Y.Z. v. Halifax Regional Municipality Decision on Remedy

The chair of an independent human rights board of inquiry into the matter of Y.Z. v. Halifax Regional Municipality issued her decision on remedy today, May 15.

Lynn Connors found discrimination had occurred and issued her decision on the matter in May 2018. The report found that Y.Z. was subjected to discriminatory treatment on the basis of race and colour by his employer, the Halifax Regional Municipality. A remedy hearing was then held in June 2018.

The complainant is identified only as Y.Z. due to a publication ban on his identity that is still in place. At the time of discrimination, Y.Z. was employed as a Metro Transit mechanic. In her decision on remedy, Ms. Connors describes the intention of awarding damages in cases where discrimination has taken place.

“Boards of inquiry may award damages for the harm and injury to a complainant’s dignity and self-respect and to recognize the humiliation suffered as a result of discrimination or harassment,” said Ms. Connors.

Her report highlights the effect discrimination has had on Y.Z. and those around him and a summary of damages to be awarded.

Damages awarded include:

• $105,650 in general damages to Y.Z.
• $33,015 to Y.Z.’s wife in general damages
• $21,675 to Y.Z. for the cost of future care
• $433,077 to Y.Z. for past and future lost income

A full copy of this decision can be found at https://humanrights.novascotia.ca/ .