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Labour Relations Seminar
Labour Relations Seminar
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Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs 2020 Labour Relations Seminar
 
January 29 & 30, 2020, Marriott Downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre
 
 

Please find information on our 2019 event below - 2020 information coming soon!

The labour relations seminar (LRS) is an annual event held in partnership with Hicks Morley - the largest firm in Canada focusing on the representation of management in human resources law and advocacy.  Over the course of two days, chief fire officers, senior municipal officials and human resource professionals experience presentations from a team of Hicks Morley legal experts, Ontario chief fire officers, and renowned speakers who give insight, up-to-date knowledge and guidance on a wide range of labour relations issues that are currently impacting the fire service.
 
Throughout the seminar, attendees speak candidly with their colleagues and the Hicks Morley lawyers, providing immeasurable learning opportunities. The Labour Relations Seminar is the only event of its kind in Canada. Nowhere else will you receive this much detailed, relevant legal advice, for such a small fee.
 

2019 Pre-Seminar Workshops

Labour Relations 101 Workshop - Tuesday, January 22, 2019

THE LRS 101 WORKSHOP IS NOW FULL
 
Whether Labour Relations is new to you or you are looking for a refresh, this workshop is a great opportunity to learn the basics when engaging in employment law, collective agreements, bargaining, arbitration and the grievance process.  The workshop is led by John Saunders and a team of experts in employment law from Hicks Morley.  The cost to participate is in addition to the LRS registration fee.......read more about the LRS 101 Workshop
 

Labour Relations 201 Workshop -  Mock Arbitration - Tuesday, January 22, 2019

In this interactive workshop, two Hicks Morley labour lawyers, Allison MacIsaac and Thomas Agnew, “face off” in a mock arbitration hearing before arbitrator, Sheri Price.
 
Attendees are separated into two groups: “management” and “association”.  Participants learn about the arbitration process, and proceedings through the simulation and prep of a mock arbitration case.
 
The workshop focuses on grievance arbitration and examines both procedural and substantive issues, including the scope of arbitration, pre-arbitration, arbitration processes and handles a select issue in arbitration – discipline and discharge, contract interpretation, and human rights.  The cost to participate is in addition to the LRS registration fee....read more about the LRS 201 Workshop
 

The all-inclusive registration package has now expired.

The all-inclusive package is geared to those members wanting to take part in BOTH the Labour Relations Seminar and a Pre-Seminar Workshop, and who are planning to stay at the hotel for the duration of the event.
 
By utilizing this full-service option, the OAFC is able to offer a savings to you of $50 per person on the package, versus booking a-la-carte options. Best of all, you only have to register once; the OAFC staff team will make all the arrangements!   There are only 40 LRS 101 and 40 LRS 201 packages available.  This option expires on December 19, 2018 and is NON-REFUNDABLE.  Visit our registration options page for full details.
 
The all-inclusive package includes:
 
  • Three nights’ accommodation at the Labour Relations Hotel, the Hilton, Downtown Toronto (January 21/22/23, 2019)
  • Choice of either the LRS 101 Workshop OR the LRS 201 Workshop on Tuesday, January 22, 2019
  • Breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks on Tuesday, January 22, 2019
  • OAFC Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar on January 23 & 24, 20199
  • Hicks Morley Reception on January 23, 2019
  • Breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks on January 23 & 24, 2019
Additional information and pricing can be found on our registration options page
 
We look forward to welcoming you in Downtown Toronto!
 

