Lawyer wants to include Alberta companies in COVID class-action suit

A lawyer is advocating for the inclusion of Alberta corporations negatively affected by COVID-19 restrictions in a class-action lawsuit seeking compensation for business losses caused by government mandates. Jeffrey Rath urged that these companies should not be excluded simply because larger corporations exist in the region. He emphasized the importance of representing a broad spectrum of businesses in the legal process.

Rath addressed concerns expressed by Justice Colin Feasby and Alberta Justice lawyer John-Marc Dube that major corporations might join the lawsuit, maintaining that such fears are unwarranted. Instead, he emphasized the significance of standing up for smaller mom-and-pop establishments that also suffered financial hardships due to pandemic-related regulations. Rath stressed the importance of ensuring that all sizes of businesses have a voice in court, regardless of their financial stature.

He underlined that while major corporations could individually pursue legal action due to their available resources, most businesses in Alberta are small, family-run enterprises. Therefore, it is crucial to include them as plaintiffs in the class-action lawsuit to ensure representation for this substantial group of companies. Rath pointed out that numerous smaller incorporated businesses face similar challenges and losses as their larger counterparts and should not be overlooked in the legal proceedings.

Addressing a question from Feasby regarding whether major corporations like the Royal Bank would be part of the class, Rath clarified that they would not. He reiterated his stand that highlighting the struggles of small corporations was essential to bring attention to their plight amidst the prevailing circumstances. Rath’s current representation involves a certified class of Alberta business owners impacted by government measures during the pandemic. He emphasized that many smaller incorporated businesses share common difficulties and should not be excluded from pursuing justice.

In conclusion, Rath’s push to include Alberta corporations of all sizes in the class-action lawsuit reflects the broader goal of ensuring that every affected business has a fair chance to seek compensation for losses incurred due to COVID-19 restrictions. By advocating for the representation of mom-and-pop establishments alongside major corporations in legal proceedings, he aims to uphold fairness and justice for all businesses impacted by the pandemic across various financial strata.