COVID-19 UPDATE: WHAT EMPLOYERS NEED TO KNOW

on Tuesday, 09 June 2020. Posted in Latest Articles, Employment, Business

Alert Level 1 Frequently Asked Questions

As we all adjust to the “new normal”, it is more important than ever that employers understand their rights; obligations; and the key changes that have been made which may affect their businesses.

The situation is changing daily and we will be providing updates as necessary – please check back here!

Otherwise, we encourage you to keep in touch with our employment law team to discuss any implications/decisions for your specific situation. We are here to help.

Alastair Hall, Partner

Joelle Avery, Senior Associate

WAGE SUBSIDY EXTENSION

The Wage Subsidy Extension is part of the Government's Covid-19 Response and Recovery Fund. The intent of the Extension is to keep employees in work and help support business response to the COVID-19 crisis.

We are yet to see the full details of the Wage Subsidy Extension scheme; this is due out prior to June 10. Based on the guidance to date, we have prepared a short summary on the scheme.

View: Wage Subsidy Extension Summary (updated 20 May)

RESTRUCTURING DURING COVID-19

The significant economic impact of COVID-19 means some businesses may have to contemplate restructuring their business. In this article we discuss important considerations for employers at this time including redundancy.

View: Restructuring during COVID-19 (updated 6 May)

Covid-19 EMPLOYMENT GUIDANCE

ALERT LEVEL 1

This summary provides guidance on Level 1 for employers and workplaces.

View: Alert Level 1 Frequently Asked Questions (updated 9 June)

aLERT LEVEL 2

At this level, we will see more businesses reopening and employees returning to the workplace. However, the rules remain the same – only reopen if you can provide a safe and healthy workplace; utilise alternative methods of working where possible and everyone needs to “play it safe”.

View: Alert Level 2 Frequently Asked Questions (updated 13 May)

ALERT LEVEL 3

This summary provides guidance on employment obligations and how to prepare for a safe reopening of the workplace.

View: Alert Level 3 FAQ (updated 1 May)

View: Health and Safety at Alert Level 3 (updated 1 May)

alert level 4

Here, we set out a summary of the most frequently asked questions on the wage subsidy; essential services; redundancies and more. We have outlined below some employee scenarios we are seeing regularly as well.

View: Employee Scenarios (updated 1 May)

View: Frequently Asked Questions (updated 1 May)