ORHMA urges call to action on proposed Ontario labour law changes

TORONTO — The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) has issued a call to action urging its members to voice their concerns about potential negative effects of Ontario’s proposed labour law changes, it was announced Oct. 3.

“The Ontario government is conducting a review of labour relations and employment standards legislation with a view to changes that will have a significant detrimental impact on your business,” said an emailed ORHMA bulletin.

“It is not about if the government will change labour laws – it is a matter of what will they change. This is a critically important issue not only for our industry, but for the entire business and employer community. You’re being asked to get involved at the grassroots level to help influence the government’s decisions on the proposed policy options.”

The bulletin continued, “as a local business owner and employer, you are in the best position to inform your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) about the negative impact the proposed changes will have on your business and your employees. Your involvement in our grassroots advocacy efforts will be a significant factor in achieving the outcomes we are seeking. This Call-to-Action contains simple, step-by-step guidance on how to lobby your MPP and engage other local business owners. Your immediate action on this issue is extremely important.

“You have a key role to play in educating your local Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) on the potential impacts of these reforms on your business and employees. Meeting with your MPP is the most high impact way for you to influence what the government does. You are strongly encouraged to meet and speak directly with your MPP about your concerns with the proposed changes. If there are extenuating reasons why you can’t meet with your MPP, you can outline your concerns in a letter, but this is a far less effective approach.”

“Should you have any questions, contact Leslie Smejkal, vice-president, government relations, ORHMA, lsmejkal@orhma.com or call 519-240-1277

Access the below URL to view a PDF of the ORHMA Call-to-Action Guide:

http://www.orhma.com/Portals/0/Insider/2016/ORHMA%20CALL%20TO%20ACTION%20LABOUR%20LAW%20REVIEW%20Sept%202016.pdf

Government timeline:

October 14, 2016 – ORHMA comments due to the Ministry of Labour RE: Changing Workplaces Review Interim Report

February 2017 – Estimated date for a final report of the review of the LRA & ESA submitted to the Minister of Labour.

SPRING DATE TO BE DETERMINED BY GOVERNMENT to Consult with the public.

Fall / Winter 2017 legislation amendments to be brought forward to revise the LRA and the ESA.