On June 19, seasonal public transit service to Cavendish will resume, along with a new year-round route connecting Charlottetown and North Rustico.
Schedules for the Cavendish and North Rustico routes are available at transitpei.ca and fares for these routes can be booked as of June 7.
“Our government remains committed to keeping transit fees affordable for people at $2 per ride, free for youth 18 and under, and $10 and $20 for a monthly pass. We want to create the most affordable transit...
The Employment Standards Board of PEI is carrying out its annual review of the minimum wage, as required according to the Employment Standards Act(link is external) - section 5(2).
Deadline for Submissions
The deadline for submissions is June 15th, 2023.
Reporting to Islanders
One of the functions of the Employment Standards Board is to make recommendations to the Minister for changes to the provincial minimum wage based on public input. Information gathered during this process will help...
May 29 to June 3 marks National AccessAbility Week with the theme Including from the Start: From Possibilities to Practice.
National AccessAbility Week is a time to promote across communities and workplaces, and to celebrate the contributions of Islanders living with disability. It is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of Island people, businesses and organizations who are actively removing barriers to ensure persons living with disabilities have an equal chance to participate in all...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI is launching a multi‐hazard safety campaign on May 29 to remind workers and employers to always take time to work safely around asbestos, when excavating and trenching, and when working at heights.
From May 29 to July 31, Islanders will see and hear about the WCB’s “Don’t become the worst‐case scenario” campaign on the radio, on posters, on social media, on public transit and on the WCB website.
The WCB’s Occupational Health and...
Canadian Tourism Labour Market Snapshot
Overall, tourism employment grew (5.9%) over last month and the unemployment rate improved for all industry groups. There was also significant improvement in the unemployment rate across all industries when compared to the same month in 2019, 2020, and 2021. However, these data are artificially inflated by the decline in the overall size of the labour force from previous years.
A key observation this month is the positive growth in the May 2022...
Workers Compensation Board / Occupational Health and Safety Workplace Safety workshop on Young and Vulnerable Workers will be held May. 24 at the Hampton Inn in Charlottetown, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am. For in-person sessions, pre-registration is required as space is limited. Please register by emailing ohs@wcb.pe.ca or calling 902-368-5697.
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
The Province, in partnership with the Atlantic Police Academy (APA), is once again offering Islanders the opportunity to pursue a career in correctional services at a reduced cost.
The Accelerated Correctional Officer Training Program offers students the skills and knowledge in various areas such as intervention and de-escalation strategies, crisis management, Canadian law, ethics and professionalism, and workplace health and safety. The application period for the five-month program is...
The Workers Compensation Board of PEI announces that May is Canada's Melanoma Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that sunshine hours significantly INCREASE in May? Time to start that summer-sun protection routine! Check out this easy-to-read and practical resource on sun exposure: https://bit.ly/42n9d9k
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
Atlantic Physicians will now be able to practice in any other Atlantic province by opting in to the Atlantic Physician Registry.
This new Atlantic Registry delivers on a commitment made by Atlantic Premiers and Registrars from the four Atlantic Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons to make it easier for physicians to move around Atlantic Canada, supporting efforts to improve healthcare services for Atlantic Canadians.
The colleges have agreed on an annual fee of $500 for physicians on the...
Workforce Day 2023 (Tuesday, May 9, 2023) is an opportunity for employers from across Prince Edward Island to come together to collaborate, learn and share experiences that will help strengthen our workforce on Prince Edward Island.
The half-day event will include a dynamic panel discussion aimed at addressing the current state of our workforce and how to navigate environmental and economic challenges.
The event will be anchored by two keynote speakers Tareq Hadhad: founder and CEO of...
PEI employers who hire students during summer may qualify for the employee wage subsidy offered through two separate student employment programs:
Jobs for Youth Program
Through the Employment Development Agency (EDA), this program supports students aged 15-29 working 8-12 weeks during summer and. Students must be returning to school in the Fall.
Post-Secondary Student Program
Through SkillsPEI, supports full-time post-secondary students working a minimum of 12 to a maximum of...
Employers are facing unprecedented challenges in finding and retaining the workers they need during this period of economic recovery and growth.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced that international graduates with a recently expired or expiring post-graduation work permit (PGWP) will qualify for an additional or extended work permit to stay longer and gain additional work experience for up to 18 months. The PGWP Program allows...
The Atlantic Immigration Program is an employer-driven, federal immigration program(link is external) designed to help fill permanent labour shortages and skill gaps in your business by supporting skilled foreign workers and international graduates for permanent residency.
What is the process?
Designation is the first step for an employer interested in participating in the program. The designation process is designed to confirm that:
The Atlantic Immigration Program is the immigration...
The 2023 WCB Workplace Health and Safety Conference features workshops on a wide range of workplace safety topics, as well as a comprehensive trade show of products and services of interest to the region’s workplace health and safety community.
For speaker details, registration, and more visit: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
CHARLOTTETOWN: Delta Prince Edward, Saturday, April 1, 2023
REGISTER TODAY
The goal of the Tourism Job Fair is to provide job seekers, students, employers, training institutions and government agencies a central location to network. This event will focus on job seekers and tourism employers who are able to recruit, interview, hire and advertise all in one location. The Tourism Job Fair will be most effective for businesses that are currently recruiting, expecting to recruit in the near...
The province is increasing the financial recruitment incentives for registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and midwives and adding a new financial incentive for licensed practical nurses, to improve healthcare for people in all areas PEI.
These enhanced recruitment incentives will help to stabilize the healthcare workforce and make Prince Edward Island more competitive in this very challenging labour market.
The Recruitment Incentives include:
$5,000 for recently graduated and...
The province has announced changes to the Garnishee Act, the legislation that governs how much creditors are able to seize from a debtor's paycheque in Prince Edward Island.
The Garnishee Act comes into play after a court rules that one party owes money to another — in a child-support judment, for example. If the debtor doesn't pay that money, creditors can use the Garnishee Act to go directly to the debtor's employer and have part of their wages handed over.
The changes affect how...
The provincial government invites non-profit and charitable organizations to apply for a one-time grant to assist with Anti-Racism activities that benefit racialized and Indigenous communities in Prince Edward Island.
The Anti-Racism Grant is a new $100,000 initiative to help promote a culture of diversity and inclusion, address racism and strengthen the link between racial equality and community cohesion.
“The Government of PEI is committed to confronting issues of racism and...
The 2022 Labour Force Survey for Prince Edward Island highlights a record year for employment and wage figures and showcases the strength of PEI’s growing economy.
The Labour Force Survey Annual Report is compiled and published by PEI’s Statistics Bureau in partnership with data collected by Statistics Canada. The survey gives an overview and snapshot of the provincial employment market during the year, and compares those figures to previous years. Highlights for 2022 include:
...
All workers' compensation boards in Canada have signed the Interjurisdictional Agreement on Workers' Compensation (IJA) for the benefit of workers and employers whose business or work takes them into more than one province or territory in Canada.
The stated intent of the IJA is to
avoid the duplicate payment of employer premiums on workers’ earnings
assist workers or dependants when more than one jurisdiction may be involved in a claim
create a system to permit any Board to...
PEI Connectors invites your organization to participate in Advancing Career Connections 2023 (ACC 2023)!
Save the Date: Thursday, March 16, 2023
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
As an Island employer, this speed networking event is a great opportunity to connect with top talent in your industry, and make valuable connections. You'll share information about your organization's current and/or future job opportunities, meet professionally-trained job seekers, and help develop the next cohort of...
Did you know?
Employment Insurance (EI) has a program designed for self-employed people. If you run your own business or control more than 40% of your corporation’s voting shares, this program can provide you with access to special benefits as early as 12 months after registering. When you need to take time away from your business to care for yourself, your children or other family members, you could receive financial support of up to 55% of your earnings, up to a maximum amount. In 2023,...
If an employee has a disability, you may need to accommodate them (something different than the other employees) to assist with their participation in the workplace.
If an accommodation is needed, you must work with the employee to plan an accommodation which allows them to work to the best of their ability and you to have your needs met.
In some cases, you may need medical information to determine what limitations the employee has and what needs have to be...
For most people, the 2022 T4 filing due date is February 28, 2023. You have to give your employee their T4 slip and file your T4 return with the CRA on or before the T4 filing due date. The CRA considers your T4 return to be filed on time if it is received or if it is postmarked by the due date.
For complete details visit Canada Revenue Agency.
Amendments have been made to the following WCB policies to reflect the recent amendments to the Workers Compensation Act and General Regulations (January 20, 2023):
POL-14 Assessable Payroll and Assessment Billing
POL-41 Collateral Benefits
POL-81 Adjustments to Pensions
POL-85 Extended Wage Loss Benefits
POL-86 Temporary Wage Loss Benefits
POL-89 Impairment
For further details visit the Workers Compensation Board of PEI.
The PEI Office of Immigration is holding virtual information sessions to promote, educate and ensure Island employers are ready to hire and support foreign workers through the various immigration pathways. The session will include information on the role of the Office of Immigration, an overview of provincial immigration programs, employer responsibilities, recruitment missions, and a Q&A portion.
Click here to register for January 23 from 1:30-3:00PM.
Click here to...
Charlottetown, January 12, 2023 – The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI announces the implementation of the most significant benefit enhancement package for injured workers in the last decade, while continuing to maintain reasonable costs for Island employers.
Amendments to the Workers Compensation Act were unanimously passed during the fall 2022 sitting of the legislature, providing for a suite of incremental enhancements to worker benefits. The first set of enhancements are...
There will be two increases to minimum wages in 2023. The first increase will be by 80 cents on January 1, 2023 to $14.50 per hour. The second increase will be 50 cents on October 1, 2023 to $15.00 per hour.
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
Application period
You can apply between December 5, 2022, and January 30, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Description of this funding
The objective of the Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP) is to improve the integration of skilled newcomers into the Canadian labour market. This includes:
Developing and strengthening Canada’s foreign credential recognition assessment and recognition capacity
Contributing to improving labour market integration outcomes of...
The WCB Board of Directors has approved amendments to the following, in principle:
POL-30 Orthoses. Prostheses and Assistive Devices
POL-64 Health Care Providers
POL-92 Health Care Benefits – General Principles
The draft policies, along with the summaries of the proposed changes, are available in the Policy Consultation section of the Workers Compensation Board website. Feedback accepted by January 12, 2023.
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-92, Health Care Benefits - General Principles
POL-64, Health Care Providers - Roles and Responsibilities
POL-30, Orthoses, Prostheses and Assistive Devices
The policies have been placed on the WCB website (www.wcb.pe.ca) for viewing and comment. They will remain on the website until January 12, 2023 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish...
The pace of Canada’s economic recovery has made it hard for employers, including those in the tourism industry, to find the workers they need.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, announced that Canada is extending work permits to family members of temporary foreign workers. Expanding the eligibility for work permits to family members...
Changes have been made to the Emergency Leave Regulations under the Employment Standards Act to ensure workers have job protection when they are sick.
Emergency Leave under the Employment Standards Act was originally introduced during the pandemic to provide job-protected leave to employees required to self-isolate under orders made by the Chief Public Health Office. Now that the mandatory isolation requirement has ended, regulations have changed to continue supporting...
Canada benefits when diverse, engaged, and empowered youth are able to come from abroad to gain meaningful work and life experiences here.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, launched the 2023 International Experience Canada (IEC) Program with a 20% increase in the number of applicants who can apply. Applicants will be able to apply as of January 9, 2023.
IEC is a reciprocal program that allows Canadian and international...
A summer job plays an important role in a young person’s career. It puts money in their pockets for the rest of the year, and helps them get the skills they need to work toward a career of choice. The pool of capable, dynamic and diverse talent available to employers also increases during the summer months. The Canada Summer Jobs program creates opportunities for everyone by pairing opportunity with talent, which is key to maintaining a strong economy.
Today, the Minister for...
Canadians who are facing illness or injury need to feel confident that they are supported and that their jobs are protected as they recover. That is why the Government of Canada is taking action to improve Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.
Today, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, visited the Canadian Cancer Society’s (CCS) regional care centre in Vancouver, British Columbia to announce the permanent extension of...
Please be advised as of November 16, 2022, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is switching to the 2021 version of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, known as NOC 2021. All applications received at the Office of Immigration as of this date, regardless of the invitation to apply date, will be reviewed using this new classification system. Please note that some occupations have changed categories with the implementation of this new system and applicants must...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI is pleased to announce a 4.2% reduction of its estimated average assessment rate for Islander employers for 2023. This brings the 2023 rate to $1.37, down from $1.43 in 2022.
Assessment rates are set annually by the WCB Board of Directors and are calculated per $100 of assessable payroll. As of January 1, 2023, the maximum assessable earnings (MAE) will be $65,000. The MAE is the maximum amount of earnings an employer would pay premiums on per...
The Government of Prince Edward Island will be providing additional financial assistance to thousands of Islanders coping with increases in the cost of living, by providing an inflationary support payment to be distributed in January 2023 with the federal HST rebate.
The support will include:
A $500 payment for individuals with net income up to $100,000. Individuals with a net income of between $100,000 and $125,000 will receive a pro-rated payment.
A $1,000 payment for couples and...
