There have been several recent changes in Ontario law that have come into effect, or will soon, that impact amateur sport organizations in Ontario that have paid employees (including most NSOs located in this province). Employment Standards Act (ESA) The Ontario Ministry of Labour has prepared … [Read more...] about Compliance Issues for 2015 – Ontario Employers Take Note!
Coaches’ Liability and Responsibilities to Athletes
Regardless of their certification level, experience, employment or volunteer status, sport discipline, or location, coaches have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment for their athletes at all times. This obligation extends to ensuring that coaches have met the standard of care that is … [Read more...] about Coaches’ Liability and Responsibilities to Athletes
New Anti-Spam Legislation – What Does it Mean for Sport Organizations?
Canada’s Anti-Spam Law* (CASL) was passed in December 2010 and is expected to come into force on July 1, 2014. Once in effect, the CASL is intended to protect Canadians from receiving unwanted communications while ensuring that businesses can continue to operate and compete in the … [Read more...] about New Anti-Spam Legislation – What Does it Mean for Sport Organizations?
Update on the Use of Religious Headwear during Soccer Matches
We have been following this issue since it first arose in 2012, when the Quebec Soccer Federation (QSF) issued a rule prohibiting its players from wearing turbans and other religious headgear. This discriminatory ban prompted the Canadian Soccer Association to suspend the QSF’s membership with the … [Read more...] about Update on the Use of Religious Headwear during Soccer Matches
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) – Compliance
Beginning January 1, 2012, all providers of goods and services within the province of Ontario, including charities and not-for-profit organizations will be required to comply with parts of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). This legislation affects every Ontario PSO, as … [Read more...] about Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) – Compliance
Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Compliance
Last month we gave a presentation to the membership of the Sport Alliance of Ontario (SAO) relating to the requirements of the newly legislated provincial Bill 168 – Workplace Violence and Harassment. This topic generated numerous questions and made us realize that many NSOs, PSOs and MSOs may have … [Read more...] about Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Compliance