Is this a layoff or a termination?
You should read:
- https://hrinsider.ca/make-sure-layoffs-dont-violate-group-termination-rule/
- https://hrinsider.ca/termination-notice-duties-of-employees-know-the-laws-of-your-province/
- https://hrinsider.ca/temporary-layoffs-terminations-your-liability-risks/
Depending on the amount you are laying off, the financials for the business, and other factors (age, demographics, etc), offering the minimum ESA is usually a recipe for future litigation, which will inevitably cost more.
Layoffs and restructuring is a hard decision, and sometimes very necessary, but if you can be generous and direct, it goes a long way in mitigating future liabilities to both the brand and the bottom line.