Saturday, August 16, 2025 Volunteer Firefighters and Severance Pay Things you should know before making any decisions about leaving the department Ontario Emergency Services Emergency Medical Services If you can’t return to your role as a volunteer firefighter due to illness or injury, you may be entitled to severance pay under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act (ESA)—even if you’re a volunteer. Don’t resign. Resigning usually means no severance and could affect WSIB benefits. Staying on the books may allow continued access to health benefits (check your collective agreement). If you’re not returning, the best outcome is often for the employer to end your employment due to “frustration of contract.” Under ESA Regulation 288/01, you may receive severance if your contract ends due to illness or disability under the Human Rights Code. Tip: Talk to your union representative before making any decisions about leaving the department. You might be interested in Closing the Gender Gap Takes More Than Equal Pay 2 Nov 2026 Accountability is a Team Sport 2 Nov 2026 Everyday Champion! 1 Nov 2026 CLAC and WOW Call for Meaningful Social Dialogue in Canada–EU Partnership 30 Oct 2026