While there are signs of increased economic activity in many sectors, some employers are not yet able to recall their workers.

To extend a “COVID-19 emergency layoff” beyond August 30th, the province has set up an online portal where employers and workers can apply jointly to the Employment Standards Branch for a further temporary layoff variance. 

Without this variance, the employment relationship will be permanently severed as of August 30th and eligible employees must be provided any severance they are owed as a result of termination. Applications must be received by the August 25th deadline to be considered. To see the full process, CLICK HERE.

The BC Chamber continues to support a simple extension to the deadline as opposed to the approach now being taken by the Province as it is an onerous process and creates additional challenges for many businesses just trying to stay afloat. This issue is poised to complicate employers’ and workers’ lives at the end of August, and likely, further slow the fragile recovery of the past five months.