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  • The objectives of this paper are: 1. to determine whether layoffs disproportionately affect members of employment equity designated groups, and 2. to assess the importance of seniority in any adverse impacts. The hypothesis is that seniority is an important criterion for layoffs and that designated group members tend to have less seniority and would therefore be disproportionately affected by layoffs. If this is correct, then layoffs may constitute systemic discrimination since there is a reasonable alternative policy in the form of reduced hours through worksharing, which would affect all groups similarly. Tests confirmed that the probability of a layoff was higher for designated group members. The role of the seniority system in this relationship, however, was contrary to the hypothesis since the relationship between the probability of a layoff and designated group status was weaker at unionized workplaces than at nonuion workplaces. It is concluded that the case for worksharing is strengthened by its potential to reduce the systemic discrimination against designated groups which results from the use of layoffs.

  • This article investigates whether older workers affected by plant closures are more likely to be discouraged from participation in the labor force and to be bitter towards employers as well as whether they are less likely to report career growth in subsequent employment situations. The data indicated that older workers are less likely to report the career-growth effect. In addition, post-closure training activities reduced the likelihood of the discouraged-worker effect for the 45-55 age group. The respondents from the older age groups who undertook post-closure training activities were more likely to report the poisoning effect and less likely to report the career-growth effect. It is argued that the results relate to the definition of the age groups, the transferability of human capital, and the value of community support. The implication of the results for public and institutional policies are discussed.

Last update from database: 10/2/24, 4:10 AM (UTC)

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