

Interview Summary

A study recently illuminated that one in three employees are currently part of a workplace romance. What are the legal implications of employees engaging in workplace relationships? What can employers do to ensure the human rights of all employees are being respected?

Jon Pinkus, a Toronto employment lawyer and Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP joins Kelly Cutrara on Radio 640 Toronto to answer these questions and more.

Interview Notes

• Are maternity leave benefits considered employment benefits: CERB benefits do seem to count towards a maximum amount of benefits that employees are permitted to receive. The employment insurance system seems to need reform and clarity for many employees.
• Workplace relationships and employee rights: Many workplaces have experienced a rise in workplace relationships over the course of the pandemic despite employees working remotely.
• What should employees in a workplace romance know: Employees should keep in mind that relationships in which one member is in a subordinate role could cause problems and are rarely permitted.
• Employer policies regarding relationships and communication: It is important for employers to set out policies regarding workplace relationships and the proper manner to communicate, and what should be left off of company devices.