Thank you our 2019 Supporters
Event Partner
Association Sponsor
 
Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 
OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
 
Thanks for Attending our OAFC Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar 2019 - 2020 information coming soon!
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Please find our 2019 Draft Agenda Below:

Monday January 21, 2019

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
3:30pm to 8:00pm Registration Main Floor Lobby

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
7:00am to 8:00pm Registration Main Floor Lobby

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

As at January 18, 2019
Time
Presentation/Event
 Speaker(s)
Location
6:30
Registration
Toronto  Foyer
7:00
Breakfast
Tom Thomson, Casson, Carmichael/Jackson
8:30
Keynote: New Directions in PTSD Prevention and Treatment in Public Safety Personnel
Margaret C. McKinnon, PhD, C Psych., Homewood Research
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
9:30
Bargaining Update
Julia Nanos and Stephanie Jeronimo, Hicks Morley
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
10:30
Coffee Break
Toronto Foyer
11:00
Keynote: The Burning Platform for Diversity and Inclusion
Michael Bach, Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
12:00
Lunch
Tom Thomson, Casson, Carmichael/Jackson
1:00
Legal Update - Top 10 Legal Challenges of the Year
Mark Mason and Paul Schwartzman, Hicks Morley
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
2:00
#Metoo Movement
Lauri Reesor, Hicks Morley and Karen Gordon, Gordon Strategy
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
3:00
Coffee Break
Toronto Foyer
3:30
High Stakes: Discussing Cannabis in the Workplace
Tom Wilson and Dr. Melissa Snider, DriverCheck;  
Maureen Quinlan, Hicks Morley
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
5:00
Reception at Hicks Morley TD Tower

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
6:30
Registration
Toronto Foyer
7:30
Breakfast
Tom Thomson, Casson, Carmichael/Jackson
8:30
Meet the Arbitrator
Stephanie Jeronimo and Paula Knopf
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
9:30
PTSD and Chronic Mental Stress
Mariana Kamenetsky
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
10:00 Accommodating Pregnant Firefighters Carolyn Kay Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
10:30
Coffee Break
Toronto Foyer
11:00
Urban Breakout
John Saunders and Jessica Toldo
Toronto Ballroom I/II/III
11:00
Suburban/Rural Breakout
Stephanie Jeronimo, Julia Nanos and Mariana Kamenetsky
Carmichael/Jackson
12:30
Lunch & Departures
Toronto Foyer
 
Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 
OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
Thanks for Attending our OAFC Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar 2019 

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Please find our 2019 Speakers and Presentations Overviews Below - 2020 information coming soon!

Keynote Presentation: New Directions in PTSD Prevention and Treatment in Public Safety Personnel 
Margaret C. McKinnon, PhD, C Psych.,
Homewood Research Institute
Homewood Research Chair in Mental Health and Trauma, Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University Psychologist, Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton.
 

This session will focus on two inter-related facets of post-traumatic stress disorder in public safety personnel. cognitive dysfunction and moral injury.  Specifically, it will address the cognitive dysfunction (e.g., in memory and attention) that commonly accompanies a diagnosis of PTSD and will discuss a novel treatment intervention that has shown success in addressing this dysfunction.  In addition, Margaret will provide an overview of moral injury in public safety personnel and will discuss its relevance to prevention and intervention efforts.

Dr. McKinnon received her PhD in Psychology from the University of Toronto and subsequently completed a post-doctoral fellowship at the Rotman Research Institute. She is a psychologist in the Mood Disorders Program and Clinical Neuropsychology Service at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Research, in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University. Her research focuses on the interplay between cognitive and emotional processes at the neural and behavioral level.
 
The majority of Dr. McKinnon’s work is conducted in special populations, including patients with PTSD and with mood disorders. She is particularly interested in how emotion and cognition relate to autobiographical memory and social cognition, two areas of function commonly affected by neurological illness or insult. She is also involved in the implementation of novel treatment interventions aimed at reducing cognitive symptoms of illness and improving functional outcomes among patients with neuropsychiatric illness. Dr. McKinnon’s research work has been funded by a number of agencies including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the National Institute of Mental Health, the Canadian Institute of Military and Veteran’s Health Research, National Alliance for Research in Schizophrenia and Affective Disorders, and Ontario Mental Health Foundation.
 
Bargaining Update
Presented by Julia Nanos and Stephanie Jeronimo, Hicks Morley (see bios under Hicks Morley Presenters)
 

Bargaining is all about strategy and information. In this session we will review the settlements and interest arbitration awards in the fire sector over the last year. Join us to learn more about the recent trends, potential risks and the information you need to know to be prepared for your upcoming round of bargaining.

