Jasper Employment and Education Centre has released advice for employers during the COVID-19 crisis.
In Jasper, more than 50 employers have reduced operating hours or closed, including schools, the ski hill and Parks Canada, meaning hundreds of workers have been laid off.
"Due to the recent developments involving mass layoffs in Jasper, we are doing our part to stay informed and up to date on the correct process to follow," said JEEC executive director Ginette Marcoux.
As many employers are processing Records of Employment (ROEs), the centre shared the following advice:
- For the COVID-19 pandemic specifically, if staff are being laid off due to a drop in business, please use Code A: Shortage of Work.
- If employees are sick or have self-quarantined due to COVID 19 use Code D: Sick.
- Parents unable to come to work due to childcare/ School closures or taking care of loved ones; use Code K (other).
- You have FIVE days to submit an ROE following the last paycheck issued, we recommend that you issue ROE's as quickly as possible. Incorrect ROE's will delay the processing of claims for your employees.
- All employees on work visas WILL MOST LIKELY qualify for EI benefits if they have enough hours. Encourage everyone to apply regardless, if they do not qualify for EI benefits they may qualify for Emergency Support Benefits. This is an amendment made for the COVID emergency. Access to these benefits is through the EI application process.
- Employees who may not typically qualify for EI due to a shortage of hours worked in the past year, WILL MOST LIKELY qualify for Emergency Support Benefits. This has also been amended for COVID. Access to these benefits is through the EI application process.
Marcoux said all laid-off workers should apply for EI immediately.
"Even if they are waiting for ROEs to be submitted, they can start the process by setting up their account with Service Canada," said Marcoux.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 780 852 4118, ext 1.
