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As Human Resources Minister Diane Finley initially announced last May, new regulations will encourage unemployed workers to take available jobs fairly close to home, even if they pay a bit less than their previous work.

“The regulatory process is complete now, so it’s time to move forward and bring it into effect,” Finley said in an interview.

“They’re going to see a lot more in the way of support in helping them finding a new job. They’re going to receiving more job alerts, and they’re going to have access to supports in that regard. I think that’s a huge improvement than what’s in the past.”

Finley spelled out the details on Thursday.

As always, EI claimants need to be engaged in a “reasonable job search” to find “suitable employment,” but now, those terms have been defined more concisely.

It’s all going to be based on personal circumstances

Starting in January, a reasonable job search includes research job opportunities, preparing a resume, registering for job banks, attending job fairs, applying for jobs, and undergoing competency evaluations.

Eligibility will also be determined by whether a claimant is considered a long-tenured worker, a frequent claimant or occasional claimant.

“It’s all going to be based on personal circumstances,” Finley said.

“What was the individual’s previous work pattern? How long was their previous commute? What kind of hours did they work? Day shift or night shift? Will they be incurring additional expenses for a new job such as travel or child care?”