Keynote Presentation: The Burning Platform for Diversity and Inclusion

Michael Bach, Founder and CEO, Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion have become buzz words that we hear almost daily. But what do they really mean? And why should you really care? Why do we really need a more inclusive fire service?

Michael Bach, CEO of the Canadian Centre for Diversity, will speak to the elusive business case for diversity and inclusion in fire service and why now it is more important than ever to succeed where we have previously failed.

Michael Bach is nationally and internationally recognized as a thought leader and subject matter expert in the fields of diversity, inclusion and employment equity, bringing a vast knowledge of leading practices in a live setting to his work. He has deep experience in strategy development, stakeholder engagement, training and development, research, solution development and execution, employee engagement, data analytics, measurement and diversity scorecards, targeted recruiting strategies, marketing and communications, Employee Resource Groups, Diversity Councils, and diversity related legislation (Employment Equity Act, AODA, etc.) among other skills and experiences related to field of diversity and inclusion.

Prior to taking on this role he was the National Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for KPMG in Canada, a role he created and held for the past 7 years.  Additionally, Michael completed a 2½ year secondment as the former Deputy Chief Diversity Officer for KPMG International.

At KPMG Michael was responsible for the overarching diversity strategy for the firm’s operations in Canada, including the development and implementation of all diversity related programs and initiatives.  During his tenure, KPMG received several prestigious diversity related awards – including being named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Diversity and one of Canada’s Best Employers for New Canadians.  KPMG is the only organization that has won both awards in all five years they have been awarded.

In addition, the firm has been named one of Canada’s Top Family Friendly Employers (2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2013) and the Top 40 Places Gen Y Wants to Work (2009).  Regionally, they have received the Best Workplaces for Diversity as part of the Alberta’s Best Workplaces Award (2010), the Recognizing Immigrant Success in Edmonton Award (2010), and the SFU Nancy McKinstry Leadership in Diversity Award (2010).

Over the course of his career, Michael has received repeated recognition for his work, including being named as one of the Women of Influence’s 2012 Canadian Diversity Champions.  In 2011 he was honoured as the Diversity Champion with the Catalyst Canada Honours Human Resources/Diversity Leader award.  He also received the Women of Influence’s 2011 Canadian Diversity Champions, the 2011 Inspire Award as LGBTQ Person of the Year and the 2011 Out on Bay Street Leaders to be Proud of LGBT Advocate Workplace Award.

 
Legal Update - Top 10 Legal Challenges of the Year
Presented by Mark Mason and Paul Schwartzman, Hicks Morley (see bios under Hicks Morley Presenters)
 

Learn about the latest legal developments and the issues that are facing municipalities and employers in general.  Understand how the most recent decisions are going to shape your workplace and help or hinder the way you do business.  This will be a fast paced review of the good, the bad and the ugly.

#metoo Movement
Presented by Lauri Reesor, Hicks Morley and Karen Gordon, Gordon Strategy
 

The #Metoo movement is about more than Hollywood producers behaving badly. Karen Gordon of Gordon Strategy and Lauri Reesor of Hicks Morley candidly discuss the #Metoo movement (and why you don’t have to be afraid of talking at work). Let’s talk about how you can take steps to change the workplace culture to be proactive in preventing allegations of sexual harassment, or workplace harassment more generally. Whether it’s a gender issue or issues of mental health, harassment complaints can arise in any workplace, at any time and particularly where employees work in close quarters. And when they do, a poorly executed response can lead to costly investigations and significant liability. We will review the need to challenge assumptions, manage the workplace culture, how to effectively plan and execute a response and finally, provide some practical tips and common pitfalls to avoid.

Lauri Reesor is a partner in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office and is also the chair of the firm’s Human Rights practice group.  Lauri advises a wide variety of both public and private sector employers with respect to labour relations and employment issues, with a particular focus on human rights litigation, class action litigation and labour arbitrations.  Lauri has also developed a strong education law practice representing school boards, including a concentration in special education law.
 
