Morris v. Manufacturers Life Assurance Co.
Unionized Employee Disability Benefits: Arbitrability Under Collective Agreement
Summary
A merits decision involving a unionized employee seeking long-term disability benefits under a collective agreement. The court addressed whether the dispute falls within the exclusive jurisdiction of a labour arbitrator and whether claims of negligence, bad faith, and punitive damages require court adjudication or fall under arbitration. The plaintiff’s action was dismissed in favour of arbitration, with costs awarded to the defendants.
Outcome
plaintiff’s action dismissed in favour of arbitration
Award
Costs awarded to defendants: $5,000 for the City and $1,500 for Manulife
Key Factors
- long-term disability benefits
- collective agreement
- arbitrability
- labour relations act
- dismissal of action
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Ontario Severance is an educational tool. If you are facing a serious employment law matter, consult with a qualified employment lawyer in Ontario.