Toronto employment lawyer on IDEL and Shopify layoffs

Interview Summary

The recent expiration of the Infectious Disease Emergency Leave as well as the latest round of Shopify layoffs has resulted in many concerns expressed by employees. What can employees who have been placed on a layoff expect from their employers in terms of severance?

Jeremy Herman, a Toronto employment lawyer and Associate at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP spoke to CityNews 680 to comment on employee rights and what options are available to them.

Interview Notes

• Employees on leave or had pay or hours reduced under IDEL: For those employees who were placed on a layoff under the IDEL program or had their wages and hours reduced, even if they have found work since, they can pursue severance entitlements.
• Shopify mass layoffs: Employers should be wary of implementing a general calculation of severance for all employees. Severance is based on numerous factors including the age of an employee, their position and years of service. Shopify employees who were recently terminated should be wary of agreeing to an initial severance offer.