Updates from Consult Carswell
Labour mobility legislation added in 3 provinces
Recently, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador have all either introduced or passed legislation to facilitate labour mobility. The legislation allows certified workers from other jurisdictions to practise their occupations in the provinces in accordance with the Agreement on Internal Trade, signed by all of the provinces and territories in the fall of 2008.
Nova Scotia can now fine OH&S violators
As of Jan. 15, 2010, the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Workforce Development has the ability to issue penalties when violations of health and safety laws are found in workplaces. Previously, monetary penalties could only be assigned by the courts. The administrative penalties will be significantly lower than court-ordered penalties, which can be up to $250,000. The maximum administrative penalties for first offenders are: employees, $500; supervisors, owners and self-employed people, $1,000; and employers, contractors and some others, $2,000. British Columbia, Manitoba and the Yukon already have penalty systems in place.
Minimum wage increases for Quebec, Nova Scotia
Quebec and Nova Scotia are planning minimum wage hikes in the near future. Nova Scotia’s general minimum wage will increase from $8.60 per hour to $9.20 on April 1 and Quebec’s will increase from $9 per hour to $9.50 on May 1.
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