Temporary layoff period extended to 16 weeks

VICTORIA—The province has extended the temporary layoff period to 16 weeks for COVID-19 related reasons.

Previously under the Employment Standards Act, a temporary layoff longer than 13 weeks in any 20-week period was considered a permanent layoff.

With a permanent layoff, employers are required to provide employees with written working notice of termination and/or pay severance to qualifying employees, based on their length of service.

Now, temporary layoffs relating to the COVID-19 crisis can be extended to 16 weeks, if the employee agrees.