The Queen v. Schachter (1992)

Download factum - Federal Court of Appeal:

Shalom Schachter applied for maternity benefits so he could stay at home and care for his child. He was denied because said they were only available for mothers. Schatcher claimed this was sex discrimination.

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled that. in order to recognize women's needs relating to childbirth, maternity benefits must be exclusively available to women, while additional childcare benefits should be extended to all biological parents - available to either mothers or fathers.

This was an important ruling for women as it recognized that both parents have a role to play in the care of a new baby.

Supporting documents
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Supreme Court of Canada Decision (1992)