The Emergency Income Payment for Remote and Impacted Workers is a one-time $500 payment for Islanders who work remotely for a business that is not located in Prince Edward Island and had an income loss of $500 or more caused by the hurricane.
This emergency payment is also for workers who were unable to work because of caregiving responsibilities for children 12 years of age or under that were impacted by childcare and/or school closures and had an income loss of $500 or more.
Who is...
Students in schools, universities, community colleges, and families in Atlantic Canada will now have access to more resources to promote skills development and how these skills can be used to facilitate a successful transition into the job market. These resources can be found in one location at Careers Atlantic Canada(link is external) launched today by the Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training (CAMET).
The new website is an expansion of the one launched by CAMET in 2021...
Apprenticeships offer a great way to get the hands-on work experience needed to pursue a career in the skilled trades. Employers play a fundamental role in Canada’s apprenticeship systems; however, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not always have the resources to offer apprenticeship training opportunities.
Organizations funded under the Apprenticeship Service will distribute financial incentives to SMEs who hire apprentices, and will provide additional supports, such as...
The Employment Standards Act Comprehensive Review Panel has been tasked with completing a review of the Employment Standards Act as well as its associated regulations, and Youth Employment Act .
The Review Panel was appointed and began work in October 2021.
What's Happening Now
The Review Panel has launched the second stage of the review and will be doing consultations with all interested members of the public through written submissions and in-person meetings.
The Review Panel...
The province is launching a new emergency payment program for workers impacted by power outages caused by Hurricane Fiona who have not been eligible for other income support programs.
The Emergency Income Payment for Remote and Impacted Workers is a one-time $500 payment for Islanders who work remotely for a business that is not located in Prince Edward Island and had an income loss of $500 or more caused by the hurricane.
This emergency payment is also for workers who were unable to work...
The Greater Charlottetown Chamber of Commerce was pleased to hear that the federal government is temporarily lifting the limit on the number of hours international students are allowed to work each week, in order to address the ongoing labour shortage.
Previously, international students enrolled full-time were not allowed to work off-campus for more than 20 hours a week.
This pilot study will run from November 15, 2023, to December 31, 2023.
“The Chamber knows this change will assist...
News release
The Government of Canada takes its responsibilities to protect temporary foreign workers (TFWs) very seriously. Ensuring the health and safety of these workers while they are in Canada is a key priority, and the Government is taking concrete action to better support them.
Today, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion Carla Qualtrough and Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) Sean Fraser announced that new...
News release
Canada’s Employment Insurance (EI) program is a critical part of Canada’s social safety net. It plays an important role in supporting workers during temporary periods of unemployment and in stabilizing the economy during economic hardships. That is why the Government of Canada is working with unions, employers and other stakeholders to modernize the EI program, so that it is fairer, more flexible and more responsive to the needs of current and future...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) has practical resources available to keep workers safe as the clean-up from post-tropical storm Fiona continues across the province.
The WCB has many resources available to support employers and workers alike and it has compiled these resources in one easy-to-find location on its website. The topics covered include safety for workers and contractors new to a job, using ladders or cranes, using a chainsaw, avoiding working fatigued and using gas or...
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (September 30) calls on all Canadians and Islanders to remember the history of residential schools, through the experience of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, and the intergenerational impacts of its legacy on First Nations and Indigenous peoples.
The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is the outcome of federal Bill C-5, sponsored by PEI Senator Brian Francis. As a direct response to the Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the...
The Wage Rebate for Impacted Workers – Fiona Response provides a 100 per cent wage rebate for businesses while closed due to power outage or significant physical damage which make operating impossible AND were not earning revenue.
Who is eligible for funding?
Eligibility criteria include:
Eligibility period September 25 to October 8.
Eligible while closed due to power outage or significant physical damage which make operating impossible AND were not earning revenue.
Must be...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-03, Travel and Related Expenses
POL-06, Prescription Eyewear
The policies have been placed on our website for viewing and comment. They will remain on our website until October 24, 2022 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish to review these policies and provide feedback, please do so online...
Prince Edward Island’s minimum wage will reach $15 per hour by the end of next year.
The first increase will be by 80 cents on January 1, 2023 to $14.50 per hour. The second increase will be 50 cents on October 1, 2023 to $15.00 per hour.
The Employment Standards Board reviews minimum wage annually and provides their recommendation to government after the review is complete.
To read the board’s report, visit: Minimum Wage Order (Board and Lodging).
Source: Government of Prince...
The day of the Commemorative Ceremony (September 19, 2022) for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned as the Queen of Prince Edward Island and Canada for 70 years, will be considered a one-time statutory holiday in Prince Edward Island.
In response to the federal announcement, earlier today provincial Cabinet met to make a regulation change to declare September 19, 2022 a statutory holiday for all workers that are provincially regulated. Provincial government offices, schools in the...
Program Description
The Gender, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (GEDI) & Community Enhancement Program is a pilot program aimed at supporting projects or initiatives that directly contribute to a more inclusive PEI.
Eligible Applicants
Non-profit organizations/associations
Indigenous governments, bands, councils, or non-profits
Municipalities
Members of equity seeking groups
Advocacy groups
Registered charities
Social enterprises
Non-governmental public or private...
eForce PEI will move from CoursePark to SkillsPass to provide an improved learning and administrative experience. This move will provide you with a more intuitive way to find, book, and manage your employees’ training.
When will the move be taking place?
The move will be taking place between August 29 – August 31, 2022 (tentative).
August 29, 2022: eForce PEI will be offline to prepare for the move. Any training that is not complete before this date will not be moved to...
Did you know?
Funding is available to assist with employee recruitment and retention and to encourage you to provide career opportunities to post-secondary students and unskilled employees, new graduates and internationally trained workers.
Special Projects Program:
All non-profit organizations in PEI and municipal and provincial government departments and agencies in PEI can apply for Special Projects wage funding to create employment opportunities for unemployed Islanders who have...
Now more than ever, skilled tradespeople are in high demand to fill well-paying jobs and build rewarding careers. Approximately 700,000 skilled trades workers are expected to retire in Canada by 2028, creating an ever-growing need to recruit and train thousands more. That is why the Government of Canada is making targeted investments to remove barriers and get more Canadians the apprenticeship training they need to build good, well-paying careers in the skilled trades.
Today, the...
The Why, What and How of the Duty to Accommodate to the Point of Undue Hardship
Duty to Accommodate to the Point of Undue Hardship
Under the Human Rights Act, employers and unions have a legal duty to accommodate the needs of employees with protected characteristics who are negatively impacted by an employment requirement, rule or standard.
Why does the duty to accommodate exist?
Accommodation is necessary to ensure that employees with protected characteristics have...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-09 Hearing Loss
POL-90 Time Frame Limitations for Claims Filing and Invoicing
POL-93 Return to Work
POL-117 Vocational Rehabilitation
POL-85 Extended Wage Loss Benefits
The policies have been placed on WCB's website for viewing and comment. They will remain on the website until August 28, 2022 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish...
The Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) is looking for dynamic youth who want to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to their communities. Through this process, youth volunteer their time to build a more accessible Canada.
Eligibility
We want you and what you have to offer, if you are:
between 15 and 30 years of age
determined to make a difference in your community
you want to develop valuable skills and gain key experience, and
authorized to work legally in Canada
Apply...
With hot summer weather in the forecast, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) reminds Island workers and employers to work with sun safety in mind.
Excessive exposure to UV rays from the sun can cause damage to the skin and eyes, and elevated temperatures can increase the risk of heat stress and heat stroke. Employers and workers should be aware of the risks related to sun exposure and ensure that effective precautions are taken to protect those who are required to work in the sun and...
As an employer, you have a responsibility to protect your workers, whatever their age or experience. What you may be just discovering is how challenging it can be to fulfill those responsibilities when dealing with young workers.
Youth can be an exciting time filled with enthusiasm, creativity, high energy, adventure, and fun. These are admirable qualities, and ones we would not want to discourage in our youth. These very qualities, however, can sometimes lead young workers into dangerous...
2022 Minimum Wage Review
The Employment Standards Board of PEI is carrying out its annual review of the minimum wage, as required according to the Employment Standards Act - section 5(2).
Deadline for Submissions
The deadline for submissions has been extended to July 14th, 2022.
Reporting to Islanders
One of the functions of the Employment Standards Board is to make recommendations to the Minister for changes to the provincial minimum wage based on...
Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island - Tourism Workforce Action Plan 2022
The primary deliverable of this project was the development of a three-year Tourism Workforce Action Plan for Prince Edward Island. The Action Plan has been designed to offer tangible and measurable goals, objectives and actions that will address the gaps, challenges, and opportunities emerging through the project consultation and research. The strategic recommendations and action plan will position the...
On July 6, the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce released a Workforce Programs document to remind and inform its members of all the different types of federal and provincial funding available when it comes to hiring and training workers. This important information is provided in an easy-to-access format, especially as businesses face increasing workforce issues across the Island. To view our Workforce Programs document - listing grants, tax credits, and programs -...
Public transit to Cavendish and surrounding north shore communities will start on July 4, 2022.
With four round-trips seven days a week from Summerside and Charlottetown, the summer transit route to Cavendish will support employers and employees, as well as tourists visiting the popular attractions of the north shore. The service will operate until September 4. The Province of Prince Edward Island will use its fleet of electric school buses to operate the route.
“Using our existing fleet...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) is seeking feedback on proposed amendments to the Workers Compensation Act and General Regulations to enhance benefits for injured workers and supports for workplace fatalities.
The purpose of workers compensation is to reduce the impact of workplace injuries. The WCB Board of Directors continuously monitors trends and emerging issues to ensure that injured workers are compensated fairly and supported in their recovery and return to work while maintaining...
Did you know?
Employers cannot discriminate against an employee because the employee has:
made a complaint under the Act; or
testified or will testify in proceedings related to the enforcement of the Act.
Employers cannot take or threaten to take any reprisal, or discriminate or threaten to discriminate, because the employee has:
reported or proposed to report an activity to a lawful authority* that is or is likely to result in an offence pursuant to a PEI or federal Act;...
Did you know that Section 5, 39.1 of the Employment Standards Act requires that employers post the following in a conspicuous place in the workplace:
all relevant minimum wage orders and any other notice of any order made by the board related to wages;
all orders made pursuant to the Act relating to wages, hours of work or any other condition or term of employment governed by the Act and regulations.
Source: Prince Edward Island Employment Standards Act
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) requests your feedback on proposed amendments to the Workers Compensation Act and General Regulations to enhance worker benefits.
These amendments will:
Enhance the current benefit rate for injured workers.
Increase the current Consumer Price Index (CPI) cap on annual cost of living increases for Extended Wage Loss (EWL), pension and survivor benefits recipients.
Adjust the current maximum assessable earnings level to better reflect current...
If you've wondered where your wage rates compare with other jurisdictions, the Canada Job Bank has detailed information in its Trend Analysis section. Find out more about the low, median, and high ranges of various occupations here. Keep in mind that this is direct compensation only and excludes discretionary benefits such as pensions, employee assistance plans, extended health and dental plans, wellness plans, etc.
Source: Government of Canada Job Bank.
PEI BioAlliance recently unveiled an HR Strategy 2025: Breaking Barriers - Driving Growth. For background information visit the Employment Journey's interview with the Manager, HR Strategy with PEI BioAlliance: Interview
View the complete HR Strategy
Apprenticeships offer a great way to get the hands-on work experience needed to pursue a career in the skilled trades. Employers play a fundamental role in Canada’s apprenticeship systems, however many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not always have the resources to offer apprenticeship training opportunities.
Organizations funded under the Apprenticeship Service will distribute financial incentives to SMEs who hire apprentices, and provide additional supports, such as help...
Did you know?
On July 1, 2021, Prince Edward Island’s working-age population (ages 15 to 64) reached 106,631, up 1,945 or 1.9% from July 1, 2020. The national growth rate was 0% over the same period.
For more information about Prince Edward Island's population growth visit: WorkPEI's Economic Dashboard
Source: WorkPEI
The Non-Disclosure Agreements Act came into force effective May 17, 2022.
IMPORTANT: While harassment is not specifically addressed in the Code, the PEI Human Rights Tribunal has provided an information sheet that states it considers harassment to be discrimination under the Act if the unwelcome behaviour can be linked to a prohibited ground of discrimination. It also states that under human rights law, sexual harassment is considered discrimination based on sex.
You should contact a...
Did you know that Victoria Day (May 24, 2022) is not one of the eight (8) recognized paid statutory holidays on PEI? For more information visit: Employment Standards PEI
If you are interested in Mental Health Training for Farmers, Agrisafe has a series of online events happening. QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer) is available at: AgriSafe Network
Source: PEI Federation of Agriculture
Pay Transparency
Effective 1 June 2022
Employers cannot seek pay history information from applicants
A new section (5.8) has been added to the Employment Standards Act that provides that no employer may seek pay history information about an applicant.
Applicant may still voluntarily and without prompting disclose pay history information to an employer.
Employers may still ask applicants about pay...
The PEI Labour Rebate (PLR) supports the growth of Island businesses through a refundable labour rebate on incremental job creation. Employment growth must be linked to the development, expansion and/or commercialization of new products, processes, and services that will be sold primarily beyond the borders of PEI.
