By Jeffrey R. Smith
Aug 11, 2025
A British Columbia court found that Professional Components Ltd. constructively dismissed a senior bookkeeper after her work environment became intolerable following the owner’s criticism of her performance, including the reassignment of her desk to a new financial controller and ostracism by colleagues. The court rejected the employer’s claim of after-acquired cause, noting the worker had fulfilled her obligations regarding a pay raise, and awarded three months’ salary in lieu of notice, minus 14 days’ severance already paid, while dismissing claims against the owner personally. Labour lawyer Michael Penner emphasized that the case highlights the importance of addressing performance issues formally and giving timely notice when termination is contemplated to avoid claims of constructive dismissal.
Check out the full article here: https://www.hrreporter.com/chrr-plus/employment-law/constructive-dismissal-bc-worker-ostracized-demoted-after-asking-for-raise/393147
