{"id":6643,"date":"2025-10-27T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-27T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/?post_type=ceo-notes&#038;p=6643"},"modified":"2025-10-26T17:07:10","modified_gmt":"2025-10-26T21:07:10","slug":"the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs","status":"publish","type":"ceo-notes","link":"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/fr\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/","title":{"rendered":"The future of our industry depends on political recognition of our workforce needs."},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"entries-filter button-tabs\">\n    <div class=\"filters\">\n        <ul>\n                    <li class=\"filter\">\n                <a class=\"btn btn-secondary \" href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/#federal\">Federal<\/a>\n            <\/li>\n                    <li class=\"filter\">\n                <a class=\"btn btn-secondary \" href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/#sustainability\">Sustainability<\/a>\n            <\/li>\n                    <li class=\"filter\">\n                <a class=\"btn btn-secondary \" href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/#quebec\">Quebec<\/a>\n            <\/li>\n                    <li class=\"filter\">\n                <a class=\"btn btn-secondary \" href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/#central\">Central<\/a>\n            <\/li>\n                    <li class=\"filter\">\n                <a class=\"btn btn-secondary \" href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/ceo-note\/the-future-of-our-industry-depends-on-political-recognition-of-our-workforce-needs\/#western\">Western<\/a>\n            <\/li>\n                <\/ul>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Last week, Restaurants Canada opened registration for RC Show 2026 and announced this year\u2019s Show theme: <strong><em>Into the Beyond<\/em><\/strong>. These aren\u2019t just evocative words or a marketing slogan; they\u2019re a call to accept the truth: we\u2019re not going back to where we\u2019ve been. It\u2019s time for our industry to move forward together, readying our businesses to face the challenge and embrace the promise of the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/rcshow.restaurantscanada.org\/#\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6648\" style=\"width:1000px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Keynotes-v2-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve also announced the lineup of 2026 keynote speakers. <strong>Chockie Tom<\/strong>, Bar and Beverage keynote, Indigenous Drinks Advocate, and founder of <em>The Cornsilk Road<\/em> will speak on reconnection and forging sustainable, responsible systems for the future. <strong>Janet Zuccarini<\/strong>, Founder and CEO of Gusto 54 Restaurant Group\u2019s unfiltered fireside chat will explore fearlessness, scaling with creativity, and driving a future-ready culture. And Canadian astronaut and author <strong>Colonel Chris Hadfield<\/strong>\u2014an unlikely restaurateur who warmly recalls his experience operating a small restaurant on the International Space Station\u2014will share an inspirational presentation on leadership, thinking big, and building an agile, future-ready industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>RC Show Competitions: Invest in Your Talent<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/rcshow.restaurantscanada.org\/#\/competitions\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6650\" style=\"width:1000px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CEO-Note-RC-Show-Competitions-1-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More exciting announcements about this year\u2019s Show are on the way\u2014but right now, I want to shine a light on one of the most valuable and often underestimated aspects of the event: <strong>RC Show competitions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Competitions aren\u2019t just a stage for culinary flair or technical mastery; they\u2019re a platform for professional growth. When you encourage your chefs, cooks, baristas, or bartenders to compete, you\u2019re investing in their confidence, career trajectory, and sense of purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For operators, this is an opportunity to turn talent development into brand impact. Team members who compete gain exposure to new techniques, products, and industry leaders. They return to your business inspired, motivated, and equipped with fresh insights that elevate the guest experience. It\u2019s a rare form of professional development that\u2019s both practical and energizing. By sponsoring or supporting your staff\u2019s participation, you\u2019re sending a powerful message: that growth, creativity, and excellence matter. You\u2019re not just running a business\u2014you\u2019re building a culture of possibility. And that\u2019s exactly what the future of our industry depends on. I encourage you to take a look at the <a href=\"https:\/\/rcshow.restaurantscanada.org\/#\/competitions?lang=en\"><strong>RC Show competitions<\/strong><\/a> and think about who on your team is ready to take the next step. Because when they rise, your whole business rises with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>GST Campaign Update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you know, over the past several weeks, our team has made significant progress pushing our GST campaign, resulting in a substantial increase in signatures.&nbsp;Thank you to those who helped amplify and support the campaign. We continue to actively engage Members of Parliament from both sides of the aisle, receiving positive, receptive responses. This initiative has been a key focus throughout the summer and fall, and we remain committed to advancing this issue, especially if no movement occurs in the upcoming budget\u2014because it just makes sense!