She works closely with her clients to provide strategic advice designed to meet the legislative and other challenges facing employers.
 
Lauri is a strong advocate, regularly appearing on behalf of employers, municipalities, school boards and other service providers at the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal and before labour arbitrators.  The breadth of Lauri’s practice also takes her to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Divisional Court and the Court of Appeal for Ontario.
 
Lauri is frequently called upon to speak at conferences and conduct training on issues relating to human rights and special education law, pay equity and other labour and employment issues.
 
Karen Gordon is a communications strategist with over two decades’ experience answering the bell for leading law firms and their corporate clients, employers of all stripes, emergency services organizations and sports leagues and clubs. She provides deep, strategically targeted expertise in practice areas encompassing corporate litigation, employment and labour relations, and crisis and incident management. Widely recognized for her communications knowledge, she appears regularly on radio and television as an expert commentator.
 
Since founding Gordon Strategy in 2002 (then Squeaky Wheel Communications), Karen has developed an extensive body of work punctuated by numerous high-stakes, high-profile, strategically complex engagements. She has advised clients on case-specific legal communications, corporate communications, media relations and crisis management. Prior to Gordon Strategy, Karen cut her teeth in communications working in politics, business and government.
 
Karen has a strong record of volunteer work. She is a longtime volunteer with the Greater Toronto Hockey League and a former member of the board of the Regent Park Community Health Centre. For three years she served as the Inaugural Chair of the Scarborough Hospital Community Advisory Council and chaired the Parent Council at Centennial Road Junior Public School in Scarborough.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

High Stakes:  Discussing Cannabis in the Workplace
Presented by Tom Wilson and Dr. Melissa Snider-Adler, DriverCheck and Maureen M. Quinlan, Hicks Morley
 
In a panel featuring Maureen Quinlan of Hicks Morley and Tom Wilson and Dr. Melissa Snider-Adler of DriverCheck, presenters will explain the science behind cannabis use with the goal of dispelling myths, addressing stigmas and providing a scientific view on impairment. In addition to providing an update on the legislative framework, our panel of legal and medical experts will discuss issues such as:
 
  • how cannabis consumption affects the body
  • signs of impairment that are specific to cannabis
  • what are the safe limits for cannabis consumption
  • how can employers objectively assess cannabis impairment in the workplace
  • What are some common misconceptions encountered by the professionals that are helpful to dispel
Dr. Melissa Snider-Adler, M.D., C.C.F.P., M.R.O. (AAMRO), D,A.B.A.M., Chief Medical Review Officer, DriverCheck Inc.
 
Dr. Snider-Adler is the Chief Medical Review Officer for DriverCheck and is a Board-Certified Addiction Medicine Physician. Dr. Snider-Adler is an Assistant Professor at Queen's University Department of Family Medicine educating residents about addiction medicine. She was one of the authors of the 2011 Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program Standards and Clinical Guidelines and continues to work as a Peer Assessor for the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. She is often called upon to provide expert testimony, expert opinion papers and affidavits for labour arbitrations, court cases, and child and family services cases on a regular basis. With her MRO expertise and her background in Addiction Medicine, Dr. Snider-Adler works with companies across Canada to develop and update their Alcohol and Drug Testing Programs. Dr. Snider-Adler is an expert in the field and gives talks across Canada to companies, physicians and the community about workplace substance use and addiction prevention and treatment.
 
Tom Wilson has over 10 years of experience managing accounts for companies in safety sensitive industries including mining, oil & gas, forestry and utilities.  Tom joined the DriverCheck team in 2017 as an Account Manager and recently transitioned to his current role as Program Consultant. He is the primary point of contact for a number of key DriverCheck clients, managing the teams responsible for the day-to-day operations of their workplace medical testing programs, while reporting directly to owners and stakeholders. Tom facilitates presentations and webinars on a number of Fitness for Duty subjects including cannabis in the workplace and also conducts supervisor training classes. Tom earned a BBA in finance from the University of North Texas and currently resides in Southern Ontario with his wife and 3 children.  
 
