Legal news and trends for Canadian in-house counsel and c-suite executives
Issue link: https://digital.canadianlawyermag.com/i/1410197
14 www.canadianlawyermag.com/inhouse COVER STORY THE 16TH ANNUAL InHouse General Counsel Roundtable examines the post-pandemic recovery phase, and the role of in-house counsel in guiding their businesses smoothly through this unique and complex period in history. Representing five diverse organizations from across Canada, our legal leader panelists came together virtually to discuss their biggest concerns as the COVID-19 vaccine is rolled out and employees slowly return to physical workspaces after many months of Navigating the post- pandemic recovery General counsel discuss critical issues facing businesses with Lucy Saddleton as the world prepares for life after COVID remote work. Critical issues this year for all our panelists include vaccine policies, hybrid working models, employee mental health, ESG and diversity and inclusion within organizations. Other issues are unique to specific industries. Supply chain and contractual issues are top of mind at NB Power, while privacy surrounding online school is a key concern at Toronto District School Board, for example. With regard to vaccine policies, most employers are reluctant to make the COVID vaccine mandatory, although it is strongly encouraged. Like the initial onset of masking polices, vaccine policies are likely to stir up strong opinions, and potential legal battles. "There are two pieces of litigation that we are involved in so far involving COVID related measures, and so I anticipate that may increase once the vaccination issue becomes more of a prominent matter," says Leola Pon, general counsel, executive officer, legal