A controversial new policy by the federal government will allow employers to pay 15 per cent less to migrant workers than to Canadians. The Workers’ Action Centre participated in country-wide actions yesterday to oppose this change, which like the proposed EI changes, will drive down wages for all workers—while allowing some to be paid less… contine reading
Archives for May 2012
Proposed EI changes will push workers into low-wage jobs
Part of the Conservative government’s new omnibus bill would require workers on Employment Insurance to accept work that pays up to 70 per cent less, to move in search of work, and to take available jobs outside their own occupation. In a Toronto Star article released today, Zelda, a Workers’ Action Centre member speaks out… contine reading
Nannies waiting longer for open-work permits in Canada
In a May 21, 2012 Toronto Star article, Kay Manuel of the Caregivers Action Centre reported on the growing number of calls from nannies complaining wait times for the open permit have been creeping up — after a drop at the start of 2012 when Ottawa issued 10,000 permits to desperate caregivers. The article tells of… contine reading
Ministry of Labour claim: Getting what’s owed to you. New WAC factsheet.
Every year, thousands of workers are forced to file claims with the Ministry of Labour for unpaid wages or other employment violations — no overtime, unpaid vacation, paid below minimum wage. WAC’s latest factsheet in our Know Your Rights series helps workers understand the process – when to file, what happens next, and how to… contine reading
WAC Organizer Nadira Gopalani honoured at CASSA gala
At the CASSA (Council of Agencies Serving South Asians) Gala event on May 12, 2012, Nadira received an Excellence in Equity Award for her outstanding contributions to social and economic justice for the South Asian community. Chris Ramsaroop was also recognized for his work as a grassroots organizer and activist with Justicia for Migrant Workers.… contine reading
Victory!! Funding cuts to Employment Standards reversed
Thanks to 3 intense months of pressure from our members and allies—$5.5 million dollars for proactive enforcement of Employment Standards have been saved from the government chopping block. The McGuinty government promises to work with WAC and other community partners to develop a plan for how the money can best to used to prevent wage… contine reading