Two factors are currently trending in employment disputes. The slow economy is causing private businesses and government departments to reduce operational expenses to a minimum which has seen a rise in claims of constructive dismissal and unfair terminations for alleged cause.

In addition, we are living in fearful times and employers are being required by regulations and policies to address and prevent work place violence. In many instances the processes being applied are untested and are causing a rise of claims of Charter of Rights violations. Causes of actions linked to this trend include claims for misfeasance of public office, punitive and aggravated damages. Unions are also being caught in this dilemma if they are not offering complete services to opposing bargaining unit members.