Final answer:
Under Ontario's ESA, a pregnant employee qualifies for pregnancy leave after completing at least 13 weeks of employment with their employer. This protection ensures job security during their leave corresponding with international efforts to support the rights of female workers. Option a
Step-by-step explanation:
To qualify for pregnancy leave under the Employment Standards Act (ESA) in Ontario, a pregnant employee must have completed at least 13 weeks of employment with their employer before the expected date of delivery.
This means that the correct answer to the student's question is option (a) Completed at least 13 weeks of employment. This provision is a form of protection for pregnant employees to have job security during and after the period of their leave.
Pregnancy leave is a critical aspect of employment law, ensuring that pregnant employees can take necessary time off for childbirth and recovery without fear of losing their positions. In the context of international standards, it reflects the strides made in recognizing the rights of female workers.
Although it may differ in length and compensation from policies in countries like Norway, where pregnant employees can receive extensive paid leave, the Ontario ESA upholds the principle that pregnant employees deserve time off for family reasons such as childbirth. Option a