This is summary of a docunment published by Human Rights Commission. For detail either contact us  or visit the HRC site at

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At work, you are entitled to ask for at least two religious leave days off and to be paid for them.  You are entitled to these days off without having to dip into your vacation. If you work in a unionized workplace where  Easter Monday is a day off for unionized employees, then your employer should grant at least three religious days off per year.  Here are some common questions and answers that we are asked on this subject.

Q:  Why do you say that employers should give two or three days off? Where does this come from?

A:   The Code prohibits unequal treatment. Right now in Ontario, the Employment Standards Act makes two Christian holidays (Christmas Day and Good Friday) statutory holidays. Similar treatment should be given to persons who are not Christian but whose religion prevents them from working on a holy day. 

Q: Why can't these two or three days come out of a personas vacation?

A: Because it would not be fair. Christians get Christmas Day off and Good Friday off and they do not have it taken out of their vacation days. 

Q: So what kinds of days off should be used for these two or three days?

A: It depends on the workplace and the terms of any collective agreements that may be in place. Some workplaces use compassionate leave days or floating days off. Others use discretionary days approved by a manager. 

Q: What if the employee wants more than two days or three days off?

A: Again, it depends on the workplace and the circumstances. Over and above the two (or three) days, some workplaces allow staff to use vacation time. Others grant paid leave on a discretionary basis. Others grant leave without pay.