HRM takes a look back at the highest-ranking stories which got Canadians talking in the first half of 2016.
From precedent-setting human rights decisions to shocking revelations of workplace harassment – it’s certainly been an eventful year for Canada’s HR sector. Here, we look back at the highest ranking articles which got readers clicking in the first half of 2016.
January
Changes to compassionate care – what you need to know
On January 3, compassionate care leave under the Canada Labour Code was expanded from eight weeks to 28 weeks.
Almost 80 per cent of bosses breaking the law
Hundreds of Ontario workplaces were exposed for violating the ESA in early 2016.
Major Canuck company cuts 1,000 jobs
Despite posting record profits, the Canadian Pacific Railway announced plans to axe yet more jobs throughout the year.
February
Ontario court busts long-standing employment myth
An injury in an off-beat industry prompted the Ontario Court of Appeal to put an end to one major misconception.
Damning report alleges ‘toxic culture’ at major healthcare employer
Employees at the First Nations Health Authority expressed doubts that their employer could overhaul its poisonous environment.
Politician weighs in on contentious sick-note issue
It’s a topic that divides HR professionals but one NDP backbencher proposed a law that would severely restrict employer rights.
March
“We were dead wrong,” admits Google HR team
Set up to find the secret behind what makes a perfect team, the specialist task force admitted it was surprised by the results.
MasterCard CHRO on what millennials want
The global leader urged HR professionals not to overlook youngsters, who want more than a steady job and a decent pay packet.
$45K fine for IKEA’s shaky firing
The furniture giant has been rebuked after dismissing a worker over milkshake-related misconduct.
April
$3.2 million lawsuit against WSIB gets go ahead
A Hamilton-based doctor was given the green light to proceed with her seven-figure lawsuit against the organization and her employer.
Unprecedented ruling sees miscarriage classed as a disability
An interim decision by Ontario’s Human Rights Tribunal made waves all over the world when it categorised miscarriage as a disability.
WestJet hit by harassment allegation - again
A former flight attendant launched her second lawsuit against the Canadian carrier, making renewed claims of a sexist culture.
May
$175K fine for workplace fatality
An Ontario manufacturer was hit with a six-figure fine after violating its own safety rules.
Ghomeshi apologizes over “sexually inappropriate” conduct
The former star’s legal ordeal ended after he signed a peace bond and apologized to alleged victim Kathryn Borel.
“Irresponsible” author says maternity leave shouldn’t just be for mums
One high-profile author came under fire for suggesting “me-ternity” leave – time off specifically for employees without kids.
June
Deal reached for CPP reform
In June, finance ministers finally reached a preliminary deal to expand the Canada Pension Plan.
Billionaire CEO shares best interview questions
The tech entrepreneur who made a fortune by founding Dropbox revealed the five questions he relies on when looking for new recruits.
Doctor wins landmark workplace bullying lawsuit
The cardiologist’s $1.4 million settlement remains the largest award ever in Canada for damages to reputation and career.
January
Changes to compassionate care – what you need to know
On January 3, compassionate care leave under the Canada Labour Code was expanded from eight weeks to 28 weeks.
Almost 80 per cent of bosses breaking the law
Hundreds of Ontario workplaces were exposed for violating the ESA in early 2016.
Major Canuck company cuts 1,000 jobs
Despite posting record profits, the Canadian Pacific Railway announced plans to axe yet more jobs throughout the year.
February
Ontario court busts long-standing employment myth
An injury in an off-beat industry prompted the Ontario Court of Appeal to put an end to one major misconception.
Damning report alleges ‘toxic culture’ at major healthcare employer
Employees at the First Nations Health Authority expressed doubts that their employer could overhaul its poisonous environment.
Politician weighs in on contentious sick-note issue
It’s a topic that divides HR professionals but one NDP backbencher proposed a law that would severely restrict employer rights.
March
“We were dead wrong,” admits Google HR team
Set up to find the secret behind what makes a perfect team, the specialist task force admitted it was surprised by the results.
MasterCard CHRO on what millennials want
The global leader urged HR professionals not to overlook youngsters, who want more than a steady job and a decent pay packet.
$45K fine for IKEA’s shaky firing
The furniture giant has been rebuked after dismissing a worker over milkshake-related misconduct.
April
$3.2 million lawsuit against WSIB gets go ahead
A Hamilton-based doctor was given the green light to proceed with her seven-figure lawsuit against the organization and her employer.
Unprecedented ruling sees miscarriage classed as a disability
An interim decision by Ontario’s Human Rights Tribunal made waves all over the world when it categorised miscarriage as a disability.
WestJet hit by harassment allegation - again
A former flight attendant launched her second lawsuit against the Canadian carrier, making renewed claims of a sexist culture.
May
$175K fine for workplace fatality
An Ontario manufacturer was hit with a six-figure fine after violating its own safety rules.
Ghomeshi apologizes over “sexually inappropriate” conduct
The former star’s legal ordeal ended after he signed a peace bond and apologized to alleged victim Kathryn Borel.
“Irresponsible” author says maternity leave shouldn’t just be for mums
One high-profile author came under fire for suggesting “me-ternity” leave – time off specifically for employees without kids.
June
Deal reached for CPP reform
In June, finance ministers finally reached a preliminary deal to expand the Canada Pension Plan.
Billionaire CEO shares best interview questions
The tech entrepreneur who made a fortune by founding Dropbox revealed the five questions he relies on when looking for new recruits.
Doctor wins landmark workplace bullying lawsuit
The cardiologist’s $1.4 million settlement remains the largest award ever in Canada for damages to reputation and career.