In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, and with all of the recently introduced benefit programs designed to address these unprecedented times, it can be difficult to stay informed of the latest supports available to Employers and Employees. We, at PKF Lawyers, recognize this challenge and have compiled a list of benefits and supports, to assist those attempting to navigate through this uncertainty. The following compilation of articles aim to help inform both Employers and Employees of some of the recently introduced and available supports which may be of some assistance during these trying times.
Please note that as we continue to monitor and update this hub of information, the resources available are constantly changing. We, at PKF Lawyers, are committed to providing the necessary support to all our clients. For more information or to discuss what might be best for you in your specific situation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Changes to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (“CEWS”), originally introduced to maintain employment by subsidizing employers who have experienced a decline in revenue as a result of COVID-19, will now undergo certain changes. According to the new changes, any eligible employer (excluding any public institutions), experiencing any decline in revenue, may now qualify for the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy.
Employer Liability: Going Back to Work after COVID-19
What are an employer’s duties to their employees regarding safety and working conditions? Can an employer be found liable if an employee contracts coronavirus at work? As provinces begin to loosen restrictions, employees return to work, what do employers need to know?
Returning to Work in Manitoba
Manitoba is beginning the process of reopening its economy, services are being restored, and businesses are resuming operations. As a result, workplaces are becoming active, raising key issues regarding the rights, and the obligations of employers and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Employer Liability: Going Back to Work after COVID-19
What are an employer’s duties to their employees regarding safety and working conditions? Can an employer be found liable if an employee contracts coronavirus at work? As provinces begin to loosen restrictions, employees return to work, what do employers need to know?
Is Your Business Essential?
As the pandemic of COVID-19 continues to evolve within our community, it is critical that business owners take the time to understand the impact of the Public Order 67, and specifically whether their business is deemed essential.
Am I stuck in my Contract?
The impact COVID-19 has had, and likely will continue to have on our economy has business owners asking questions like, “Am I stuck in my contract?”, and “What do I do if I can’t fulfill my contractual obligations?”.
COVID-19 and what it means for Lay-Offs, Terminations and Refusals to Work
When the Province of Manitoba declared a State of Emergency, they also announced that the statutory 8 week Lay-Off period will not run while we remain in this current State of Emergency. Employees who receive, or who have received, notice of a temporary Lay-Off, after March 1, 2020, will have their right to be paid in lieu of notice temporarily suspended until after the State of Emergency is over.
Understanding Employment Insurance Benefits Amidst COVID-19
It is important to remember that the programs and benefits that are currently in place are not stagnant. As governing bodies continue to respond to the influx of uncertainty it can be difficult to monitor and keep track of all the latest developments. We at PKF are committed to staying up to speed on this unprecedented situation, so you don’t have to.
Covid 19 – Am I Insured?
With businesses being forced to close many of our clients are asking if their business losses will be covered by their Business Interruption Insurance. The following will hopefully provide you and your business with the information you need to help answer this question.
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
On March 25, 2020 the Canada Emergency Response Act was enacted, and with it came these Canada Emergency Response Benefits which provide temporary income support in response to COVID-19. Designed to be a simple and accessible benefits program, these benefits can be applied for through Service Canada or the Canada Revenue Agency.
Work Sharing Program
The Work-Sharing Program is an adjustment program that assists Employers and Employees to avoid layoffs when there is a temporary reduction in business activity due to circumstances beyond the Employer’s control. The program supports Employees, who are eligible for EI benefits, while the Employer recovers.
3 Types of Wage Subsidies Available to Employers
The federal government announced on April 1st that the temporary wage subsidy would be increased to 75% and would be available for all businesses suffering at least a 30% loss in revenues due to COVID-19. This is a significant increase from the previously announced 10% subsidy.
Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP)
Export Development Canada and the Business Development Bank of Canada will provide more than $65 Billion in direct lending and financial support to businesses with viable business models whose access to financing would otherwise be restricted.
