Whether your client is negotiating a contract for a new position or has been let go from their job, it is crucial that they understand their rights as workers in Canada. Here are some websites you can share to help keep them informed – and to boost your own knowledge –this Labour Day.
This article was originally published in 2018 and was updated in 2021.
Canadian Foundation for Labour Rights
The Canadian Foundation for Labour Rights (CFLR) is a national voice devoted to promoting labour rights as an important means to strengthening democracy, equality and economic justice here in Canada and internationally. CFLR provides a forum for its members to promote and publish their independent research, policy papers and articles which are consistent with the objectives of the Foundation.
Government of Canada
The Canadian government’s federal labour standards page outlines key standards laid out in the Canada Labour Code. This includes information on hours of work, leave, termination, sexual harassment and wages. You can also access other resources such as the vacation pay calculator.
The government also has a page titled “Understand your rights as a foreign worker.” It covers topic such as farm workers’ rights, what to do if you are hurt at work and what to do if you lose your job.
For information about unions, the Government of Canada published a list of labour organizations in Canada in 2015.
ntuit QuickBooks – A complete guide to Canadian labour and employment laws
A comprehensive overview of the nation’s labour laws, exploring minimum employee rights and standards by topic as set forth in the Canada Labour Code, as well as provincial and territorial legislatures.
List of Unions/Associations (OMERS)
A list of the many labour unions in Canada. It is unclear when this list was last updated.
The Canadian Labour Congress
This website highlights issues and research in the labour movement, covering topics such as health and safety, economic policy, human rights and more. It also has an events listing of labour education opportunities.
The CLC’s COVID-19 Resource Centre page has information on income support, worker protection and COVID-19 recovery.
Workplace.ca
This website compares basic labour information for each province and territory, such as minimum wage, overtime regulations and compassionate care leave. Produced by IPM Management Training and Development Corporation, it also includes articles and resources for workplace professionals.
Provincial resources
Find province/territory specific information here: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland, Nunavut, Yukon, Northwest Territories.
Other Ontario-focused resources include the Decent Work & Health Network, the Fight for $15 and Fairness movement and the Ontario Nonprofit Network’s decent work campaign.
Did we miss something? Leave a comment below or send us a note at careerwise@ceric.ca if you have information that can help make our article even better.