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The core of our advocacy centres on the permanent removal of the 5 per cent GST on all food, including restaurant-prepared meals\u2014a measure that addresses long-standing economic challenges faced by Canadians: food inflation, persistent affordability issues, youth employment and a lagging economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we know, this policy change could save Canadian households $5.4 billion annually, create up to 80,000 new jobs (40 per cent of which would benefit youth), and generate an additional $1.5 billion in government revenue through increased economic activity and reduced Employment Insurance claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over 80 per cent of Canadians support making this exemption permanent, recognizing its potential to improve affordability, support small businesses, and foster growth in the foodservice sector. Restaurants Canada strongly recommends that the federal government adopt this policy as part of its broader economic recovery and affordability strategy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our work will continue.&nbsp;You can read the <strong>Restaurants Canada press release <\/strong>detailing the full impact of permanent tax exemption on prepared food <a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/restaurants-could-create-25000-additional-youth-jobs-with-boost-from-permanent-gst-exemption\/\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>, and the most <strong>recent letter<\/strong> we sent to the Minister of Finance <a href=\"https:\/\/crm.restaurantscanada.org\/sites\/crm.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Restaurants-Canada-Petition-Signatures-Letter-Oct-23-2025.pdf\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Globe and Mail Events: Building Canada\u2019s Workforce<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"6654\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-54.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6654\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-54.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-54-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-54-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-54-600x450.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6655\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-53.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6655\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-53.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-53-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Image-53-600x800.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of speaking at <strong>The Globe and Mail Events: Building Canada\u2019s Workforce<\/strong>, joining a panel of business leaders to discuss innovative workforce solutions and needs. In a time of political and demographic change, collaboration has never been more important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The future of our industry depends on political recognition of our workforce needs, addressing geographic and demographic challenges, and understanding the economic and community impact we generate. A smart, strategic immigration approach is essential to ensure a resilient, diverse, and accessible workforce\u2014one that supports long-term success.&nbsp; Alongside smart immigration, I shared how our sector is embracing workplace best practices, enhancing our people practices and spearheading innovative, technology-driven solutions that strengthen our industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Conversations like these provide an invaluable opportunity to ensure the foodservice sector is strongly represented around the workforce table in addition to sharing insights and exploring new strategies that will help Canada\u2019s hospitality sector thrive for generations to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can read the summary or watch the full event recording <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theglobeandmail.com\/events\/article-how-will-we-build-canadas-workforce\/\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a> (the panel discussion begins at 52:00).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The September REACT Survey is Ready<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Restaurant Expectations and Consumer Trends (REACT) survey was developed by the Restaurants Canada Intelligence team to deliver timely consumer insights, enabling the foodservice industry to respond more quickly to evolving market conditions. Each month, the survey gathers responses from 1,500 Canadians, tracking restaurant purchases by daypart and future dining intentions to provide an ongoing view of consumer behaviour and sentiment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>REACT Highlights<\/em><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">September 2025 saw Canadians balancing budgets with social connection. While 41 per cent are cutting back on restaurant visits, 30 per cent are dining out more for social gatherings. Dining out continues to play an important role in how Canadians connect. Click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/members\/login\/?redirect_to=https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/research\/react-survey-september-2025\/\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a> to read the full REACT report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>CHF: Reigniting Support for Future Hospitality Leaders<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thechf.ca\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6652\" style=\"width:1000px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CHF-Launch-CEO-Note-v1-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019re proud to announce the relaunch of the <a href=\"https:\/\/thechf.ca\/\"><strong>Canadian Hospitality Foundation<\/strong><\/a> (CHF)\u2014Canada\u2019s only national charity dedicated to supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals. With culinary and hospitality programs across the country facing growing challenges, there\u2019s never been a more critical time to invest in the future of our industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re passionate about nurturing emerging talent or wish to lend your support through mentorship, donations or set up a legacy endowment , we invite you to connect with CHF Managing Director <a href=\"mailto:CPantaleo@restaurantscanada.org\">Carol Pantaleo<\/a> and be part of rebuilding