Friday, August 9, 2002
Canadian Treasury Board employee fights for marital leave
A story published today by the Ottawa Sun reports that while the Canadian
federal justice department deliberates same-sex marriage, one woman has
taken her complaint of injustice to the Human Rights Commission.
Treasury Board employee Loree-Ann Huard asked for a marriage leave from her
employer for a commitment ceremony with her domestic partner.
The board's policy states: "A legal marriage must take place in order for an
employee to be eligible for marriage leave."
But Huard's request was denied. Huard then filed a complaint of
discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation with the Human Rights
Commission.
"The case has merit," said Catherine Barratt, a spokeswoman with HRC, who
would only comment in general terms and not specifically about the case.
"If they (the panel) find discrimination has occurred, then the individual
can have their rights restored," she said.