Maureen Quinlan is an employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She advises employers on a wide range of labour and employment-related issues, including employment standards, employment contracts, wrongful dismissal, unjust dismissal, human rights, privacy and workplace safety and insurance in both the provincial and federal context.  Maureen appears as counsel in wrongful dismissal and commercial litigation disputes and human rights proceedings.
 
 
Meet the Arbitrator
Presented by Paula Knopf, Moderated by Stephanie Jeronimo
 
As an arbitrator and mediator, Paula Knopf has been active in labour relations and dispute resolution in the private and public sectors since 1980.
 
She is a Past President of the Ontario Labour Management Arbitrators Association. She is also active in the National Academy of Arbitrators, serving on its Board of Governors, as well as being a past Chair of the Committee on Professional Responsibility and Grievances and a member of the Research and Education Foundation.
 
In 1996 she was appointed by the Federal Minister of Labour to act as one of the three members of the Task Force recommending changes to Part One of the Canada Labour Code.
 
Since 2007, she has been the Director of the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s Arbitrator Development Program. She served as Chair of the Education and Colleges Relations Commissions from 1991 - 1997.  She has served as a part-time Vice-Chair of the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Grievance Settlement Board of Ontario.
 
She is named as a roster arbitrator in several collective agreements. She has been an adjunct professor at Osgoode Hall Law School, who has taught Labour Arbitration and supervised several Masters theses.  In addition, she served as Chair of the Ontario Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan.
 
PTSD and Chronic Mental Stress
Presented by Mariana Kamenetsky, Hicks Morley (see bio under Hicks Morley Presenters)
 

Presumptive legislation for first responders is associated with high claims costs and various return to work challenges. After a brief review of the policies we will discuss how they are being implemented in practice, how they interact and what steps employers can take.

Accommodating Pregnant Firefighters
Presented by Carolyn Kay, Hicks Morley (see bio under Hicks Morley Presenters)
 

Learn when the duty to accommodate is triggered and how the accommodation exercise can change throughout the firefighter’s pregnancy. Understand the respective rights and obligations of the firefighters, the employers, and the Associations. Recognize the factors to be taken into consideration and learn what accommodation might look like in individual fire services, emphasizing that one size does not fit all.

Your Hicks Morley Presenters

John Saunders is a senior labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office.  He has over 29 years of experience advising public and private sector employers on a wide range of labour and employment issues.  John’s practice includes collective agreement negotiations, rights and interest arbitrations, human rights applications, and wrongful dismissal litigation.

John also has a particular expertise in municipal law with regard to fire and paramedic issues.  He provides ongoing negotiation advice to fire and paramedic departments on staffing, deployment, benefit issues, accommodation, mandatory retirement and presumptive disability legislation.  He has also represented numerous municipalities in Coroner’s Inquests, Judicial Inquiries into fatalities and interest arbitrations.

John also works with employers in the healthcare, manufacturing, waste disposal, forestry, nuclear, property assessment and call centre sectors. He is the past Chairman of the Board of Elders of his local church.  He is an avid downhill skier and enjoys fixing things at his cottage.
 
Stephanie Jeronimo is a labour and employment lawyer at Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. Stephanie advises and represents both public and private sector employers on a wide range of labour and employment matters, including labour relations and collective bargaining, human rights matters, wrongful dismissal litigation, pay equity, employment standards and workplace safety and insurance issues.


Stephanie regularly works with municipal employers, and has developed a particular expertise in the emergency services and fire sectors. She advises municipalities, both in relation to fire fighter and paramedic matters and on general labour relations and accommodation issues. She has represented municipalities at the bargaining table, interest arbitrations and rights arbitrations. Stephanie has also negotiated reasonable settlements of wrongful dismissals on behalf of neighborhood improvement service providers, community legal clinics, municipalities and private companies.

