We’re here to help
To help you navigate these challenging times, this page provides information on pandemic-related restrictions, support measures, government services, and useful CFIB resources for New Brunswick. You’ll also learn how CFIB is fighting for your business.
Update: January 18th
All health zones in New Brunswick are currently in Level 3 of the COVID-19 alert system.
Protecting your staff, customers, and business is a top priority, so we’ve put together an operational plan template to help you do just that. With tips for best practices, advice on meeting provincial compliance requirements, and links to downloadable COVID-19 resources, the plan is clear, concise, and easy to tailor to your needs.
New Brunswick uses a three level COVID-19 alert system.
The risk of COVID-19 transmission continues in New Brunswick. As an employer, you must take every reasonable precaution to keep your workplace healthy and safe.
- WorkSafeNB: Communicable disease prevention
- WorkSafeNB: What to do if Your Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19
- WorkSafeNB: Guidance for employers: Level 3 COVID-19 winter action plan
Please see the official New Brunswick Vaccine page.
It may be possible to put a vaccination policy in place, or to make being vaccinated a condition of employment; however, it is important that accommodations are made for employees who cannot be vaccinated for medical or religious reasons. It is worth noting that terminating an employee for not getting the vaccine could lead to a claim of unfair dismissal.
Before implementing a mandatory vaccination policy, consider the following:
- Does the workplace serve a vulnerable population?
- What is the nature and duration of the employee’s contact with that population?
- Assess risk for different positions – you may want to avoid an all-employee blanket policy.
Ensure the policy is clear and employees understand consequences for non-compliance.
It is strongly recommended you consult with legal counsel to evaluate the risk of a mandatory vaccination policy in your workplace.
CFIB has a template vaccination policy available to members in our Resource Library. Please note: due to the legal implications, our Advisors are not in a position to help customize this template. To customize it, you should speak with a lawyer.
With Canada firmly in the grip of COVID-19, it is anything but business as usual. Many businesses are closing their doors and laying off staff, others have employees refusing to come to work. We are all stressed and everyone is worried about their health and financial well-being. Amidst this turbulence, you as a business leader are scrambling to keep your business afloat while leading your staff through these uncertain times.
Here are links to resources you can access if you’re feeling overwhelmed:
New Brunswick
- Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19
- Text TALK to 686868 or call 1-800-668-6868 to chat with a volunteer Crisis Responder 24/7
- CHIMO Helpline or 1-800-667-5005
- Addictions and mental health
Federal
- Government of Canada
- Mental health and wellness
- Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use Support
- COVID-19 Information Line 1 833 784 4397
- Mental Health Commission of Canada
- Canadian Mental Health Association
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Morneau Shepell – CFIB’s partner
Up to $10,000 in non-repayable grant funding is being made available for eligible businesses to offset the impacts of COVID-19. Online application will begin on January 24th 2022 through the Opportunities NB website. Business Navigators are available to assist in the application process at [email protected] or phone at 1(833) 799-7966.
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Self-Employed Lockdown Fund (SELF) provides a $2,000 grant to New Brunswick businesses without employees. Applications can be made online through the Opportunities NB website beginning February 1, 2022 and will be accepted for the period ending January 31, 2022.
New Brunswick businesses who have questions about provincial government support and regulations can contact the Business Navigator service by phone at 1-833-799-7966 or by email [email protected]
| What we’re asking for | |
| As we regularly communicate with the New Brunswick government to get answers to your questions, we are actively lobbying them to: | |
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Learn more on how CFIB is fighting for better relief at the federal level.
Our primary concern at CFIB is making sure you have the support you need to get through this uncertain and challenging time. We provide you with expert advice and ensure that you have all of the latest information on government announcements and available support.