a stronger foundation for Canada\u2019s hospitality workforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thank you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.garlandcanada.ca\/\">Garland Canada<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ubereats.com\/ca\">Uber Eats<\/a>, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mafsi.org\/\">Manufacturers\u2019 Agents Association for the Foodservice Industry<\/a> (MAFSI), who, in addition to Restaurants Canada, have invested in CHF along the way to get us to this exciting milestone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Small Businesses: Watch this Webinar to Learn How to Get Paid<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Running a small business in foodservice means balancing rising costs, shifting customer expectations, and the daily stress of operations. On top of it all, getting paid\u2014whether on time (especially caterers), in the right way, or without added expense\u2014can be one of the toughest challenges. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/webinar\/relief-for-small-business-challenges\/\"><strong>Watch<\/strong><\/a> the webinar, <strong>Getting Paid: Relief for Small Business Challenges<\/strong>, with Sophie Lambert, Group Product Manager, Segment Expansion &amp; Product Operations and Sopana Selvachandran, Director, Solutions Engineering,\u200b Money Movement at Interac on demand, and get the relief and solutions you need.<br><br>This Webinar is presented in partnership with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.interac.ca\/en\/\"><strong>Interac<\/strong><\/a>, a Restaurants Canada&nbsp;Corporate Sponsor. Watch it on demand <a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/webinar\/relief-for-small-business-challenges\/\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Canadian Restaurant Investment &amp; Leadership Summit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 13<sup>th<\/sup> will mark a special milestone for our industry community: the <strong>15th anniversary of the Canadian Restaurant Investment &amp; Leadership Summit (CRILS)<\/strong>. What began as a small gathering of passionate operators and investors has grown into one of the most anticipated annual events in Canadian hospitality\u2014a place where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are forged, and the future of our industry takes shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This year\u2019s Summit takes place on November 13<sup>th<\/sup> at <strong>Roserock Place<\/strong>, one of National Bank\u2019s beautiful Toronto homes, to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new ones. Bringing together <strong>CEOs, senior executives, and industry leaders<\/strong> from across the country, the event will dive into the trends and challenges redefining foodservice in Canada\u2014and how together, we can lead what comes next. You can learn more and register <a href=\"https:\/\/restaurantsummit.ca\/en\/\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>. I will be participating in the CEO panel, and hope to see you there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Welcome back to Restaurants Canada\u2019s VP, Sustainability!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are delighted to welcome Jillian Rodak, our VP, Sustainability back from her maternity leave. We encourage you to reach out to Jillian with all sustainability queries at <a href=\"mailto:JRodak@restaurantscanada.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JRodak@restaurantscanada.org<\/a>, and read her report below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"federal\">FEDERAL UPDATE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>From Matt Triemstra | Vice President, Federal Affairs<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Federal Budget<\/strong><strong>&nbsp;Release<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All eyes in Ottawa are on the federal budget, set to be released on November 4!&nbsp;Restaurants Canada continued our GST advocacy push and are thrilled that over 7,500 Canadians from coast to coast have signed our petition!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This week we took the opportunity to highlight that the federal government could add more than 25,000 youth jobs in the foodservice industry by eliminating the GST from restaurant meals. Read our release&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/restaurants-could-create-25000-additional-youth-jobs-with-boost-from-permanent-gst-exemption\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Consultation Updates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restaurants Canada is looking forward to participating in the <strong>federal committee study on youth employment<\/strong> by the&nbsp;<strong>Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities<\/strong>, we have such a great story to tell!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We also participated in a formal consultation with the&nbsp;<strong>Canadian Dairy Commission<\/strong>&nbsp;on pricing, which will be announced on October 31, 2025, and are looking forward to engaging on the government\u2019s consultation on the&nbsp;<strong>Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Crime and Public Safety<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know that crime and public safety issues have emerged as a top issue for restaurants in Canada. In fact, 72 per cent of operators have seen an increase in crime\/community safety issues near their restaurants over the last six to 12 months, which is why Restaurants Canada has been actively engaging with all levels of government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We welcomed Prime Minister Mark Carney\u2019s recent announcement of measures to further protect Canadians and our communities, including strengthening Canada\u2019s&nbsp;criminal code&nbsp;to keep violent and repeat offenders out of our communities and a commitment to hire 1,000 Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) personnel. You can read the Prime Ministers press release&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pm.gc.ca\/en\/news\/news-releases\/2025\/10\/16\/prime-minister-carney-announces-new-measures-combat-crime\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>New Job Bank<\/strong><strong>&nbsp;Directives Impacting LMIA Applications<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve also closely been following new information from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) regarding new directives for the recruitment of Canadians and permanent residents prior to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you know, before being able to access the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) employers are required to demonstrate that they have made reasonable efforts to recruit Canadians and permanent residents prior to hiring a temporary foreign worker.