Summary
Since our March 23, 2020 E-Bulletin, there have been further important announcements of which employers should be aware (a few key details are listed below):
- In addition to Ontario announcing a shutdown of all non-essential businesses effective at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, Quebec also announced a similar shutdown effective at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. While Ontario’s shut down is for “at least 14 days”, Quebec has announced that the shutdown will last at least three weeks.
- The Ontario government’s list of essential businesses can be accessed here : https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2020/3/list-of-essential-workplaces.html
- According to the Ontario government’s newsroom release, employees will continue to be allowed to work remotely and a “1-800 number and website will be made available on Wednesday for any inquiries:” https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2020/03/ontario-orders-the-mandatory-closure-of-all- non-essential-workplaces-to-fight-spread-of-covid-19.html
- Quebec has announced that all schools will remain closed until at least May 1, 2020. Ontario also announced that schools will not reopen on April 6, 2020, but further details have not yet been released.
Given the exceptional and unprecedented situation, we expect further developments in the coming hours and days.
Israel Foulon’s Response to COVID-19
Israel Foulon is assessing the situation as it evolves, and is taking all necessary precautions within its workplace. However, please be aware that our offices remain open and are fully functioning. In the circumstances, we encourage our clients to contact us by phone and email to the extent possible. Voicemail messages left at our office phone numbers are immediately forwarded via email. All messages will be promptly responded to. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our clients and would be more than happy to assist you with concerns regarding COVID-19 or any other employment or labour matters.