Who is eligible for PEI Labour Rebate?
To be an eligible applicant, a business must be located in Prince Edward Island and:
be registered to conduct business and actively...
Changes have been made to the provincial COVID-19 Special Leave Fund to support Islanders now that federal Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), have expired.
Previously, the provincial fund provided up to three days per week, on two separate occasions, to a maximum of six days of wage supports for workers and self-employed people who:
are unable to work due to illness, COVID-19 testing or are required to self-isolate;
have children...
Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, announced that Prince Edward Island will be ending the mandate to wear masks in indoor public places on May 6, 2022. Starting on May 6th masks will be highly recommended in most indoor settings and will still be required in some high risk areas such as hospitals, long term and community care homes, public transit and for students and staff in K-12 when they are on buses and when not seated in class.
Effective Thursday, April 28, at 12:00 pm...
Students training on Prince Edward Island for work as resident care workers can now have their tuition costs paid in full.
In order to increase the number of trained people available to care for senior Islanders and others in care, the Department of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture, through SkillsPEI, will pay the costs of tuition for any Canadian resident pursuing RCW training at Holland College(link is external), College de l’Ile(link is external) or Marguerite Connolly Training...
PEI employers who hire students during summer may qualify for the employee wage subsidy offered through two separate student employment programs:
Jobs for Youth Program through Employment Development Agency (EDA) supports students working 8-12 weeks during summer and returning to school.
Post-Secondary Student Program through Skills PEI supports students working 12-14 weeks during summer and entering or returning to full-time post-secondary studies.
In some cases,...
Effective April 1, 2022 the minimum wage rate on Prince Edward Island will be adjusted from $13.00 per hour to $13.70 per hour as per the Minimum Wage Order. More details can be found here: Minimum Wage Order PEI
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
With new rural transit routes in Prince County, Islanders can now use public transit to get from tip-to-tip across the province.
Beginning Tuesday, April 19, a rural public transit route between Tignish and Charlottetown, through Summerside, Borden-Carleton and south shore communities will operate twice daily. A second route will provide inter-community transit in the West Prince region and midday to Summerside. These new routes will support Prince County residents who need to get to and...
Occupational Health and Safety Virtual Event Series: Mental Health and the Workplace
March 31, 2022
9:00-11:30 a.m. via Zoom (Free)
Workplaces can play an essential part in maintaining positive mental health. When the workplace is unsafe, stressful or unhealthy, both the organization and the workers are impacted. Everyone benefits from a healthy workplace.
For many, employers and workers alike, the concept of workplace psychological health and safety is new and may feel overwhelming....
Growing a skilled workforce is critical to ensuring a strong, resilient future for all Atlantic Canadians and the success of Indigenous organizations, businesses and communities is essential to building a strong, innovative, and inclusive Atlantic Canadian economy. Inspiring young Islanders to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math; known as STEAM, can help build greater economic security, and support a more diversified workforce.
Today, Sean Casey, Member of...
Step 2 of Prince Edward Island’s Moving On Plan, a guide to help the province transition out of the COVID-19 pandemic, begins today, Thursday, March 17.
“Although step 2 of the Moving On Plan means some public health restrictions are now lessened, it does not mean the pandemic is over, it means we are adjusting to living with the virus. Everyone should continue to assess their own level of risk before deciding to attend events and stay home if we are not feeling well. Measures such as...
As part of the $20 million dollar fund to provide support to Islanders because of the rising cost of living, the Province of Prince Edward Island and T3 Transit have partnered to reduce the price of a monthly bus pass for Islanders.
Effective Monday, March 14, the cost of a public transit pass for the month of April will be:
$20 for adults; and
$10 for students (18+) and seniors
April passes will also be honored for the rest of March and a single pass will grant riders access...
The goal of the North Shore Tourism Job Fair is to provide job seekers, students, employers, training institutions and government agencies a central location to network. This event will focus on job seekers and tourism employers who are able to recruit, interview, hire and advertise all in one location. The Tourism Job Fair will be most effective for businesses that are currently recruiting, expecting to recruit in the near future, or those wanting to promote their services to job...
A new strategy is available to help guide the tourism industry through the 2022-2023 tourism seasons.
The strategy, Charting the Course of Tourism in PEI for the Next Two Years, outlines three objectives:
optimize recovery potential for 2022;
set in motion conditions to support higher revenues from tourism for the next two years;
begin to fundamentally shift how tourism is developed and delivered in PEI beyond 2023.
“As we prepare for the upcoming season, it’s more...
Canada has been closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine, and remains steadfast in support of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is taking additional steps to support Ukrainians and people residing in Ukraine, and to make it easier and faster for Canadian citizens, permanent residents and their accompanying immediate family members to return to Canada.
As part of the Government of Canada’s response, IRCC has taken the decision...
Engaging youth in agriculture with meaningful work opportunities is critical to the development of Canada’s next generation of farmers.
Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of up to $3.7 million to enhance the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) and support approximately 300 jobs for youth in the agriculture sector. The YESP aims to support agri-food employers and provide young Canadians between the...
The province’s Anti-Racism Table is helping to support community-led anti-racism work through the new Anti-Racism Microgrant funding initiative launched today.
“If we are to truly move the mark and foster meaningful and sustainable progress to address racism in our province, we must all work together – government, community and individuals – and support one another,” said Prince Edward Island’s Anti-Racism Table chair Stephanie Arnold.
“As a Table, it is important that we not...
The 2022/23 school calendar is now available. Next year’s calendar is similar to other years, with the major changes being the date of Winter Wellness Day, a return to having a School Goals Day in September, and a two week stretch without classes in February to support the Canada Winter Games.
“The calendar committee strives to find the best balance of learning time for both students and teachers. I am very pleased to see that they have protected a significant amount of uninterrupted...
As the early learning and child care sector continues to grow in Prince Edward Island, the province is launching a new one-time Return to the Early Childhood Education Profession Grant, to help recruit early childhood educators back to the sector.
The Return to the ECE Profession Grant will provide a one-time $5,000 grant to eligible early childhood educators, who have worked outside the sector for a minimum of two (2) consecutive years and are ready to rejoin the early years...
CHARLOTTETOWN: Delta Prince Edward, Saturday, March 5, 2022
The TIAPEI Job Fair is following the general COVID-19 specific policies and procedures we must have in place to operate under the Public Health Order. If there is a further relaxation of restrictions and/or exhibitor cancellation you will be advised.
To join the Exhibitor Wait-list please contact Debbie Mol by email at dmol@tiapei.pe.ca or by phone at 902-566-5008.
See the list of 2022 Charlottetown exhibitors
See the...
The Employment Standards Act Comprehensive Review Panel has been tasked with completing a review of the Employment Standards Act as well as its associated regulations, and Youth Employment Act .
The Review Panel was appointed and began work in October 2021.
What's Happening Now
The Review Panel is currently undertaking the first stage of the review and has reached out to a diverse group of stakeholders, comprised of industry groups, unions, and other umbrella organizations...
The COVID-19 Small Business Support Grant will provide a grant to eligible businesses ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 based on the businesses November 2021 gross payroll or revenue.
Who is eligible for funding?
Eligibility criteria include:
Eligible businesses are those businesses closed to in-person services restricted by the enhanced Public Health Measures introduced on January 18, 2022, including:
Gyms, group fitness classes and indoor recreational facilities, bingo halls,...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-76, Responsibilities of Recovering Workers
POL-NEW, Employer Role In Worker Recovery and Return to Work
The policies have been placed on the WCB website for viewing and comment. They will remain on the website until March 3, 2022 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish to review these policies and provide feedback, please do so online at...
Prince Edward Island is no longer accepting applications under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has announced that the new Atlantic Immigration Program will launch on January 1, 2022. Atlantic Immigration Program website(link is external)
Employer designations under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program will expire on December 31, 2021. To participate in the new Atlantic Immigration Program, employers will need to be redesignated. As a...
The province is launching a new COVID-19 support program for industries impacted by the latest public health restrictions.
The Wage Rebate for Impacted Industries provides a 25 per cent wage rebate on payroll for businesses of impacted industries, such as full-service restaurants and fitness centers, for the period of January 19 to 31, 2022. To review eligibility criteria and apply, visit: COVID-19 Wage Rebate for Impacted Industries.
The Wage Rebate for Impacted Industries can be...
Island correctional workers, volunteer and career firefighters, search and rescue volunteers, paramedics, police officers and public safety communicators can access a new, free, online mental health support program.
In partnership with the University of Regina and the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT), the Province is launching Public Safety Calls(link is external), a new bilingual mental health program designed to support the unique needs of...
A rotational worker is a PEI resident who travels routinely outside of PEI and is on a set schedule. You may be eligible to apply as a rotational worker if:
you spend at least 50% of your time working outside of the province and 21 or fewer consecutive days in the province when not at work, or
you do same day work travel outside of PEI and are entering workplaces and/or interacting with people as part of your work outside of PEI, and are travelling frequently (1 or more...
Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, has announced enhanced public health measures that will remain in place until Monday, January 31, 2022.
“Our numbers are going in the wrong direction and we are facing a serious situation. We have all been doing our best to contain the spread of COVID-19, and while it is helping, we are experiencing concerning trends. Now is the time to increase our measures to balance taking steps to protect those who are...
An employer who hires a young person under 16 years of age must follow the Prince Edward Island Youth Employment Act as well as the Employment Standards Act for these workers.
Work restrictions
Young persons under the age of 16 years of age cannot be employed in activities that are likely to be unsafe or harmful to their well-being, including construction work.
In addition, young persons cannot be employed:
between 11 pm and 7 am
during normal school hours except if involved in...
If an employee has a disability, you may need to accommodate them (something different than the other employees) to assist with their participation in the workplace.
If an accommodation is needed, you must work with the employee to plan an accommodation which allows them to work to the best of their ability and you to have your needs met.
In some cases, you may need medical information to determine what limitations the employee has and what needs have to be accommodated. Each case is...
The Wage Support for Potato Exporters was launched to assist the Prince Edward Island potato industry and trucking companies impacted by the closure of the US border to the export of table stock potatoes. The program will provide wage reimbursement to companies that maintain their staff during the border closure.
Who Is Eligible To Participate?
Eligible Information - Employers
Eligible employers include;
Registered private sector businesses on Prince Edward Island operating as farms,...
Changing contribution rates now would require approval from Parliament and 7 provinces
Jan. 1 is going to feel like Groundhog Day for all those paying into the Canada Pension Plan. Like last year, contributions are going up again by more than originally planned, and the reason again lies with the unique impacts of the pandemic on the labour market.
Here's a rundown of what's happening.
Why CPP premiums are going up
The increase is part of a multi-year plan approved by...
The province is reopening the COVID-19 Emergency Payment for Workers program to help Islanders get through the recent public health restrictions.
The COVID-19 Emergency Payment for Workers program provides financial support to residents of Prince Edward Island who had employment impacts as a result of the Covid – 19 public health measures announced December 17, 2021. This emergency payment program is a one-time lump sum payment of $500 from the Government of Prince Edward Island. This...
The WCB Board of Directors has approved amendments to the following policies:
POL-19, Employer Registration
POL-22, Personal Coverage
Information about the amendments is in the History section of each policy. The WCB thanks all stakeholders who participated in the consultation process. A number of non-substantive changes were made to associated policies, including POL-15, Clearance Certification, which was rescinded as it is no longer required.
Source: Workers Compensation Board...
Changes will soon come into effect for the Workers Compensation Board’s Experience Rating Program. The Experience Rating Program offers a financial incentive to employers to invest in safety and work disability prevention programs by adjusting assessment rates based on their claims cost history.
There are two main changes to the Experience Rating Program:
Previously, the program was limited to employers who have paid at least $3,000 in total WCB assessments over three years. We will...
The Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit (CWLB) gives temporary income support to employed and self-employed people who cannot work due to a COVID-19 lockdown.
The CWLB is only available when a COVID-19 lockdown order is designated for your region. Your region may be designated if the lockdown lasts for 14 days or more.
If you are eligible for the CWLB, you can receive $300 ($270 after taxes withheld) for each 1-week period. You may apply for any weeks your region is eligible...
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on young job seekers, with marginalized youth continuing to be among those most disproportionately impacted. Canada’s employers are also facing extraordinary challenges hiring the staff that they need to help recover from the economic crisis caused by COVID-19. That is why our government is taking action to ensure that Canadian employers and young people have the supports they need to succeed, which is key to...
Work Disability Prevention
There is a strong connection between the health and well-being of people and their work environments. When people feel valued, respected, and satisfied in their jobs and work in safe, healthy environments, they are likely to be more productive and committed to their work. This approach is the foundation for successful work disability prevention when a worker is injured or ill. Work disability occurs when a worker is unable to remain at work or return to work due to...
This National Addictions Awareness Week, Islanders are encouraged to learn more about the supports and services offered across Prince Edward Island.
PEI addictions services provides a wide range of programs for various forms of substance abuse and addiction, including alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, gambling and smoking. Programs are also available for the loved ones of those struggling with addiction.
“It is extremely important that Islanders who are struggling with addictions...