Stephanie appears before labour arbitrators, the Superior Court of Justice, Small Claims Court, the Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. She is also a frequent speaker on human resources law.

Julia Nanos is a labour and employment lawyer at Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She advises public and private sector employers on a wide-range of labour and employment issues, with particular focus on human rights and accommodation, wrongful dismissal defence litigation, grievance and interest arbitrations, collective bargaining, employment contracts and employment standards.

As an advocate, Julia has appeared as counsel for employers before labour arbitrators, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Superior Court of Justice, and the Small Claims Court.
 
Julia has particular experience advising municipalities with respect to their fire department labour and employment matters. She has represented municipal fire departments at grievance and interest arbitrations, and in collective bargaining negotiations with both volunteer and career fire unions. She also regularly speaks at fire services-related conferences.

In her spare time, Julia sits on the Board of Directors of Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter – an emergency shelter for women and children fleeing violence in Toronto.
 
Mark Mason is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. His practice includes arbitration advocacy, employment litigation, human rights proceedings and the entire spectrum of collective bargaining, including interest arbitrations and strike management. Mark advises a variety of public and private sector employers and brings a practical and solution-focused approach to the legal services he provides.
 
Mark is recognized as one of Ontario’s leading counsel in the emergency services sector through his work with municipalities in managing their relationships with both firefighters and paramedics. He works extensively in this area and keeps his clients current on existing and emerging sector trends. Mark also chairs the firm’s Municipal industry practice group.
 
A portion of Mark’s practice also involves day-to-day human resources and workplace consulting. He works closely with various employer groups, speaks extensively at conferences and seminars and conducts client training workshops, all on a wide variety of issues facing management in both labour and employment law.  He provides employers with the knowledge and tools they need to anticipate and manage their workplace issues.
 
Paul Schwartzman is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office.  Paul provides advice and representation to both public and private sector employers on a wide range of human resources matters including: employment contracts, grievance arbitrations, interest arbitrations, labour disputes, collective bargaining, wrongful dismissals, constructive dismissals and human rights applications.
 
Paul is a graduate of the joint Master of Industrial Relations/Juris Doctor program through the Faculty of Law at Queen’s University.
 
Prior to law school, Paul graduated with distinction from McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree where he pursued a concentration in labour-management relations.
 
Jessica Toldo is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She provides advice to employers and management in both the private and public sectors on labour, employment and human rights issues. This includes labour disputes, grievance arbitrations and human rights and accommodation.
 
Jessica obtained her Juris Doctor from Queen’s University. While at Queen’s University, she was a student editor with the Canadian Labour and Employment Law Journal and volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada. She also successfully implemented an educational labour rights presentation for high schools in the Kingston area. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours with Distinction) in Labour Studies and Psychology from the University of Windsor.
 
Jessica both summered and articled at the firm before returning in 2017 as an associate.
 
Diana Holloway is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She provides advice to employers and management in both the private and public sectors on labour, employment, and human rights issues. This includes litigation, labour disputes, grievance arbitrations, collective bargaining, and human rights and accommodation.
 
Diana received her Juris Doctor from Queen’s University, and obtained a Diploma in International and European Law while on exchange to the University Jean Moulin, Lyon III in France. She is fluent in French and oral advocacy is her passion. In undergrad, she competed in numerous national and international debate tournaments, including the World Championships.
 
In law school, she represented Queen’s in the Jessup International Moot Court Competition twice – as an oralist (Canadian semi-finalist) and student coach (Canadian Champion).
 
Amanda Cohen is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She provides advice and representation to employers and management in both the private and public sector on a wide-range of labour, employment and human rights issues, including grievance arbitrations, collective bargaining, labour disputes, occupational health and safety, human rights and accommodation and employment standards.
 
