Hello, I am writing for a free consultation as I need advice on what to do regarding a matter with my employer. Recently, I have had my usual amount of shifts greatly reduced to almost what they call a "soft firing". As a part time employee of 10 years, I have been getting 3 to 6 shifts a week this entire time. Recently, my hours have been cut back to 2 shifts every 15 days, sometimes going 7 to 10 day stretches without any work. When I asked my manager about it, they responded with "well you are part time, so you aren't actually guaranteed any hours."

I don't know what to do, because I have been with the company for 10 years and made a good living off of it, but now I am being squeezed out of shifts, and now have bills/rent to pay that I have been accustomed to while making this living. I have not technically been fired, but it feels like I have. I know they have hired a couple freelancers recently, and they seem to get all the shifts that I once did, so it feels like I have been replaced by a cheaper option.

I just wanted a consultation as to what my options could be in terms of applying for EI or some kind of benefits while I look for other work, as it seems like this current place is trying to squeeze me out for no other reason than that I cost too much after 10 years of steady part time employment.

Thank you.
-Colin