News release
November 24, 2021—Ottawa, Ontario—Canada is one of the top destinations in the world, with millions of people from across the globe hoping to come here every year to settle, visit or work. To navigate the immigration system, many people turn to consultants or other services for help. While nearly all operate honestly, unscrupulous actors can exploit the system and take advantage of people. That’s why the Government of Canada is strengthening the regulation of...
The proposed Non-Disclosure Agreement Act would make P.E.I. the first province in Canada to limit the use of NDAs in cases of sexual misconduct. The bill would allow parties to enter such an agreement in cases of harassment or discrimination only if it's in accordance with the wishes of the person who made the allegations.
The Bill has passed 2nd reading and is with the Committee (November 16, 2021). The Act is NOT yet in force until it is proclaimed by Royal Assent.
Read the Act in its...
Bill 119 (a Private Members Bill) will come into force on June 1, 2022.
It is important to read this in its entirety as it addresses the requirement to disclose pay in publicly posted advertisements and other such related matters pertaining to pay.
https://docs.assembly.pe.ca/download/dms?objectId=2e8abdf3-3f95-463c-b2b0-3ba944edce0d&fileName=bill-119.pdf
A new apprenticeship program, developed together with the provincial government, Holland College, PEI Trucking Sector Council and PEI Agricultural Sector Council, will support industry needs and strengthen the province’s labour force.
Starting January 2022, Holland College will deliver the Truck and Transport, Heavy Duty Equipment and Agricultural Equipment Technical Training Program, with practical training on specialized equipment from the three industries. The program will be based at...
Remembrance Day (Thursday, November 11, 2021) is a statutory holiday in Prince Edward Island. Provincial government offices, schools in the Public Schools Branch and la Commission scolaire de langue française, as well as many businesses, will be closed for the day.
For event details, visit: Prince Edward Island Royal Canadian Legion Provincial Command
For details on statutory holidays visit: Government of Prince Edward Island: Paid Holidays
General Duties
Per the Act, employers must take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to protect the health and safety of persons at or near the workplace.
Per the PEI COVID-19 FAQs, if an employer determines that someone is posing an undue risk to the health and safety of individuals in the workplace, they are obligated to address the risk. This could involve refusing to provide services to a person engaged in the risky behaviour or providing adequate protection to their...
The results of a new survey released Tuesday highlight just how widespread of a problem sexual harassment in the workplace is on P.E.I.
"Workplace sexual harassment on P.E.I. is quite similar to workplace sexual harassment in other places in Canada and the world," said Laura Bird, the project manager with Shift, an initiative of the P.E.I. Human Rights Commission hoping to change workplace culture.
"It happens to both people who identify as male as well as people who identify as...
Prince Edward Island’s minimum wage will increase by 70 cents to $13.70 per hour on April 1, 2022.
The Employment Standards Board reviews minimum wage annually and provides their recommendation to the Government after the review is complete. To read the board’s report, visit www.princeedwardisland.ca/minimumwage .
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
If you are an employer you cannot discriminate between employees by paying one employee less for what is largely the same work. If the work needs the same level of education, skill, experience, effort, responsibility, and is performed under similar working conditions, then you must pay the same rate of pay regardless of ages, sex or any other prohibited ground of discrimination.
Exceptions:
An employee who has been employed with you longer or has more experience may receive higher pay...
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has launched a new mobile app to help make workplace health and safety resources on COVID-19 accessible to workers in Canada.
The CCOHS Safe Work App hosts the Centre’s collection of over 120 COVID-19 resources, including industry and sector-specific tip sheets, videos, infographics, other guidance materials created to help workplaces keep their workers and customers safe.
As employers continue to implement vaccination policies in their workplaces, practical questions have arisen as to how to manage employee terminations should there be continued refusals to comply with such policies. Employment and Social Development Canada ("Service Canada") has recently updated its website to provide guidance on how to issue records of employment for employees during the COVID-19 pandemic and in particular, in the context of employment impacts arising from vaccination...
Proposed upcoming changes to Bereavement Leave (Passed First Reading in Legislative Assembly on October 19, 2021):
Adds a new entitlement to bereavement leave when a pregnancy ends due to prenatal pregnancy loss or stillbirth, whether it is the pregnancy of:
the employee;
the employee's spouse/partner;
the employee's former spouse/partner if the employee would have been a biological parent of the child;
a surrogate if the employee would have been the intended parent...
The Government of Canada is proposing to introduce legislation for the new Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit, which would provide income support to workers whose employment is interrupted by specific government-imposed public health lockdown scenarios and who are unable to work due to such restrictions.
The new benefit would be:
$300 a week.
Strictly available to workers whose work interruption is a direct result of a government-imposed public health lockdown.
Available until May 7,...
With one of the most successful vaccination campaigns in the world, many businesses safely reopening, and employment now back to pre-pandemic levels, Canadians have reached a turning point in the fight against COVID-19. The government has now surpassed its target of creating a million new jobs. Canada is on the road to economic recovery—but some areas of the country and economy continue to need targeted support.
Today, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-22, Personal Coverage
POL-19, Employer Registration
These policies will remain on https://www.wcb.pe.ca/ until November 19, 2021 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish to review these policies and provide feedback, please do so online at http://www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/PolicyConsultation.
Should you have any questions or comments about these...
The Office of the Employer Advisor provides Prince Edward Island employers and employer associations with free and confidential advice, assistance, representation and education on matters under the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, independent of the Workers Compensation Board.
What can the employer advisor do for me?
The employer advisor can offer you independent advice, representation and training in:
• managing claims
• appealing...
A thorough review of the Employment Standards Act is underway to ensure it is current and meets the needs of Islanders across the province.
A three-person panel was established to complete the review, they are:
Chairperson – Andrew Thompson
Employer Representative – Isabelle Keeler
Employee Representative – Hans Connor
“It has been approximately fifteen years since the last comprehensive review of the PEI Employment Standards Act, including the Youth Employment Act, and I...
An Act to Amend the Employment Standards Act (No. 2): First reading on October 19, 2021: ow.ly/SUOm50Gurok. This proposed amendment (adding Truth and Reconciliation Day observed on September 30 to the list of paid statutory holidays) is not yet in force. It must still pass through several stages before it receives Royal Assent and comes into force.
Further details anticipated to come.
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
A new single point of access phone line for mental health and addictions services will make it easier for Islanders to find and receive appropriate and timely care.
Islanders can access the mental health and addictions phone line at 1-833-553-6983. Mental health professionals will be answering the calls seven days a week, 24 hours a day, ensuring that Islanders have assistance finding and accessing mental health and addictions help. The Government of PEI has partnered with Medavie Health...
Testing employees is controversial. Random testing for alcohol and drugs is not acceptable, even for those in a safety-sensitive position. Exceptions to testing are rare, but do exist.
As an employer, you are required accommodate a dependence on alcohol or drugs up to the point that it doesn't cause undue hardship to you or the workplace. This may look like flexible shifts to allow the employee to participate in a recovery program, or placing the employee in a less safety-sensitive...
PEI Vax Pass info and resources are available for businesses, services, and events. Proof of vaccinations is now mandatory as of October 5.
What is the PEI Vax Pass?
The PEI Vax Pass is a new policy that requires individuals 12 years of age and older to be fully vaccinated and show proof of vaccination to enter some venues or attend certain events. The Vax Pass will not be needed to enter essential, non-discretionary services such as grocery stores or healthcare.
Visit Government of...
Reconciliation in Canada means bringing together Indigenous peoples and Canadian settlers to repair their relationship that was tarnished by the colonization of Canada. Supporting reconciliation means working to overcome the inequality between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous citizens. Acknowledging the truth and acting on reconciliation is recognizing we are all treaty people.
It’s about people coming together, taking ownership, collaborating and ultimately forming a strong and...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) is pleased to notify you about the upcoming enhancements to the WCB Experience Rating Program for employers.
The Experience Rating Program offers a financial incentive for employers to create safer workplaces by adjusting assessment rates based on their claims costs history. You may recall that in 2019 the WCB commenced a review of the program to ensure that it is fair, effective and easily understood. As a result of this review, which included...
Canadians will be heading to the polls today, Monday, September 20th, 2021, to elect their next Federal Government. Employers have a number of obligations to employees under the Canada Elections Act, SC 2000, c 9 (the "Act").
Under the Act, every employee who is eligible to vote is entitled to three consecutive hours, during polling hours on Election Day, to cast their vote. If these hours are not available outside of work hours, an employer does have the right to determine what time...
The Canada Employment Insurance Commission (CEIC) today made available the Actuarial Report and its summary for the 2022 Employment Insurance (EI) premium rate. The rate is set at $1.58 per $100 of insurable earnings for employees and $2.21 for employers who pay 1.4 times the employee rate, which is unchanged from the 2020 and 2021 premium rate.
Each year, the CEIC is responsible for setting the annual premium rate based on the seven-year break-even rate forecasted by the EI Senior Actuary....
A reminder to all Islanders that the COVID-19 Special Leave Fund is available to provide temporary support for those not eligible for federal benefits.
The fund provides up to three days of wage supports for workers and self-employed people who:
are unable to work due to illness, COVID-19 testing or are required to self-isolate;
have children under the age of 12 or family members in need of supervised care;
do not qualify for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit or the Canada Recovery...
As a Canadian employer who has seen a drop in revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of your employee wages. This subsidy will enable you to re-hire workers, help prevent further job losses, and ease your business back into normal operations.
Next deadline
October 7, 2021:
Last day to apply for claim period 14
Next period opens
October 1, 2021: First day you can apply for claim period 20
For more information visit the Canada Revenue...
Employment income
When you pay employment income such as salaries, wages, or commissions, you have to determine your employee’s province or territory of employment so you can withhold the proper deductions. This depends on whether your employee physically reports for work at your establishment or "place of business".
For income tax, CPP and EI withholding purposes, an "establishment of the employer" is any place or premises in Canada that is owned, leased or rented by you and where one...
The PEI Human Rights Commission released information today related to mandatory vaccines and employment.
Questions include:
Can an employer require their employee to get the Covid-19 vaccine?
Can an employer ask for proof of Covid-19 vaccination?
Can an employer terminate an employee for refusing to get the Covid-19 vaccine?
When filing a Human Rights Complaint about not being accommodated, will I have to provide the Human Rights Commission proof of my characteristic protected...
The WCB Board of Directors has provided approval in principle for a new policy, Disclosure of Occupational Health and Safety Information (POL-161). The proposed policy provides guidelines for communication to promote workplace safety and protect sensitive information. The draft policy is available in the Policy Consultation section of our website, where you are invited to provide feedback by August 26, 2021.
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, the Government of Canada continues to adapt its support to deliver support to those who need it, heal the wounds of the pandemic recession, and build a strong recovery that leaves no one behind.
Today, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, and the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, announced the extension of crucial COVID-19 support...
What's changed?
Canadian Standards Association (CSA) & American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Many of the CSA and ANSI standards referenced in the OHS General Regulations and Fall Protection Regulations are now updated to reflect the most current version.
CSA continues to allow free (viewable only) access to standards referenced in the regulations. Users can register for a username through CSA Group’s online Communities of Interest (COI) platform...
If an employee began working with a retail employer before the 17th day of March, 2007, that employee may refuse to work on any or all Sundays.
If an employee began working with a retail employer on the 17th day of March, 2007, up to and including the 15th day of December, 2010, that employee may refuse to work on any or all Sundays between Christmas Day and the Friday before Victoria Day.
If an employee began working with a retail employer after the 15th day of December, 2010, that...
The Prince Edward Island OHS Guide presents key topics to assist PEI employers and workers in understanding their legal obligations within the workplace. To assist the user in understanding the key components of the legislation, this guide provides information on topics in a summarized format which includes quick reference links to applicable legislation and handy resources to help protect workers from injuries at work.
For convenience, the guide is available as a mobile app (Google Play and...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) is requesting feedback on proposed amendments to the Workers Compensation Act and General Regulations related to benefit indexation. The purpose is to better align long term benefits with rises in the cost of living.
A consultation summary has been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the WCB website at www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/LegislativeReview under the heading, Proposed Amendments to the Workers Compensation Act - Benefit...
WCB launched a widespread education and enforcement campaign surrounding working from heights, which includes a package of new safety resources, posters, media and mini-training videos to assist employers and workers in understanding their legal obligations.
The goal of the initiative is to protect workers by ensuring compliance with the OHS Act and Regulations and raising awareness of the importance of workplace safety.
In 2019, on a Prince Edward Island worksite, a worker...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-82, Support for Independent Living
POL-69, Allergies RESCIND
POL-66, Respiratory Diseases RESCIND
The policies have been placed on the WCB website for viewing and comment. They will remain on their website until April 30, 2021 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish to review these policies and provide feedback, please do so online at...
Prince Edward Island’s minimum wage will increase by 15 cents to $13 per hour today (April 1, 2021).
The Employment Standards Board reviews minimum wage annually and provides their recommendation to the Government after the review is complete. For further details on the minimum wage order visit: Economic Growth, Tourism, and Culture (Government of Prince Edward Island)
Free mental health services are available to those who work in the fisheries and aquaculture industries on PEI to help support their mental and emotional well being.
The Fisher Assistance Program, and Aquaculture Farm Assistance Program offer fishers, crewmembers, their families, and aquaculturists access to confidential and professional counselling services.
