Summary of Issue: Sickness Or Death

Decision 72198 Full Text of Decision 72198

Claimant was absent from the Country to visit a relative in Greece who was allegedly seriously sick. She was absent from Canada for a period exceeding seven days. The Commission conceded she was allowed a maximum of seven days for compassionate reasons since she was visiting her sick father and entitled. The claimant's mother argued strenuously the law is not fair. Seven days does not allow someone to travel to Greece, have a meaningful visit with the sick relative and return to Canada. She seeks relief from the strict application of the law. The Umpire explained that Parliament enacts the law and the officers are bound to apply it. The claimants appeal is dismissed.

Decision 53438 Full Text of Decision 53438

Claimant was outside the country from March 17 to April 2, 2001, to attend his brother's funeral. Benefits were allowed for the initial period of 7 consecutive days outside the country but not for the exceeding period. The Act is clear: the maximum amount of time a claimant can be out of the country is 7 consecutive days. Despite the sympathy aroused by this case, the Act must be respected and applied.

Decision 41200A Full Text of Decision 41200A

On May 4, 1997, the claimant went to the Philippines for two months to visit her sister who was seriously ill. According to the EIR, a claimant is not disentitled if she is outside Canada for a period of not more than seven consecutive days to visit a member of her immediate family who is seriously ill. Claimant disentitled for the whole period but the Commission conceded at the hearing that the disentitlement should have commenced a week later, i.e., from May 12, 1997.

Decision 20418 Full Text of Decision 20418

Was granted leave of absence to accompany husband to Toronto for a lung transplant operation. The program required her to be present at all times. She said it was not possible for her to be employed as she had to be with her chronically ill husband 24 hours a day.

Decision 19162 Full Text of Decision 19162

Claimant who was compelled to spend an extensive amount of time at the hospital working with the Rehabilitation Team to help her son improve his level of functioning following a car accident. I agree that ss.41(10), waiving requirements, is totally irrelevant here.

Decision 16046 Full Text of Decision 16046

Claimant left Toronto to go to London, Ontario, as a result of the death of his mother there and was away for 2 weeks. He conceded he was not seeking employment but had a job offer been made, he might have come back sooner.

Decision 11733 Full Text of Decision 11733

Husband hospitalized in Newmarket. Claimant left Toronto for a week to be with him. One hour's travelling time. Informed her employer and left telephone number in case of recall. Willing to return immediately.