In Ontario, it is illegal to lay off a woman because she is pregnant. The Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Human Rights Act protect pregnant employees from discrimination. Employers have a duty to accommodate pregnant employees unless it would cause undue hardship.
However, it is important to note that an employer can still terminate a pregnant employee if the reason for termination is unrelated to the pregnancy4. For example, if there are legitimate performance issues or if the company is undergoing restructuring, the termination may be lawful.
If you or someone you know is facing such a situation, it might be helpful to consult with an employment lawyer to understand the specific circumstances and rights.