“As we navigate this difficult year, we want to ensure that the people in our industries have access to the mental health...
The Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Magnet in the (SWPP) to provide wage subsidies (UP TO 75%) for members who have hired students for work placements over the past 8 months.
If you hired a student for a work placement in the fall of 2020 or winter of 2021, your organization is eligible to receive 75% or $7500 in wage subsidies retroactively through this program.
If you plan to hire a student for summer 2021, you could be eligible for up to 70% or...
Atlantic Premiers continue to work together to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs chaired a conference call of the Council of Atlantic Premiers, with Premier Iain Rankin of Nova Scotia, Premier Dennis King of Prince Edward Island and Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador participating.
While COVID-19 remains a serious concern, Premiers are encouraged by Atlantic Canadians’ adherence to public health measures, the containment of regional...
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support have helped protect millions of Canadian jobs and supported businesses of every size across Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, announced that the government intends to extend the current rate structures for these subsidies from March 14 to June 5, 2021. Specifically:
the maximum wage subsidy rate for...
The province is launching supports to help Islanders get through the latest modified red level restricted measures related to COVID-19.
The Prince Edward Island Emergency Payment for Workers is a $500 payment for workers and self-employed Islanders who have completely lost their income or will have their hours reduced by at least 12 hours a week from February 28 to March 14, 2021.
Details and the application for this program will be available tomorrow at: For Business.
“These are very...
As of 12:01 am, Monday, 1 March 2021, Alert Level Red measures with modifications are coming into effect in PEI and will last 72 hours, until 12:01 am Thursday, 4 March, 2021. These measures are a time-limited intervention in order to get control of the situation at hand and break the chain of transmission of COVID-19.
These restrictions override all other existing sector specific public health guidance.
Essential services means services that the interruption of which would endanger the...
The following opinion editorial was featured in the February 19, 2021 edition of the Guardian Newspaper:
The Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce (GCACC), on behalf of its more than 1,000 members, has been watching with keen interest, the recent discussions regarding reducing poverty on Prince Edward Island and introducing the concept of a Basic Income Guarantee (BIG). The recent report from the Special All-Party Committee on Poverty in PEI and Mary Boyd’s opinion editorial...
The WCB Board of Directors has approved amendments to the following policies:
POL-04, Access to Worker Claim Information, previously titled Access to Information - Worker Claim Files
POL-153, Medical Cannabis
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
Work and Study Hubs will be available to Islanders in 13 communities across Prince Edward Island.
The hubs are a space where Islanders can bring their own device to access free, reliable internet to work and learn.
“We know COVID-19 has greatly impacted the way Islanders work and learn as more of us are doing it all at home. Because of this, Islanders need access to a reliable internet connection now more than ever before. Our hope with the Work and Study Hubs is that we can help fill the...
The WCB would like to remind all registered employers of the upcoming renewal deadline. If you have not already done so, please submit your 2020-2021 registration renewal by February 28, 2021, to avoid a penalty for late filing.
There are two ways to submit your registration renewal:
For your convenience, you can renew your WCB registration electronically using the Employer Registration Renewal option at WCB Online Services
-or-
You can complete the Employer...
The Department of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture is inviting organizations and the general public to provide feedback on a proposed Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act. The Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act is new legislation that will be considered by the Legislative Assembly of PEI.
About the Proposed Legislation
The Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary jobs when qualified Canadians are not...
The call for applications closes on January 29, 2021.
1. Overview
This applicant guide provides information to help you complete your Canada Summer Jobs application.
Read the following guide and the Articles of Agreement in their entirety before you start your application for funding, as they contain important details on the information and supporting documentation that Service Canada requires to assess your application.
Canada Summer Jobs program objectives
Canada Summer Jobs is...
Changes to CEWS (Bill C-9):
the subsidy is extended to June 2021
the maximum subsidy rate for periods 8 to 10 will remain at 65% (40% base rate + 25% top-up)
beginning in period 8, the top-up rate and base rate are is now calculated using the same one-month revenue drop
for periods 8 to 10, use the new top-up calculation or the previous 3-month average drop, whichever works in your favour
the deadline to apply is January 31, 2021, or 180 days after the end of the...
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Advisory Council is requesting feedback on proposed amendments to the OHS Act General Regulations and OHS Act Fall Protection Regulations. The purpose of the amendments is to harmonize regulatory requirements across jurisdictions, update references to standards and provide consistent terminology.
The consultation summary and draft regulations have been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the Workers Compensation Board (WCB)...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policies:
POL-04, Access to Information - Worker Claim Files
POL-153, Medical Cannabis
The policies have been placed on our website for viewing and comment. They will remain on our website until January 14, 2021 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". If you wish to review these policies and provide feedback, please do so...
This year has been filled with unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Canadians unexpectedly had to work from home which resulted in millions of Canadians setting up their work space in their kitchens, bedrooms and living rooms.
In response, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue, provided today additional details on how the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has made the home office expenses deduction available to more Canadians, and...
To help break the chain of COVID-19 transmission in PEI, CIRCUIT BREAKER measures are in effect from December 7 to December 21.
These CIRCUIT BREAKER measures impact businesses and gatherings and are different from the restrictions PEI residents were asked to observe during the New Normal phase.
The circuit breaker phase restrictions override all other existing sector specific public health guidance. Government of Prince Edward Island COVID-19 recommendations and guidances may be...
The Emergency Payment for Workers program provides financial support to residents of Prince Edward Island who have been financially impacted by public health orders related to COVID-19 during the two-week period December 7 – 21, 2020.
This emergency income program is a one-time lump sum payment of $500 from the Government of Prince Edward Island. This emergency benefit is taxable income. The reduction of income must have occurred as a result of the public health order effective...
The PEI Employee Gift Card Program is a temporary program put in place to offer a $100 grocery gift value to any employee, living and working on Prince Edward Island, who has received a lay-off notice as a direct result of the impacts associated with the public health measures announced on December 6th, 2020. The application form is to be completed by the employer, who will then distribute the gift card letters to affected employees.
Eligible Applicants
Employers can apply for a gift card...
The Community Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program supports the mandate of the Department of Canadian Heritage by building on Canada's strength as a diverse and inclusive society.
The Program's objectives are to:
support communities in confronting racism and discrimination, promoting intercultural and interfaith understanding and fostering equitable opportunities to participate fully in Canadian society
promote and engage in discussions on multiculturalism,...
The goal of shift is to address and prevent sexual harassment in Island workplaces through awareness, education and training that is tailored for employers, employees, high school students and the general public.
This project is funded by the Department of Justice Canada and is currently able to offer training and resources at no cost to participants.
It isn't easy to talk about sexual harassment. We can help shift the conversation to equip and empower employers and employees to...
It is important for everyone to be able to work and spend time with family. Many Islanders must leave the province to go to work. As a worker who travels, the following requirements allow you to spend time with family during the limited time you are at home while still balancing the risk of COVID-19 transmission in PEI.
Recognizing that many Islanders are back to work and that all work is important, the COVID-19 isolation and testing requirements for workers may vary depending on where you...
Prince Edward Island’s minimum wage will increase by 15 cents to $13 per hour on April 1, 2021. The Employment Standards Board reviews minimum wage annually and provides their recommendation to the Government after the review is complete.
To read the board’s report, visit: Minimum Wage Order.
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
Government is seeking proposals from organizations on how they can help Islanders impacted by COVID-19 transition into or return to the workforce.
The COVID-19 Workforce Integration Fund will support innovative projects from organizations that help Islanders gain skills and knowledge so they can find long lasting jobs, advance their careers and access entrepreneurship opportunities.
“We are doing everything we can to get more Islanders into the labour market. We know this is an...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has announced that 2021 employer assessment rates will be maintained at the 2020 rate levels.
“We are pleased that we are able to maintain rates for Island employers and provide some level of certainty in these uncertain times,” said Cheryl Paynter, Chief Executive Officer of the Workers Compensation Board.
The cost associated with maintaining 2020 rates for 2021 will be funded from the Workers Compensation Board’s Fund...
Innovation PEI is temporarily increasing funding to eight programs to support PEI businesses impacted by COVID-19.
The programs that are being adjusted focus on business investment in the areas of planning, capital investments, marketing and promotion activities, and include the following:
Capital Acquisition
Small Business Investment Grant
Information Technology Planning
Information Technology Implementation
Human Resources Planning
Human Resources Implementation
...
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Advisory Council is requesting feedback on proposed amendments to Section 39 of the OHS Act regarding confidentiality and limited disclosure of information.
The consultation summary with the proposed amendments has been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) website, www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/LegislativeReview under the heading, "OHS Act Amendments - Confidentiality and Limited Disclosure." The Council...
The Workers Compensation Board has approved in principle changes to the WCB policies below and invites you to provide feedback on these changes by October 28, 2020.
Internal Reconsideration (POL-48)
Review of Benefits (POL-85), under the new title, Extended Wage Loss Benefits
Wage Loss Benefits (POL-86), under the new title, Temporary Wage Loss Benefits
To provide input on the WCB's draft policies:
Click on the Policy link to review the proposed policy.
Review the summary of...
Effective immediately (October 5, 2020), Island workers who travel outside of the Atlantic Bubble can apply to work-isolate upon their return to Prince Edward Island if they undergo COVID-19 testing.
Non-essential travel outside of the Atlantic provinces is not recommended by Prince Edward Island’s Chief Public Health Office. Anyone travelling to the province from outside of the Atlantic Bubble must self-isolate for 14 days upon their arrival. Island residents who must travel outside of...
The Agriculture Labour Support Initiative (ALSI) connects individuals seeking employment on a farm with prospective agriculture employers. The objective of the service is to:
provide an additional employment resource to job seekers and agricultural employers in PEI
facilitate timely access to employment and labour for the agriculture industry in PEI
Note: Decisions with respect to hiring job seekers remains entirely with the employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is...
Funding is available for Island businesses and non-profit organizations to help support innovative and smart ways for employees to work efficiently from home.
The Telework Adaptation Fund offers up to $2,500 to eligible businesses and organizations to help ensure their employees have what they need to work from home at least two or three days a week. The funding can be used for things such as developing a remote work plan, buying office equipment, or subscribing to online business...
Prince Edward Island’s early childhood educators will see a wage increase and licensed child care centres will get more support for extra health and safety measures to benefit children and staff.
Starting October 1, 2020, salaries will go up for 367 early childhood educators and more than 110 autism assistants and special needs assistants in the province.
“Prince Edward Island continues to lead the country in early childhood education and the foundation...
The new Canada Recovery Caregiver Benefit, would be effective from September 27, 2020 for one year, and provide $500 per week, for up to 26 weeks per household to eligible Canadians.
The closure of schools and other daycare and day program facilities to prevent the spread of COVID 19 has meant that many Canadians have been unable to work because they needed to provide care to children or support to other dependents who had to stay home. While it is anticipated that facilities will gradually...
The new Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit would provide $500 per week, for up to two weeks, effective September 27, 2020 for one year, for workers who are unable to work because they are sick or must self-isolate due to COVID-19. This new benefit would fulfil the Government of Canada’s commitment as part of the Safe Restart Agreement with provinces and territories to provide up to two weeks of sick leave to all Canadians in the context of COVID-19.
The benefit would be available to:
...
The new Canada Recovery Benefit would be effective from September 27, 2020 for one year and would provide a benefit amount of $400 per week for up to 26 weeks to workers who are not eligible for EI, mainly the self-employed and including those working in the gig economy. These individuals may still require income support if they continue to be unable to return to work due to COVID-19 or had their income reduced relative to pre-COVID-19 pandemic (attestation-based).
The benefit would be...
EI Premium Rate Freeze
To support Canadian businesses and workers through the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is freezing the EI premium rate for employees at the 2020 level of $1.58 per $100 of insurable earnings for two years. The rate for employers, who pay 1.4 times the employee rate, will also remain unchanged at $2.21 per $100 of insurable earnings.
Under ordinary circumstances, the Canada Employment Insurance Commission sets and announces (on...
Hours Credits to Enhance Access to EI Regular Benefit and EI Special Benefits
Access to EI benefits is normally based on the number of insurable hours an individual has worked in the year prior to their application, or since their last claim. This is known as their qualifying period. However, the Government of Canada recognizes that the pandemic has prevented many Canadians from accumulating the number of insurable hours that is normally required, and is taking action to address this. To help...
COVID-19 Toolkit
All Industries
The WCB PEI recognizes the importance of worker safety as businesses look to resume operations following COVID-19-related work stoppages or interruptions. The following provides employers with information and resources to assist them in ensuring the risk of exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19 is minimized at their workplace. Note that this information and guidance represents the minimum requirements and you may identify additional risks and...
The Workers Compensation Board urges all employers and workers to follow the recommendations of the PEI Chief Public Health Office during the COVID-19 crisis.
Section 28 of the Prince Edward Island Occupational Health and Safety Act, provides workers with the right to refuse work that they reasonably believe will cause a danger to their health and safety, or that of another person, should they perform the task.
Employers must be aware of their work refusal obligations and ensure such...
