The Ontario Labour Relations Board ruled the couriers more closely resemble employees rather than independent contractors in what it said was its first decision with respect to the so-called gig economy.

A hearing related to a union drive at food delivery company Foodora is underway in Toronto and is expected to have significant implications for workers and companies in the gig economy.

A union certification vote is underway for Foodora couriers, and an employment lawyer calls this a watershed moment for the Canadian gig economy.