Updates from Consult Carswell
Whistleblower protection for Saskatchewan public service
Public service employees in Saskatchewan would be protected from reprisals for reporting wrongdoing under the proposed Bill 147, The Public Interest Disclosure Act. Public service employers would need to designate a senior official to receive and manage information relating to wrongdoing brought to light by employees. Reprisals would be prohibited against employees who disclose information about wrongdoing, as long as they have reasonable grounds for believing it to be true. “Reprisals” would include dismissals, layoffs, suspensions, demotions, changes in job location, a reduction in wages or threats.
Airlines increasing accessibility
The Canadian Transportation Agency has given high marks to Canada’s six largest airlines for measures taken to comply with voluntary accessibility requirements to assist people with disabilities. The agency found all six airlines are improving in terms of providing onboard tactile row markers to assist persons with visual impairments in independently finding their seats and providing sufficient space for service dogs at travellers’ seats. The compliance report is available at www.otc-cta.gc.ca/doc.php?did=2370&lang=eng.
N.B. throne speech promises employment assistance to people with disabilities
In its throne speech, the newly elected New Brunswick government has promised to enhance access to on-the-job employment supports for persons with disabilities and to develop a program to help high school students with disabilities make the transition to the workforce. Also of interest to employers is news the government intends to introduce bills to amend the Pension Benefits Act and to regulate the use of cellular telephones while driving.
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