The Workplace Sexual Harassment Project of the PEI Human Rights Commission is a five-year, federally funded initiative that will work to address and prevent sexual harassment in Island workplaces. This summer, we are offering a Summer Education Series; a series of on-line introductory workshops about workplace sexual harassment.
The Summer Education Series will give you an introduction to our full Workplace Training Programs, which we are piloting in the fall in PEI’s restaurant industry....
Please note this program has been extended to August 31, 2020.
The COVID-19 Workspace Adaption Assistance Fund provides a non-repayable contribution toward the cost of implementing a COVID-19 Operational Plan.
Who is eligible for funding?
Prince Edward Island businesses, not-for-profits, and non-governmental organizations that have incurred costs to implement safety measures of a COVID-19 Operational Plan, with the exception of:
Agriculture*
Aquaculture*
Fisheries*
Real...
As more businesses reopen, the federal government announces continued support for employers with the extension of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (the “CEWS”) until the end of 2020.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated in a press conference that businesses and non-profit groups under (the “CEWS”) program will receive funding of up to 75% of their employees’ wages – or a maximum of $847 per week per employee – until December 2020.
Read more: Government of Canada
The Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) provides funding for projects that make communities and workplaces more accessible for persons with disabilities. This process will provide funding for projects that improve accessibility and safety for persons with disabilities in:
a facility where persons with disabilities work or could work in the future (Workplace Accessibility Stream); or
a community space where programs or services are, or will be available for persons with disabilities...
A new Emergency Leave is now available to Island employees, retroactive to March 16, 2020. In an emergency, an employee is entitled to an unpaid emergency leave of absence for the duration of the time when the employee cannot perform the duties of the employee’s position because of the emergency.
The amendment to the Employment Standards Act received Royal Assent on June 18th.
A full reading of the Act is available here: Emergency Leave
As we head into warmer weather it's important to be practice safety during the heat. A helpful guide prepared by the Workers Compensation Board of PEI. Download the free Guide to Prevention of Heat Stress at Work
The Canada emergency response benefit (CERB) is being extended by two more months, even as the government encourages people to look for jobs and to go back to work when it's possible to do so.
CERB has provided taxable payments of $2,000 for up to four months to Canadians who lost income because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today that the financial supports will be extended for eight weeks for those who still can't work as provinces and...
COVID-19 Business Adaptation Advice Program
The COVID-19 Business Adaptation Advice program provides a non-repayable contribution to Prince Edward Island businesses, entrepreneurs, not-for-profits, and non-governmental organizations to access professional advice and support to adapt or recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
When is the application deadline?
Online applications are due on July 1, 2020
Projects must be completed by December 31, 2020
...
News release
June 12, 2020 Ottawa, Ontario - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
COVID-19 has caused significant changes and adaptation in Canada’s food system. As a result, Canadian food producers, processors, and manufacturers have taken on unexpected and exceptional activities associated with risk mitigation measures to be able to maintain Canada’s food production.
That is why the Government of Canada is taking steps to ensure the resilience of the food supply chain and to...
Employees working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic may be wondering whether additional costs they incur during this time will be deductible for income tax purposes.
When it comes to deducting home office expenses for income tax purposes, there are three approaches outlined in this article:
an employee may be able to deduct these expenses from their own taxable employment income;
an employer can provide their employees with home office allowance; and
an employer can...
Below are downloadable resources for businesses and organizations, as we begin to ease the public health measures, and Renew PEI, Together.
Elevator Social Distancing Public Notice
Exterior Building Public Notice
Important Notice for Employees Public Notice
Shared Spaces and Social Distancing Public Notice
Stairwell Social Distancing Public Notice
Washroom Social Distancing Public Notice
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, a new policy on Decision Making. The purpose of the draft new policy, POL-## Decision Making, is to explain the factors that are considered when the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) makes decisions on claims, including how the WCB gathers information, assesses evidence, and applies legislation and policy. It also streamlines the process for consideration of new evidence for decisions under appeal. The draft...
Many tasks performed by workers should not require personal protective equipment (PPE) for protection against COVID-19 unless they are in situations similar to healthcare workers. Non-PPE controls should be put into place before masks are considered.
The following measures are most effective to preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace:
Staying home when ill, with related policies around supported sick leave
Working from home
Physical distancing (2 metres/6...
This guideline applies to any scenario in which two or more persons who do not live in the same household travel together in the same vehicle for work and/or essential transport purposes, including personal vehicles, taxis and ride shares, and fleet vehicles.
Essential transport includes carpooling for work, co-workers in fleet vehicles, and transport for medical appointments and other essential needs.
Guidance on public health measures
Measures required by all businesses, services, and...
This guideline applies to workplaces that are primarily office settings, including enclosed offices, cubicle environments, open office environments, and any combination thereof. This guideline includes shared kitchen space and meeting space.
Core measures required by all businesses, services, and organizations:
Develop an operational plan detailing how risk of transmission of disease will be mitigated.
Take every reasonable step to ensure minimal interaction of people...
The Government of Prince Edward Island is providing financial assistance to help small PEI businesses purchase and install protective measures such as plexiglass dividers or handwashing stations to safeguard employees and customers. Businesses can receive up to $2,000 and the program will be retroactive to March 16th to support businesses that have already put measures in place to operate safely.
Further details: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/business-0
This document outlines recommendations for all sponsoring employers to meet the orders, notices, and guidance issued by Prince Edward Island’s Chief Public Health Officer for processors employing Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) and domestic workers. The requirements apply to workers in PEI under the TFW programs. Detailed information, checklists and tools to help complete the requirements are found in the linked documents.
A Guidance Document for Seafood Processors Employing Temporary...
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) program (part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program) continues to operate in the face of COVID-19. The Global Talent Stream offers timely, responsive, and predictable client-focused service to help you access highly-skilled global talent to expand your workforce here in Canada and to be competitive on a global scale.
More details: Employment and Social Development Canada
When you apply for the Canada Employment Wage Subsidy (CEWS), you will be asked to enter amounts such as the number of eligible employees and gross payroll. You can determine these amounts and preview your subsidy claim, based on the information you enter. The calculator is a tool to help you estimate the amount of your wage subsidy.
For further details and to access the online calculator visit: Government of Canada
Effective May 1, 2020 all businesses and services on PEI are required to have COVID-19 specific policies and procedures in place to operate under the updated Public Health Order. Each phase of Renew PEI Together, beginning May 1st, includes a further relaxation of restrictions for business allowed to operate, but still includes the same general principles outlined in this template.
See covid_operational_plan_template
Business questions can be answered by contacting provincial public...
As a Canadian employer whose business has been affected by COVID-19, you may be eligible for a subsidy of 75% of employee wages for up to 12 weeks, retroactive from March 15, 2020, to June 6, 2020.
This wage subsidy will enable you to re-hire workers previously laid off as a result of COVID-19, help prevent further job losses, and better position you to resume normal operations following the crisis.
Sections
Who is an eligible employer: Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
Determine...
The government established the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) to support workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This taxable benefit provides $2,000 every four weeks for up to four months to workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CERB covers Canadians who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, as well as working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children who are sick or...
Context
Further to recent announcements by the Government of Canada to facilitate the entry of foreign workers while taking steps to minimize the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), this document outlines the expectations for employers of temporary foreign workers
Like all Canadians, most temporary foreign workers entering Canada are required to follow certain obligations, including self-isolation (visit the Resources section of www.canada.ca/coronavirus to learn more). Employers...
Today, the Province of Prince Edward Island announced enhanced employment and economic opportunities for Island students impacted by COVID-19.
In total, the Province will support the creation of 1,000 new job placements for Island high school and post-secondary students through increases to current employment programs and partnerships with community and industry as long as the jobs can follow the health and safety recommendations of the Chief Public Health Office.
“We know that Island...
The Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy is a three-month measure that will allow eligible employers to reduce the amount of payroll deduction required to be remitted to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
You are an eligible employer if you:
are a(n):
individual (excluding trusts),
partnership.
non-profit organization,
registered charity, or
Canadian-controlled private corporation (including a cooperative corporation) eligible for the small business deduction;
have an existing...
Today, the Province of Prince Edward Island announced initial assistance for the Island’s agriculture and trucking industries as they deal with the impacts of COVID-19.
“The health and well-being of our communities depends on ready access to high-quality, healthy, safe food and we need to ensure that agriculture remains the pillar of our economy. Farming has helped build our province and we will stand with our farmers and farm workers to help tackle the challenges of today and plan for our...
The Jobs for Youth Program, delivered by the Employment Development Agency, offers wage support for employers to create employment opportunities for PEI students.
The Employment Development Agency is committed to modernizing the delivery of the funding programs offered by the Agency and excited to announce some changes to the Jobs for Youth Program for the upcoming program year.
What is changing in 2020?
The 2020 Jobs for Youth Program changes include:
Lowering the minimum age of...
What is the Canada Emergency Response Benefit
If you have stopped working because of COVID-19, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) may provide you with temporary income support. The CERB provides $500 a week for up to 16 weeks.
Who is eligible
The benefit will be available to workers:
Residing in Canada, who are at least 15 years old;
Who have stopped working because of COVID-19 and have not voluntarily quit their job or are eligible for EI regular or sickness...
The Emergency Relief - Worker Assistance Program is a temporary program to provide financial support to employers to assist their employed workers who have been impacted by reduced hours at work as a result of COVID-19.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
Eligible employers include:
Registered private sector businesses or non-profit organizations in Prince Edward Island where employed workers have experienced a reduction of at least 8 hours per week during the two week period March 16-29,...
COVID-19 Business Adaptation Advice Program
The COVID-19 Business Adaptation PROGRAM provides a non-repayable contribution toward the cost for a Prince Edward Island businesses, entrepreneurs, not-for-profit, and non-governmental organizations to hire a professional to provide advice and support to adapt to or recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
Who is eligible for Professional Services funding?
PEI Businesses who...
Today, the Province of Prince Edward Island announced additional investments to ensure no Islander is left behind as a result of COVID-19.
“Islanders have come together, finding new ways of helping each other, staying connected and building community spirit during this difficult and uncertain time. We will get through this pandemic the Island way – by taking the necessary precautions, by working together and by looking out for one another.”
- Premier Dennis King
Minister of...
The Prince Edward Island COVID-19 Income Support Fund provides financial support to residents of Prince Edward Island to bridge the gap between the loss of their job/lay-off, loss of their primary source of income, Employment Insurance benefits have expired or loss of all revenues through self-employment as a result of COVID-19. This emergency income fund is a one-time lump sum payment of $750 from the Government of Prince Edward Island. This emergency income is taxable.
Who is Eligible...
The Government of Canada is taking immediate, significant and decisive action to support Canadians and businesses facing hardship as a result of the global COVID-19 outbreak.
To help Canadians and businesses get through these tough economic times, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced that the Government is proposing to introduce a wage subsidy of 75 per cent for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020.
This measure, which is a part of the...
Prince Edward Island's minimum wage increases by 60 cents today from $12.25 per hour to $12.85 per hour (April 1, 2020).
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
The Government of Canada announced an up to 75 percent wage subsidy for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020. This will help businesses to keep and return workers to the payroll.
More details on eligibility criteria will start with the impact of COVID-19 on sales, and will be shared before the end of the month.
Check the Government of Canada website for regular updates on available supports to individuals and businesses affected by COVID-19.
COVID-19: Risk Mitigation for Essential Service Workers that Cross Borders
Travel advisories and restrictions continue to be put in place in affected areas around the world. Canadian’s who must cross borders for work as part of an essential service that moves essential goods or people, can reduce risk to themselves, their families and communities when they are home.
Risk
Essential services such as transport of goods and airlines require continued...
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
Updated: March 24, 2020
As the global pandemic of Covid-19 evolves, WCB PEI has taken many steps to support Island workers and employers.
While our building is closed to the public, WCB has maintained services and supports for employers and workers by phone and email. Also, any new employer payroll audits have been deferred, and benefit payments for eligible workers are continuing to be processed as...
Employee Gift Card Program
The Government of Prince Edward Island has partnered with Sobeys on the PEI Employee Gift Card Program. This is a temporary program put in place to offer a $100 Sobeys gift value to any employee, living and working on Prince Edward Island, who has received a lay-off notice as a direct result of the impacts associated with COVID-19. The application form is to be completed by the employer, who will then distribute the gift card...
The Canadian Payroll Association has developed a comprehensive Q&A document related to the impacts of COVID-19 on payroll compliance. Topics include completing the ROE, Layoffs and EI Benefits. Access document here: Payroll-and-Covid19-Infoline
Last Updated: March 18, 2020
Check Canadian Payroll Association for regular updates
The Emergency Relief - Worker Assistance Program is a temporary program to provide financial support to employers to assist their workers who have been impacted by reduced hours at work as a result of COVID-19.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
Eligible employers include:
Registered private sector businesses in Prince Edward Island with workers who have experienced a reduction of at least 8 hours per week during the two week period March 16-29, 2020.
How does the Program Work?
Once you...
As part of the provincial response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Government has announced a new Emergency Contingency Fund as an initial step to help support Island businesses.
Find Business Help
The situation with COVID-19 is rapidly evolving. Find accurate, up-to-date information, including when to seek help :
Call the toll-free support line 1-866-222-1751 between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday or email PEIbusinesshelpline@gov.pe.ca(link sends e-mail).