Amanda received her Juris Doctor from Queen’s University. While studying at Queen’s, she competed in a number of provincial moots including the National Labour Arbitration Competition. She also worked at the Queen’s Legal Aid Clinic, assisting clients in managing employment and other contract disputes. Before attending law school, Amanda received a Bachelor of Science degree (Honours with Distinction) from the University of Guelph. Amanda summered and articled with the firm before returning as an associate in 2018.
 
Allison MacIsaac is a labour and employment lawyer at Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She provides advice and representation to both private and public sector employers and management on a wide range of labour and employment issues including human rights and accommodation, labour disputes, grievance arbitrations, wrongful dismissals, employment standards and employment contracts.

While in law school, Allison served as a senior caseworker with the Osgoode Business Clinic. Allison was an active member of the Osgoode Mooting Society and participated in multiple advocacy competitions, including the Arnup Cup and the Mathews, Dinsdale & Clark Labour Arbitration Moot, where she was a national finalist. Allison also received the Beard Winter Prize for the highest standing in Trial Advocacy, and the Goodmans LLP and the Charles Edward Woodrow Awards for academic excellence and extracurricular involvement.

Prior to law school, Allison graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from McGill University, where she directed a non-profit organization for special needs children.
 
Thomas Agnew is an employment and labour lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. He advises public and private sector employers on a wide range of human resources issues and regularly appears as counsel for employers in courts and tribunals throughout Ontario.
 
Thomas advises his clients in all areas related to human rights, employment standards, labour relations and workplace safety issues. He regularly serves as counsel for public and private sector clients in rights and interest arbitrations and frequently acts as lead negotiator in collective agreement negotiations.  In addition to arbitration and tribunal litigation, he appears as counsel for employers in court with a particular focus on wrongful dismissal defence litigation.
 
When not serving as an advocate for his clients, Thomas advises on workplace policies and frequently provides training seminars for clients on all areas of labour and employment law.
 
Mariana Kamenetsky is a lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto Office. Mariana’s practice is focused on workers’ compensation litigation and related matters involving human rights and labour arbitrations. She advises federally and provincially regulated employers.
 
Mariana regularly represents employer’s interests before the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board Appeals Services Division and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal. She advises employers on accommodations, internal policies and can provide training programs tailored to an employer’s specific business needs. Prior to joining Hicks Morley Mariana articled at a large full service firm and worked in house for a large Crown corporation.
 
Carolyn Kay is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office.  She advises public and private sector employers on the wide range of legal rights and responsibilities associated with their relationship with employees and unions.
 
Carolyn regularly appears as counsel on behalf of employers in a variety of forums including rights and interest arbitrations, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal and the Workplace Safety and Appeals Tribunal.  Carolyn provides ongoing advice to employers in their negotiations and development of and training with respect to employment-related policies designed to ensure statutory compliance.
 
Carolyn heads up the firm’s practice group for Pay Equity, an area in which she has developed a singular expertise. She also has the lead responsibility for the firm’s Workplace Investigation Training module which is offered both internally and externally to clients. Carolyn is also a member of the firm’s Executive Committee.
 
Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 
OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!

2019 Hotel Accommodations - 2020 Information Coming Soon!

 

Thank you for attending our Labour Relations 101 Workshop in 2019!

2020 Information Coming Soon!

___________________________________________________________________________________________
 

Please find our 2019 information regarding this workshop below:

Whether Labour Relations is new to you or you are looking for a refresh, this workshop is a great opportunity to learn the basics when dealing with employment law, collective agreements, bargaining, arbitration and the grievance process. 
 
Throughout the workshop the following topics will be covered:
 
  • Employment related statutes, including the FPPA
  • Employment law principles
  • Operating under a collective agreement
  • How to deal with grievances
  • Bargaining: what you need to know
  • How to prepare for arbitration
  • Interest arbitration: how it works
  • Rights arbitration: how it works
  • Management rights
  • Estoppel: what you need to know
​The workshop is led by John Saunders, Jessica Toldo, Diana Holloway and Amanda Cohen from Hicks Morley.  Hicks Morley is the largest firm in Canada focusing on the representation of management in human resources law and advocacy.
 



