Planning for a New Child

Whether you are a student, staff or faculty member, the Family Care Office can help you as you plan for a new child. Select your group category from the options listed on the sidebar, to find out more about policies that may apply to you and about available resources.

Employment Standards

If you have worked with your current employer for at least 13 weeks, you are entitled to a leave of absence and your job will be protected. If you are pregnant, you are entitled to 17-week maternity leave in addition to up to 35 weeks of parental leave from work as outlined in employment standards legislation. For further in formation about whether employment standards covers you, please refer to the Ministry of Labour website.

Employment Insurance

If you have worked 600 insured hours during the 52 weeks prior to the start of your leave, you may be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). Detailed information about Employment Insurance can be accessed through the Service Canada website. EI forms can be picked up at the Family Care Office or at your local HRSDC office, which you can find by checking the blue pages of the phone book. Lesbian and gay partners are recognized under employment standards, and they are covered under employment insurance.