Staff are...
The PEI Human Rights Commission reminds people to keep human rights responsibilities in mind during this time of uncertainty. The Commission endorses the advice provided by the Ontario Human Rights Commission. (Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act legislation applies rather than Ontario as is referenced below).
The OHRC’s policy position is that negative treatment of employees who have, or are perceived to have, COVID-19, for reasons unrelated to public health and safety, is discriminatory...
To support businesses that are facing revenue losses and to help prevent lay-offs, the government is proposing to provide eligible small employers a temporary wage subsidy for a period of three months. The subsidy will be equal to 10% of the remuneration paid during that period, up to a maximum subsidy of $1,375 per employee and $25,000 per employer. Businesses will be able to benefit immediately from this support by reducing their remittances of income tax withheld on their employees’...
The following provides information for Island workers and employers about COVID-19 as it relates to Workers Compensation Board (WCB) claims. Please check here frequently for up to date information.
Are workers eligible for WCB benefits if they have COVID-19?
Most cases of COVID-19 are not work-related. If a worker’s COVID-19 is not work-related, there is no need to report it to the WCB.
If a worker contracts COVID-19 that may be a result of work, they should report it to the...
The following provides workplace health and safety information for Island workers and employers.
As information about COVID-19 develops, the WCB will continue to refer to the PEI Chief Public Health Office and the Public Health Agency of Canada for guidance. Please check here frequently for up to date information.
How does COVID-19 spread?
Human coronaviruses cause infections of the nose, throat, and lungs. They are most commonly spread from an infected person through:
...
Should COVID-19 continue to escalate in Canada, employers should keep in mind that they have the same legal duties and obligations under employment standards, human rights legislation, and occupational health and safety, as they would with any other health-related illness impacting employees. Be properly informed and be prepared to address how this may impact your employees and your business. Free resources available:
...
2020 Jobs for Youth Program
The Jobs for Youth Program, delivered by the Employment Development Agency, offers wage support for employers to create employment opportunities for PEI students.
The Employment Development Agency is committed to modernizing the delivery of the funding programs offered by the Agency and excited to announce some changes to the Jobs for Youth Program for the upcoming program year.
What is changing in 2020?
The 2020 Jobs for...
Objectives of the Canada Summer Jobs Program
Canada Summer Jobs is an initiative of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, which aims to provide flexible and holistic services to support all young Canadians develop the skills and gain paid work experience to successfully transition in the labour market.
The Canada Summer Jobs program objectives align with the redesigned Youth Employment and Skills Strategy and are as follows:
provide quality work experiences for youth
respond to...
New workplace harassment regulations will come into effect on July 1, 2020, and the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Prince Edward Island has developed educational materials and sessions to support employers and workers.
To help prepare for the changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations on workplace harassment, WCB has created a guide that will help employers, supervisors, and workers understand their responsibilities to ensure they are in compliance.
The guide...
Each year, by February 28, you must renew your registration with the PEI Workers Compensation Board. You do so by reporting your actual payroll for the previous year and an estimated payroll for the current year. Late filing may result in arbitrary assessment and penalties. For more information: Employer Registration Renewal
More information about registration and renewal is available in the WCB Information for Employers booklet and in the WCB employer services policies.
Ready, Willing and Able (RWA) is a national initiative of the Canadian Association for Community Living
(CACL), the Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorders Alliance (CASDA) and their member organizations. Funded by the Government of Canada and active in each province and territory across the country, RWA supports Canadian businesses to build an inclusive workplace that capitalizes on the skills and qualifications of people with an intellectual disability or ASD.
There is rapidly increasing...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, the following policy:
POL-64, Health Care Providers
This policy has been placed on the WCB website for viewing and comment. It will remain on their website until January 20, 2020 under the heading of "Policy Consultation-Draft Policies". Persons wishing to access these policies and provide comment online may do so at http://www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/PolicyConsultation.
Should you have any questions or...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Prince Edward Island has introduced changes to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and Regulations on workplace harassment.
The amendments to the OHS Act and Regulations outline the responsibilities of employers and workers to prevent harassment in the workplace.
In keeping with legislation in other Canadian jurisdictions, the new regulations:
Provide a definition of harassment to clarify what is unacceptable behaviour in the...
Effective 1 April 2020, the maximum amounts that may be deducted from the wages of an employee where the employer furnishes board and lodging are as follows:
Board and Lodging: $61.60 per week
Board Only: $45.50 per week
Lodging Only: $27.50 per week
Single Meals: $4.13 per meal
Source: Government of Prince Edward Island
The Workers Compensation Board has approved in principle amendments to the policy, Medical Cannabis (POL-153).
The public is invited to provide feedback on the draft policy by December 1, 2019, in the Policy Consultation section of the Workers Compensation Board website.
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
The Minimum Wage Order sets wage rates. A wage rate is the amount of money an employer pays an employee for each hour of work. The Minimum Wage Order sets the minimum wage rate, which is the least amount of money an employer must pay an employee for each hour of work. The order also sets employment standards for the cost of board, lodging and meals.
Effective April 1, 2020, the minimum wage for Prince Edward Island will be adjusted from $12.25 to $12.85.
Source: Government of Prince...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island (PEI), in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), has launched a new app to help Islanders better access workplace health and safety information.
The new app provides mobile access to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and provides relevant, up-to-date information on 20 common health and safety topics, with further topics to be developed over the coming years. In addition to the new...
Effective November 1, 2019, this leave provides up to three days of paid leave and an additional seven days of unpaid leave, in a twelve-month period, for employees to address the consequences of domestic violence, intimate partner violence or sexual violence. An employee can use this leave intermittently (on an as-needed basis) or all at once.
Who can take the leave?
An employee needs three months of continuous employment with an employer to be eligible for...
Prince Edward Island organizations are invited to apply for the 2019 fall intake of Workers Compensation Board (WCB) grants.
The WCB Grant Program, introduced last year, supports projects that prevent workplace injuries and illnesses or improve return-to-work outcomes for Island workers.
“The program helps us tap into the creativity of others in helping increase awareness of health and safety at work and promote a culture of injury prevention and successful return to work,” said...
With growing demands on the construction industry on Prince Edward Island, safety officials want to ensure that workers and employers are taking the proper precautions to work safely.
Over the coming weeks, there will be a focused education and compliance initiative, where Occupational Health and Safety Officers will be visiting construction sites across the province. The Officers will be checking to see that workers are wearing their personal protective equipment and following...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Prince Edward Island has approved, in principle, a new policy on Massage Therapy. The purpose of the policy is to explain how the Workers Compensation Board determines an injured worker’s entitlement to massage therapy services and to outline treatment approval.
The policy has been placed on the Workers Compensation Board of PEI website for viewing and comment. They will remain on the Policy Consultation/Draft Policies section of the WCB...
The Workers Compensation Board, in partnership with the Occupational Health & Safety Advisory Council is requesting feedback on proposed amendments to the Workers Compensation Act.
The consultation summary has been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the Workers Compensation Board website, www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/LegislativeReview under the heading, "Proposed Amendments to the Workers Compensation Act."
Feedback on the draft amendments should be made by October 26, 2019,...
The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island, in partnership with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Advisory Council, is requesting feedback on proposed changes to the OHS Act General Regulations for Asbestos.
The proposed changes to the legislation have been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the WCB website, www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/LegislativeReview under the heading, "OHS Act Regulations for Asbestos." The WCB encourages stakeholders to provide feedback on the...
What is the Farmer Assistance Program
The Farmer Assistance Program (FAP) is a service that provides confidential, professional counseling services to farmers and their families. The program recognizes that some problems can affect home life and work performance. When this happens, help may be required in resolving these problems through the assistance of a trained professional counsellor. The counsellors are trained to provide short term counselling or refer individuals to other...
Effective November 1, 2019
Amendments to the Employment Standards Act will take effect to provide an employee up to three days (3) with pay - and up to an additional seven days (7) without pay for an employee to deal with the consequences of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, or sexual violence.
Application: An employee who has been employed for a continuous period of three months, or more, may access this type of leave. The employee may choose to take this leave...
What is the Fisher Assistance Program? The Fisher Assistance Program (FAP) is a service that provides confidential, professional counseling services to fishers and their families. The program recognizes that some problems can affect home life and work performance. When this happens, help may be required in resolving these problems through the assistance of a trained professional counselor. These counselors are trained to provide short-term counseling or refer you to other professional...
What is the WCB Grant Program?
The Workers Compensation Board Grant Program (WGP) supports innovative workplace solutions and training and educational opportunities for Island employers and workers. The WGP is funded and administered by the Workers Compensation Board of PEI.
Program objectives are:
To further enhance WCB’s mission and strategic goals of injury prevention and improving return to work outcomes for all injured workers
To provide support to organizations...
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot will test a new, industry-specific approach to help address the labour needs of the Canadian agri-food sector, particularly in meat processing and mushroom production.
While immigration in the agricultural sector is largely based on seasonal workers, this pilot aims to enhance the benefits of economic immigration to the agri-food sector by testing a new pathway to permanent residence.
The pilot will seek to attract experienced, non-seasonal workers who can...
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI invites all stakeholders and the general public to a presentation of the WCB 2018 Annual Report at the WCB Annual Public Meeting.
Date: Wednesday, July 17th, 2019
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Delta Prince Edward Hotel
Please RSVP to Jody Jackson at jsjackson@wcb.pe.ca
902-368-5688 or 1-800-237-5049
Digital Skills 4 Youth PEI (DS4Y PEl) is a new internship opportunity for Island youth delivered by the Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning (WAL) with funding support from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). The DS4Y PEl program will focus on connecting recent graduates to meaningful employment and giving them the skills to succeed in the digital economy.
WAL will partner with Island businesses or non-profit organizations who will act as 'Intern Host...
Application Deadline: June 21, 2019, 11:59 am (Pacific daylight time)
The growth in the population of seniors in Canada is accelerating. The total number of seniors is projected to reach approximately 10 million by 2036. Some of the goals of the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) are:
empowering seniors
encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, and
enhancing seniors' social well-being and community vitality
The...
Application Deadline: May 29, 2019, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Pacific Time
The Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) supports the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthen union-based apprenticeship training, innovation and enhanced partnerships. The Investments in Training Equipment Stream supports cost-shared purchases of equipment and materials for training (union-led).
This application process is intended to fund projects that will strengthen training in the trades to better...
The following Workers Compensation Board has developed a new policy and revised two other policies.
New Policy
A new policy, Annuity (POL-154), has been developed to reflect the amendments to the Workers Compensation Act related to the provision of retirement benefits. Pension Replacement Benefits (POL-124) has been revised as a result.
Revised Policies
Repetitive Strain Injuries (POL-91). The amendments set out the criteria for acceptance of repetitive strain injuries...
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Advisory Council is requesting feedback on additional proposed amendments to the OHS Act General Regulations to include workplace harassment.
The consultation summary and draft regulations have been posted on the Legislative Feedback page of the Workers Compensation Board website, www.wcb.pe.ca/Information/LegislativeReview under the heading, "OHS Regulations - Workplace Harassment."
The Council encourages stakeholders to provide feedback on...
Family-friendly amendments to the Employment Standards Act passed during the 2018 fall legislative session will come into effect on Saturday, December 29, 2018.
Changes to the act include:
• Extended parental leave from 12 months to 18 months to align with the federal employment insurance changes;
• Extended compassionate care leave from 8 weeks to 28 weeks;
• Reduced qualifying period for an employee to receive sick leave from 6 months to 3 months.
Government...
Canada Summer Jobs is an initiative of the Youth Employment Strategy, which is the Government of Canada’s commitment to help young people between the ages of 15 and 30, particularly those facing barriers to employment, get the information and gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to transition successfully into the labour market.
The program provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public-sector, and private sector organizations with 50...
Employers of Reservists and self-employed Reservists may be eligible for funding under the Compensation for Employers of Reservists Program (CERP). The purpose of the CERP is to:
Provide financial support to civilian employers of Reservists and/or self-employed Reservists, to offset operational costs they incur when Reservist employees deploy on full-time operational duty (Chief of Defence Staff directed operation), both domestically and abroad.
Enable Reservists to be more fully...
CPP enhancements (approved through Bill C-26) set out to increase the amount working Canadians will receive from the CPP in their retirement years, from one-quarter to one-third of their eligible earnings. The federal working income tax benefit (WITB) will also be increased to offset the increase in CPP contributions of eligible low-income workers. Employee contributions to the enhanced portion of the CPP will be deductible. The changes will have effects on:
CPP retirement pension and...
In 2018 Bill 116, An Act To Amend The Employment Standards Act (No. 3) received Royal Assent by the Government of Prince Edward Island. The Domestic Violence Leave, Intimate Partner Violence Leave or Sexual Violence Leave provides for up to three days of paid leave, and another seven days of unpaid leave for employees needing time to deal with the consequences of domestic, intimate partner or sexual violence. Read more: https://tinyurl.com/y9xkp4s5
As an employer here are a few...
