Motion Media wall concept smart TV
Motion Media wall concept smart TV
Motion Media wall concept smart TV

Paul Boshyk Warns Employers about Questions Posed to Job Candidates

News Jan 2, 2020

In an interview with Catherine Skrzypinski for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), McMillan’s Paul Boshyk cautions employers and recruiters that certain questions that may seem innocent, could conflict with the provincial human rights laws that govern most employers in Canada. These provincial laws generally include provisions similar to the Canadian Human Rights Act (the Act).

In the article, Paul urged human resources departments to familiarize themselves with the prohibited grounds of discrimination, as well as their province’s human rights legislation.

In compliance with the Act, it is illegal for federal-sector employers to pose questions to candidates about a range of issues, including age, sex or gender, sexual orientation, religion or martial status. “Questions about an applicant’s availability to work after hours could reveal information about his or her family status or religion,” he said.

Other questions often asked at job interviews may be interpreted as discriminatory by the candidate, including those relating to eligibility to work in Canada. According to Paul, “Nonetheless, employers are legally required to obtain proof of eligibility to work in Canada at the outset of the employment relationship.”


Related News

News

McMillan Recognized in 2025 Chambers Global Directory

The 2025 Chambers Global Directory once again highlights McMillan’s expertise by awarding the firm a total of 36 rankings.

News Feb 13, 2025
Read More
News

McMillan LLP: Cross-Border Advisory Group in the Spotlight

At this critical time in the Canada – U.S. relationship, McMillan LLP, America’s Canadian business law firm, together with McMillan Vantage, one of Canada’s leading national public affairs firms, offer a dedicated cross-border advisory group to help business on both sides of the border navigate a complex and ever-changing trade landscape.

News Jan 30, 2025
Read More
News

McMillan LLP Hires Kelly Elliott as Chief Operating Officer

McMillan LLP, one of Canada’s national leading business law firms, is proud to announce the hiring of Kelly Elliott as its new Chief Operating Officer.

News Jan 28, 2025
Read More