&nbsp;Recently announced changes require that, effective immediately, when using Job Bank for an LMIA application, both Job Match and Direct Apply&nbsp;must remain enabled under the employer\u2019s Job Bank account.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know that access to foreign workers is the number one issue for our members. Your government relations team will continue to advocate for greater access to all immigration streams throughout the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sustainability\">SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>From Jillian Rodak | Vice President, Sustainability<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Annual Producer Meeting: BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia &amp; Yukon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On&nbsp;October 16,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.circularmaterials.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Circular Materials<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stewardshipmanitoba.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba<\/a>&nbsp;(MMSM),&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/skrecycles.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SK Recycles<\/a>, and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/recyclebc.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Recycle BC<\/a>&nbsp;co-hosted the 2025 Annual Producer Meeting to provide updates on program performance and present the&nbsp;2026 fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a reminder, fees for Ontario\u2019s Blue Box program are shared directly with producers by their selected PROs, as Ontario operates under a competitive program model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A major update included the new Harmonized National Reporting Categories, meaning that materials will have the same EPR reporting categorization across Canada. Producers will be expected to report their 2026 supply data using these categories for their 2027 annual producer reports. See materials linked below for more information on this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Click&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/knowledge.werecycle.ca\/@api\/deki\/files\/5513\/2025_APM-Presentation_FINAL.pdf?revision=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>&nbsp;for the presentation deck, and here for the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/knowledge.werecycle.ca\/@api\/deki\/files\/5512\/Report_to_Producers_2025_-_OCT16_-_FINAL.pdf?revision=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Report to Producers<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Upcoming Fee Changes and Important Webinars for Quebec Operators<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>On October 28, <\/strong>Quebec&rsquo;s packaging recycling&nbsp;fees will be shared by&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eeq.ca\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Eco Entreprises Quebec<\/a>&nbsp;(EEQ):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/studiocast.ca\/client\/eeq\/event\/11815\/en\/\">Register<\/a> for the webinar on 2026<strong> Producer Financial Participation <\/strong>(fees), happening<strong>&nbsp;Tuesday, <\/strong><strong>October 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30am EDT.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourage your financial team to <a href=\"https:\/\/studiocast.ca\/client\/eeq\/event\/11777\/en\/\">register<\/a> for the <strong>online briefing session on the 2026-27 financial forecasts<\/strong> to support budgeting activities, taking place <strong>October 28<\/strong> from 1:30 \u2013 2:30 p.m. EDT.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We attended the <strong>EEQ Association Committee<\/strong> meeting last week to provide industry feedback ahead of the 28th Producer Meeting. EEQ indicated optimism that the expansion of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to sectors beyond residential may be delayed until after 2030. We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>If you are new to EPR or need clarification about your obligations<\/strong><\/em><em>, please reach out to the Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), linked above, or contact me at&nbsp;<\/em><a href=\"mailto:jrodak@restaurantscanada.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>jrodak@restaurantscanada.org<\/em><\/a><em>. Stay tuned for more ways RC plans to support you with navigating your EPR compliance.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>City of Toronto Single-use and Takeaway items bylaw consultations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the consultation on the proposed expansion to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.toronto.ca\/services-payments\/recycling-organics-garbage\/waste-management\/reducing-single-use-takeaway-items\/single-use-takeaway-items-reduction-strategy-bylaw\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy and Bylaw<\/a>&nbsp;in Toronto continues, we remain engaged in opportunities to share our industry&rsquo;s experiences and perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to direct meetings with the city, we attended an industry focus group last week and are providing written feedback to complement our discussions. As a reminder, this bylaw would introduce reuse provisions, including allowing customers to bring their own food containers and requiring the use of reusable plates and cutlery for dine-in service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HAVE YOUR SAY:<\/strong> The city has opened a poll for businesses to provide further feedback on this consultation. If you have not yet received a unique link to the poll directly from the City of Toronto, please email&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:reducewaste@toronto.ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reducewaste@toronto.ca<\/a>&nbsp;today to request your unique link. Your feedback is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Join us at the November Sustainability Committee Meeting!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The next Sustainability Committee meeting is scheduled for&nbsp;<strong>November 6, 2025<\/strong>. Join our committee to share your feedback, take part in monthly meetings and\/or receive meeting materials to stay up to date on sustainability and regulatory developments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To join, please email&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:jrodak@restaurantscanada.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jrodak@restaurantscanada.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"quebec\">QUEBEC UPDATE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>From Marie-Pier Richard | Vice President, Quebec<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bonjour chers membres du Qu\u00e9bec,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Les derni\u00e8res semaines furent bien occup\u00e9es avec diff\u00e9rentes rencontres de Bienvenue de mon c\u00f4t\u00e9. J\u2019ai eu la chance de rencontrer les franchis\u00e9s de l\u2019Ouest du Qu\u00e9bec de McDonald \u00e0 Montr\u00e9al et ceux de l\u2019est du Qu\u00e9bec lors du rencontre \u00e0 Qu\u00e9bec, une belle occasion de me pr\u00e9senter et aussi de faire le point sur nos actions de relations gouvernementales depuis mon arriv\u00e9e en poste et \u00e0 venir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">J\u2019ai profit\u00e9 de mon d\u00e9placement \u00e0 Montr\u00e9al pour rencontrer l\u2019Association des Brasseurs du Qu\u00e9bec et voir les possibilit\u00e9s de collaborations entre nos deux organisations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Comme c\u2019est p\u00e9riode de campagne \u00e9lectorale municipale, j\u2019ai assist\u00e9 au d\u00e9bat des candidats \u00e0 la mairie de Qu\u00e9bec pour entendre leurs positions sur les diff\u00e9rents enjeux \u00e9conomiques et connaitre leurs intentions sur notre industrie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47-1024x538.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6646\" style=\"width:750px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47-1024x538.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47-300x158.png 300w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47-768x403.png 768w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47-600x315.png 600w, https:\/\/www.restaurantscanada.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RC-Insider-600x315-47.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finalement, je participe aujourd\u2019hui au Forum Vision Qu\u00e9bec, un \u00e9v\u00e9nement provincial organis\u00e9 par la chambre de commerce et de l\u2019industrie de Qu\u00e9bec et le Cercle Finances du Qu\u00e9bec visant une r\u00e9flexion en profondeur sur l\u2019avenir \u00e9conomique du Qu\u00e9bec avec comme invit\u00e9 principal, l\u2019ancien premier Ministre Jean Charest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hello dear members of Quebec! The past few weeks have been very busy with various welcome meetings on my schedule. I had the chance to meet the <strong>McDonald&rsquo;s franchisees<\/strong> from Western Quebec in Montreal and those from Eastern Quebec during the meeting in Quebec City, which were great opportunities to introduce myself and also to review Restaurants Canada government relations activities since I took office\u2014and those yet to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Quebec City municipal election campaign is underway, where I attended the debate of the city\u2019s mayoral candidates to hear their positions on the various economic issues and understand their intentions regarding our industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While in Montreal, I was also able to meet with the <strong>Quebec Brewers Association<\/strong> and explore opportunities for collaboration between our two organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On October 21, I participated in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cciquebec.ca\/activites\/forum-vision-quebec\/\"><strong>Vision Quebec Forum<\/strong><\/a>, a provincial event organized by the Quebec Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Cercle Finance du Qu\u00e9bec. The event provides an in-depth forum for reflection on the economic future of the province, with former <strong>Premier Jean Charest<\/strong> as the keynote guest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"central\">CENTRAL CANADA UPDATE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>From Kris Barnier | Vice President, Central Canada and the North<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em><strong>Ontario<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>Alcohol: <\/strong><\/em>Last week, LCBO posted an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/rest-zgp.maillist-manage.ca\/click\/1b41477b68d8a9\/1b41477b65c930\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>update<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;on upcoming changes to wholesale pricing. Key highlights include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>New pricing formula will come into effect <strong>January 1, 2026<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brewers may continue to set separate wholesale prices for licensees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suppliers have until <strong>November 20<\/strong> to adjust prices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>LCBO plans to:<ul><li>Enable faster product listings and open listing access by <strong>July 1, 2026<\/strong>.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Open access to products that are currently only available in LCBO retail (with the exception of spirits).