The 2019 Employment Insurance (EI) premium rate will be $1.62 per $100 of insurable earnings—a decrease of 4 cents for employees compared to the 2018 rate and an effective decrease of 5 cents for employers, who pay 1.4 times the employee rate: https://tinyurl.com/ybb7r43s
On 1 April 2019, a new Minimum Wage Order will come into effect for Prince Edward Island with the minimum wage being set at $12.25 per hour. https://tinyurl.com/yaq49yub
Drugs can have serious adverse effects on the safety and well-being of employees, contractors and the public.
Awareness of the potential risks associated with the use recreational cannabis is a vital first step in providing a safe workplace.
Did you know: Bill C-45, an act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other acts (the Cannabis Act) was introduced in the House of Commons on April 13, 2017. Effective October 17,...
Most employees are eligible for a variety of leaves under the Employment Standards Act of Prince Edward Island including protection of employment for persons needing time off from work to address issues due to family violence.
During the 2018 spring sitting of the provincial legislature, the Employment Standards Act (Bill 116) was amended to provide for up to three days of paid leave, and another seven days of unpaid leave for employees who need time to deal with the consequences...
Prince Edward Island’s minimum wage will remain the highest in Atlantic Canada when it increases by 30 cents to $11.55 per hour on April 1, 2018.“Given Prince Edward Island’s economic growth, it is very important that all Islanders benefit from improved economic conditions,” said Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Sonny Gallant. “Being a small province helps us work well together and be nimble enough to focus on what matters most. As the GDP expands, increasing the minimum wage...
The Government of Prince Edward Island has an obligation and an opportunity to actively shape the implementation of the federal decision to legalize cannabis in a way that balances the challenges presented by legalization as well as Islanders’ interests, circumstances and values. To do this, provincial government is assessing the implications of legalization, exploring regional opportunities, gathering research, and listening to Islanders' views. Read More
Source: Government of Prince...
Beginning December 3, the following improvements will be made to Employment Insurance (EI) caregiving benefits in order to better support workers who take time off work due to specific life events:
Caregivers who provide care to a critically ill or injured adult family member will have access to a new benefit of up to 15 weeks. This will help more Canadians support loved ones when they need it most.
Immediate and extended family members of children who are critically ill will, for the...
The Government of Canada introduced legislation that will make cannabis, or marijuana, legal in Prince Edward Island and the rest of Canada by July 2018. Before that time, Prince Edward Island must decide how to adapt to this legislation.
Programs, policies, laws and public education will be required to determine where and when cannabis can be sold, tax implications, the legal age to purchase and how communities will be protected from potential negative consequences like drug-impaired...
The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program is an employer-driven federal immigration pilot program designed to help you fill permanent labour shortages and skill gaps in your business by supporting foreign nationals for permanent residency. There are three different streams which aim to address different needs. The Atlantic High Skilled Program allows you to attract highly skilled individuals, the Atlantic Intermediate Skilled Program allows you to attract semi-skilled individuals, and the...
Minimum wage on Prince Edward Island will increase by 25 cents on April 1, to $11.25 per hour. The province’s
minimum wage has increased 38 per cent since 2008. By comparison, inflation has risen 11 per cent during that time.
“Our government is pleased to approve this increase in minimum wage, which is intended to improve the quality of life for many Islanders and provide a boost to the economy,” Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Sonny Gallant said. “Increasing minimum...
Canada Summer Jobs provides funding to help employers create summer job opportunities for students. It is designed to focus on local priorities, while helping both students and their communities.
Canada Summer Jobs:
provides work experiences for students
supports organizations, including those that provide important community services; and
recognizes that local circumstances, community needs and priorities vary widely
Canada Summer Jobs provides funding to not-for-profit...
Source: www.wcb.pe.ca
Mandatory coverage for farmers under the Workers Compensation Act will come into effect January 1, 2017. Until then, farm employers are still able to register for optional coverage under the Workers Compensation Act. As requested by farm employers, there will be a comprehensive information and education process which will be delivered during the transition period, in advance of the implementation date.
Farm workers are at high risk of experiencing workplace...
New record-keeping rules for employers will come into effect on January 1, 2017. The new payroll rules will require employers to make and keep employment records for:
a) paid holiday pay due or paid to an employee;
b) period of a leave of absence of an employee as well as the reason for the absence; and
c) dates of any suspensions, dismissals or layoffs of an employee and the dates of such notices.
The new requirements complement existing record-keeping obligations already required...
Effective October 1, 2016, a new Minimum Wage Order will come into effect with the minimum wage being set at $11.00 per hour. The Employment Standards Board reviews the minimum wage annually under the terms of the Employment Standards Act. It makes recommendations on the minimum wage rate based on economic factors in the province and on input received from the public and stakeholders. Approximately 9.3 per cent of Island workers are paid at the minimum wage rate.
For a complete history of...
Government of Canada Finance Minister Bill Morneau met his provincial and territorial counterparts in Vancouver on June 20th and reached an agreement with most of them to expand the Canada Pension Plan. Here is what you need to know about CPP and proposed deal: http://tinyurl.com/j567ah3
Effective June 1, 2016, a new Minimum Wage Order has come into effect with the minimum wage being set at $10.70 per hour.
Under the Canadian Constitution, the responsibility for enacting and enforcing labour laws, including the minimum wage, rests with the ten provinces as well as the three territories which have been granted this power by federal legislation. This means that each province and territory has its own minimum wage. For a complete history of the minimum wage order on...
Raising the minimum wage will do little to reduce poverty mainly because most minimum-wage earners don’t live in low-income households, suggests a new study by the Fraser Institute.
“Despite good intentions, the evidence shows increasing the minimum wage is not an effective policy for helping Canadians struggling with poverty,” said Charles Lammam, director of fiscal studies at the Fraser Institute and report co-author.
To read the full article click here.
You are Invited!
Please see the below information on the upcoming Skills PEI Job/Career Fairs. We hope you can join us to set up a booth at one or all of our locations!
There is no cost to attend, and there will be 40-50 employers and organizations from all different sectors at the Charlottetown location.
Mark your calendars for Monday, Feb 29th from 2-6 pm at the Eastlink Centre (Civic Centre). Companies are encouraged to interview potential candidates on the spot at the...
The deadline for employers to file their registration renewal with the Workers Compensation Board is February 28, 2016. Employers should submit their 2015-2016 registration renewal by the deadline in order to avoid being assessed a penalty for late filing.
Registration can be renewed electronically using the Workers Compensation Online Services:
http://www.wcb.pe.ca/Employers/EServices
Canada Summer Jobs is a Government of Canada initiative. It provides funding for not-for-profit organizations, public sector employers and small businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees to create summer jobs for students between the ages of 15 and 30.
Please note that the application period will be from January 4 to February 26, 2016.
Please visit the Service Canada website for further details.
It is that time of year again when thoughts are turning to seasonal and holiday celebrations. Whether these celebrations are large or small, it is important that employers take proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of their employees who attend office parties or other celebrations. In this FTR Now, we provide employers with a checklist of measures to consider implementing to help plan a safe holiday celebration for all.
Click here for the checklist
Many organizations talk about diversity but how many actually make it a priority? With the face of Canada’s population rapidly changing, this is one question that every Human Resources department will need to consider.
Click here to read more
Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS), a global biopharmaceutical company, has been operating in Canada for more than 80 years. For the past three, it has been accredited by Aon Hewitt as a ‘Best Employer’.
To read more click here
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Prince Edward Island is taking steps to provide more support to injured workers by eliminating a 2 day waiting period before benefits begin.
"Eliminating the wait period will provide wage loss benefits to all workers from the day following an accident," said Stuart Affleck, Chair of the Workers Compensation Board. "This measure will have a direct impact on our most vulnerable injured workers who might not have access to sick leave benefits during this...
A federal election has been called for October 19, 2015. Under the Canada Elections Act ("Act") all employees
who are electors – Canadian citizens who are 18 years of age or older – are entitled to three (3) consecutive hours on election day during voting hours to cast their vote. In this FTR Now, we provide employers with guidance on their obligations under the Act.
Under the Act, voting hours are determined by the time zone in which the electoral district lies. Click here to...
Mental Health and Wellness in the Workplace Join us for an interactive panel discussion on the challenges faced by employers related to workplace health and
wellness issues such as stress, absenteeism and addictions. Discover resources available to employers and employees that can help to address these issues and build a healthier team.
For more information and to register for this session, click here.
The rise of so-called precarious employment in Canada — mainly work in the services and retail sectors — has brought with it some questionable employer practices that have employees stressed out and labour activists fuming.
They’re calling for the elimination of “on-call” shifts, a practice where management schedules shifts for part-time employees each week, but then requires them to call in ahead of their start time to find out if they’re actually working.
Read the full...
The Canada PEI Job Grant is a new program offered by Workforce and Advanced Learning. The grant is an employer driven approach that helps new and current employees improve skills and participate in training. Employers will receive two-thirds of the training investment on eligible training expenses such as tuition, textbooks and fees. This year $525,000 is available for approved Canada-PEI Job Grants. For more information visit www.skillspei.com/about-job-grant or...
Effective July 1, 2015, a new Minimum Wage Order has come into effect with the minimum wage being set at $10.50 per hour. Under the Canadian Constitution, the responsibility for enacting and enforcing labour laws, including the minimum wage, rests with the ten provinces as well as the three territories which have been granted this power by federal legislation. This means that each province and territory has its own minimum wage. For a complete history of the minimum wage order on...
After a very long winter, the snow is almost gone: time for our annual look at Atlantic Canadian general minimum wage rates. The minimum wage rate in every Atlantic Canadian province is higher than it was a year ago – and there are more increases to come in 2015
Full Legal Update
The Jobs for Youth Program will soon be accepting applications from Island employers for wage support to create additional employment opportunities for Island students aged 16 to 29. This program is funded by the Government of Prince Edward Island and is administered by the Employment Development Agency. Students hired to fill positions on approved projects must be registered with the Employment Development Agency Jobs Registry. Visit Jobs for Youth Program for further details. Employer...
Canada Pension Plan benefits are rising 1.8 per cent in the new year for people already receiving benefits.
Effective Jan. 1, 2015, the maximum CPP retirement benefit for new recipients age 65 will be $1,065 per month. The increase is calculated on the average yearly maximum pensionable earnings for the last five years. The new CPP rates will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2015.
Old Age Security (OAS) benefits, which consist of the basic OAS pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)...
Canada Summer Jobs provides funding to help employers create summer job opportunities for students. It is designed to focus on local priorities, while helping both students and their communities. Canada Summer Jobs:
provides work experiences for students;
supports organizations, including those that provide important community services; and
recognizes that local circumstances, community needs and priorities vary widely.
Canada Summer Jobs provides funding to not-for-profit...
Effective 1 October 2014, a new Minimum Wage Order has come into effect with the minimum wage being set at $10.35 per hour. Under the Canadian Constitution, the responsibility for enacting and enforcing labour laws, including the minimum wage, rests with the ten provinces as well as the three territories which have been granted this power by federal legislation. This means that each province and territory has its own minimum wage. For a complete history of the minimum wage order on...
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament for Egmont, on behalf of the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development, today announced the signing of the full agreement for the Canada Job Fund, which includes the launch of the Canada Job Grant, with the Government of Prince Edward Island.
The Honourable Allen F. Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, who participated in the announcement with Minister Shea,...
Working Together is a new wage subsidy program that connects job seekers with disabilities with employers by
providing a wage subsidy for a minimum of six months. Neil Squire Society is offering this program in partnership with the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Neil Squire Society is a national not-for-profit organization that uses technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with disabilities. The society has developed innovative programs and services, as...
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
With the first heat wave of the summer in the forecast, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) reminds all Islanders to take precautions to avoid heat stress at work.
Heat stress refers to a variety of heat-related disorders, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can lead to serious or even fatal injury. Symptoms may include weakness, muscle pain, light-headedness, nausea and high body temperatures.
Environmental hazards such as...
The number of temporary foreign workers in Atlantic Canada tripled between 2005 and 2012 to reach 10,900 workers in December 2012 according to research by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council. Prince Edward Island is leading the way in the number of temporary foreign workers:
139in 2005
644in 2009
1,000+in 2012
The largest increases in the number of temporary foreign workers have been in lower paying, lower skill occupations such as fish plant and food service workers. Recent...
The minimum wage in Prince Edward Island will be increased to $10.20 cents an hour as of June 1 and to $10.35 an hour as of October 1, says Environment, Labour and Justice Minister Janice Sherry.
“The new rates take into account both the interests of employers and employees,” said Minister Sherry. “As well, the increase reflects a stronger and more buoyant economy and greater confidence in our prospects as a province.”
The new rates were approved by the provincial cabinet based on...
The P.E.I. Human Rights Act now expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity and gender expression.
The act previously prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex or sexual orientation. The amendments, made in December 2013, underline that the Act also covers the right of people to choose how they express gender identity.
As a result of the changes, businesses may need to review policies related to such items as dress codes or gender-neutral washrooms.
New...
March 9-15, 2014 is Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, an annual event that raises awareness about the importance of farming safely. With this year’s theme, Let’s Talk About It, the Workers Compensation Board encourages farm employers and workers to initiate a conversation about safety hazards and ways to work safely.
“Dialogue creates valuable opportunities to learn from one another,” said Nancy Guptill, Workers Compensation Board Chair. “With a topic as important as workplace...
