What’s Happening?
The usage of the federal government’s Employment Insurance (EI) work-sharing program has increased by approximately 75% since November 2024.
According to government data shared with Bloomberg News, more than 790 arrangements were active as of June 8. Employers in Ontario and Quebec make up nearly 90% of the current arrangements.
“Obviously, the program in a way camouflages the current economic uncertainty, but it is necessary,” Samuel Poulin, parliamentary assistant to Quebec’s economy minister, said in an interview.
“[The EI work-sharing program] saves jobs that would otherwise be lost, and companies are clear about that.”
SEE ALSO
• Steelmaker ArcelorMittal Closing Hamilton Facility, Affecting Dozens of Jobs
• 76% of Canadian Companies Bracing for Recession Amid US Trade War
• What’s Ontario Doing to Protect Businesses During the Trade Crisis?
In March, Ottawa unveiled a suite of business relief measures, including changes to the existing EI work-sharing program, to help Canadian companies affected by sweeping US duties.
Workplace Issue? Contact Us
If you’re dealing with a workplace issue during the ongoing Canada-US trade war, contact the experienced employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.
Our lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and BC have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals enforce their rights and secure the compensation they’re owed.
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