The most important piece of information imparted to guests at the Niagara Centre Board of Trade and Commerce (NCBOTAC) luncheon this week was, when it comes to employment standards, “Stay current through constant review.”
The guest speaker at the Four Points Sheraton luncheon was Geoff Becker, Regional Coordinator Ministry of Labour, and he provided information about recent changes to the Employment Standards Act (ESA).
Becker noted that the Act has been changed three times in the past 16 months and he advised employers and employees alike to review the Act often to ensure compliance.
He noted that the six most sought-after topics in the Act include: minimum wage levels, hours of work and overtime, public holidays, vacation time and pay, leaves of absence and termination notice and pay.
Becker gave a quick overview of the particulars involved in each of these areas but the extensive information covered by the ESA requires careful study when issues arise for either employer or employee.
In fact, all six of these items have changed in recent months, along with a vast array of other rules enforced through the Act.
Becker noted that the website has been streamlined to include a self-service tool which brings most information into one location on the site.
Anyone wishing to update their knowledge can access the website and click on the “Employment Standards Self-Service Tool.” Within that page there is also a link entitled “Guide to Special Rules and Exemptions, which provides more specific information.
Becker told the audience that the department doesn't provide notes from his presentation, as things change so often. Afterward he reiterated his advice to the ThoroldNews, saying in order to keep current, “People looking for more information should go to Employment Standards website.”
Those interested can also subscribe and get the latest updates on labour news. Visit the Ministry of Labour website and click on the "Sign Up" button.