<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Explore distribution changes to support private retailer delivery options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We expect further updates soon on how beer ordering and delivery will work in future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restaurants Canada remains highly active on this file, engaging with the province and LCBO. We will continue to work to protect member interests on pricing, product access, and logistics and are assessing the implications of today\u2019s announcement. We will share additional analysis once available. In the meantime, please reach out if you have any questions you\u2019d like us submit to the LCBO or other stakeholders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>Manitoba<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Crime Grant: Business Security Rebate: <\/strong>We remain hopeful that the Government of Manitoba will announce the opening of applications for its promised Business Security Rebate Program this month. Both MRFA and Restaurants Canada have been actively reaching out to call on the province to move urgently to open the program to allow restaurants to quickly invest in the safety of their businesses, staff and patrons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Free Webinar: Reducing Crime Through Effective Reporting<br>November 12, 2025 | 1:30 \u2013 2:30 p.m. (Central)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Join the Winnipeg Police Service, Brandon Police Service and the Manitoba Retail Crime Task Force for a free one-hour webinar that includes practical insights to help learn how to report incidents confidently and effectively. The Manitoba Retail Crime Task Force will also provide an update on current initiatives. Learn:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why reporting matters (track crime trends &amp; patterns, prevent repeat incidents, and protect your business and employees)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Misconceptions of what and when to report<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to efficiently report an incident<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What makes an effective report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to follow up on your case.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Register <a href=\"https:\/\/us02web.zoom.us\/meeting\/register\/R8M5VfiUSq6SewVu__ZqWg#\/registration\"><strong>here<\/strong><\/a>. With thanks to our friends at the Retail Council of Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"western\">WESTERN CANADA UPDATE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>From Mark von Schellwitz | Vice President, Western Canada<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>BCGEU Strike Update: Survey Results and Joint Press Conference<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the BCGEU strike enters its eighth week, I\u2019d like to thank those members who answered the call to complete the strike impact <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbcrfa.us4.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3D420e1dfba567033b186e46372%26id%3D4d6653b220%26e%3D0f552911ae&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7C2edf98223ddd4f8f9aee08de0b4b560e%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638960615404947569%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=X84Vt6LOjzSK4O2GbLzeQcteSD8LH8nYUzCR65lUNeI%3D&amp;reserved=0\">survey<\/a>. On Friday, October 17, Restaurants Canada teamed up with our industry allies BCRFA, IVSA, ABLE BC, BC Craft Brewers Guild, and Wines of BC for a joint press conference and issued the following <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmailchi.mp%2Fwinebc.com%2Fmedia-release-october-17-6705389%3Fe%3D1a16729672&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7C01f85d33c781428b06ba08de0da4c1ec%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638963198494381687%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=l5xNRFkWe%2BImknIC2XNjEn%2FRknAfaBSjgtLd22otcxY%3D&amp;reserved=0\">press release<\/a> to share the survey results and demand immediate emergency measures to halt the serious economic damage being caused by the strike on BC\u2019s hospitality industry and liquor supply chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restaurants Canada also issued the following&nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.restaurantscanada.org%2Frestaurants-canada-calls-for-immediate-end-to-bc-liquor-strike-78-of-bars-and-restaurants-worried-about-survival%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7C4d5a16d7155b4422517308de0dac4556%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638963230739164326%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=fSCNEWc2j89kTco1OPL6PVHMEOdRoCEckGpqz%2BvPDJ0%3D&amp;reserved=0\">statement<\/a> on the survey results. In just a couple of days, we had over 500 survey responses and the results confirmed what we were hearing from members. Some of the survey result highlights are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>78% of bars and restaurants are worried about their survival<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>76% are facing workforce reductions<ul><li>6% have already laid off employees<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>41% will lay off staff if the strike continues<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>29% have already reduced employee hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>66% are experiencing significant cost increases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>27% have over $100,000 in inventory trapped in warehouses, unable to reach consumers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The industry coalition estimates that the strike has already cost over $250 million in lost liquor sales.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We also expressed our concern that, once the strike is over, it will take time to deal with the order backlog which could impact liquor orders for the upcoming, busy pre-Christmas season. We are asking that an emergency plan be implemented to quickly address the order backlog and get back to normal liquor distribution operations as quickly as possible once the strike is over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The press conference and release resulted in considerable media coverage which will hopefully continue to put pressure on the BC government to implement an emergency plan to restore liquor distribution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also on October 17, we learned that both sides in the dispute have agreed to non-binding mediation with respected mediators Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers. This will hopefully bring the two sides together and lead to a quick resolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the meantime, Restaurants Canada and our industry allies will continue to pressure the government to implement an emergency plan to resume liquor distribution and quickly process the liquor order backlog to minimize the impact on the pre-Christmas liquor order period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>UPDATE: We are pleased to report that on Sunday October 26th BCGEU and the government reached a tentative agreement ending the eight week strike. Restaurants Canada is now working with other stakeholders to implement an emergency plan to ramp up liquor distribution and deal with the order backlog as quickly as possible.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>BC Introduces Employment Standards (Serious Illness or Injury Leave) Amendment Act<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On October 20, BC\u2019s Minister of Labour introduced <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.leg.bc.ca%2Fparliamentary-business%2Foverview%2F43rd-parliament%2F1st-session%2Fbills%2F1st_read%2Fgov30-1.htm&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7C62108a11d1d24ebc4e5808de10c6567b%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638966641231623010%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VlhywwSJrMMp9lm7zv787BU1V5pSdcnD%2B9TEpfI54Tg%3D&amp;reserved=0\">Bill 30 &#8211; Employment Standards Amendment Act<\/a>. The Employment Standards Amendment deals with serious illness or injury leave and follows a consultation discussion paper over the summer where Restaurants Canada provided the labour ministry with a <a href=\"https:\/\/acrobat.adobe.com\/id\/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:3dd1b753-bf42-4421-b466-e91eeb2a677d\">submission<\/a> highlighting industry concerns including recommendations regarding the proposed legislation. If passed, the legislation would establish a new, unpaid job protected leave entitlement of up to 27 weeks in a 52-week period for employees experiencing a serious illness or injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The legislation timeframe coincides with financial supports available through the federal Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits program and is consistent with serious illness and injury leave in other Canadian jurisdictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More information on the legislation can be found in the BC government\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnews.gov.bc.ca%2Freleases%2F2025LBR0039-001029&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7C62108a11d1d24ebc4e5808de10c6567b%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638966641231662775%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=kcy31X7omomgRFw1RCXwGjrS6hnxgPcRzeeZPU2duiw%3D&amp;reserved=0\">Bill 30 press release<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Alberta Municipal Elections<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On October 20, Albertans went to the polls in all municipalities to elect Mayors and Councils across the province, with many tight races in several municipalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">New mayors were elected in Alberta\u2019s two largest cities. In Edmonton, Andrew Knack comfortably won to become Edmonton\u2019s new Mayor replacing Amarjeet Sohi who announced he would not be seeking re-election. In Calgary, former Councillor Jeromy Farkas was elected Mayor in a tightly contested race, winning over Councillor Sonya Sharp by 585 votes. Calgary Mayor Jodi Gondek\u2019s re-election bid was unsuccessful as she ran a distant third in the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Please note: This update was completed on October 23. Members are encouraged refer to your local government websites for official and complete municipal election results in your community.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulatory Review<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restaurants Canada has been invited to participate in an <a href=\"https:\/\/can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saskatchewan.ca%2Fgovernment%2Fpublic-engagement%2Fthe-occupational-health-and-safety-regulations-2020&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmark%40restaurantscanada.org%7Ca00416cc11f94c0ca0ac08de069311f7%7C61cb36f37b9748749f545d6df95ce6d4%7C0%7C0%7C638955426234357524%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=nQk45O%2B3Z26UxEFo6gb%2F12dDO%2B6093b7wwWHT%2FGX0Zo%3D&amp;reserved=0\">Occupational Health and Safety Regulatory Review<\/a> which could impact restaurant operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Saskatchewan members are encouraged to provide feedback either directly at <a href=\"mailto:legislation.labour@gov.sk.ca\">legislation.labour@gov.sk.ca<\/a> or through Restaurants Canada by responding to the \u2018Questions for Consideration\u2019 in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulatory Review <a href=\"https:\/\/acrobat.adobe.com\/id\/urn:aaid:sc:va6c2:5f0834e9-7cd9-4698-bae8-07fa40a10695\">discussion paper<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any feedback received by Restaurants Canada will be incorporated into our submission. <strong>The feedback deadline is November 30, 2025.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wishing you a safe, profitable fall season,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last week, Restaurants Canada opened registration for RC Show 2026 and announced this year\u2019s Show theme: Into the Beyond. 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