	2019 Draft Agenda



	

		
			

				
					Time
				
					Event
			

		
		
			

				
					

						7:00am

						
				
					

						Registration Opens

						
			

			

				
					

						8:00am

						
				
					

						Breakfast

						
			

			

				
					

						8:50am

						
				
					

						Introductions

						
			

			

				
					

						9:00am

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 101 Workshop

						
			

			

				
					

						10:30am

						
				
					

						Break

						
			

			

				
					

						10:45am

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 101 Workshop

						
			

			

				
					

						12:00pm

						
				
					

						Lunch

						
			

			

				
					

						1:00pm

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 101 Workshop

						
			

			

				
					

						3:00pm

						
				
					

						Coffee Break

						
			

			

				
					

						3:15pm

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 101 Workshop

						
			

			

				
					

						4:30pm (approx.)

						
				
					

						Workshop Ends

						
			

		
	





	

		 

	

		This interactive workshop is limited to 40 registrants and is only open to those who are non-union, municipal management staff. Attendees will leave the workshop with course materials and useful checklists.  

	

		 

	

		Your registration fee includes breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks.  

	

		 

	

		

			Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 

		

			OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!

		

			

	






Thank you for Attending our Labour Relations 201 Workshop: Mock Arbitration in 2019! 


2020 Information Coming Soon!


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Please find our 2019 information regarding this workshop below:


In this interactive workshop, two Hicks Morley labour lawyers, Allison MacIsaac and Thomas Agnew will “face off” in a mock arbitration hearing before arbitrator, Sheri Price.  



	

		Attendees are separated into two groups: “management” and “association”.  Participants will learn about the arbitration process and proceedings, through the simulation of a mock arbitration case.

	

		 

	

		The workshop focuses on grievance arbitration and will examine both procedural and substantive issues, including the scope of arbitration, pre-arbitration and arbitration processes and handle a select issue in arbitration – discipline and discharge, contract interpretation, and human rights.

	

		 

	

		The format is a combination of in-class discussion, break-out sessions, a mock arbitration and debrief.  The debriefing session includes an explanation of the arbitrator’s decision and reasoning, and the group will engage in an interactive discussion/question/answer session.

	

		 

	

		
Sheri Price is a mediator and arbitrator specializing in labour, employment and human rights disputes. Sheri holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Acadia University, a Bachelor of Laws degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Toronto.  Prior to launching her mediation and labour arbitration practice, Sheri spent more than twelve years practicing labour and employment law‎ and eight years as a full-time Vice-Chair of the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario.  Sheri is an arbitrator with the Grievance Settlement Board and the Ontario Police Arbitration Commission, and is an approved grievance arbitrator with both the Ontario and federal Ministries of Labour. Sheri is a member of the Ontario Labour-Management Arbitrators' Association, the Ontario Bar Association (Labour & Employment Law section) and the Law Society of Upper Canada.

	

	

		Who should attend:  Non-union chief fire officers, directors and managers of labour relations, directors and managers of human resources.

	

		 

	

		Learning Outcomes:

	

		By the end of the day, attendees will have a better understanding of the following:

	

		 

	
    
		
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			Prepare effectively for a hearing and develop the theory of a case
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				Assess your opponent’s case
    
		
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				Opening and closing statements
    
		
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				Examine and cross-examination
    
		
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				Establish the facts at the hearing
    
		
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				Evidence and object to evidence
    
		
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				How an arbitration is prepared and presented before an experienced arbitrator
    
		
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		2019 Draft Agenda

	

		
			

				
					Time
				
					Event
			

		
		
			

				
					

						8:00am

						
				
					

						Breakfast

						
			

			

				
					

						8:50am

						
				
					

						Introductions

						
			

			

				
					

						9:00am

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 201 - Mock Arbitration

						
			

			

				
					

						10:30am

						
				
					

						Break

						
			

			

				
					

						10:45am

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 201 - Mock Arbitration

						
			

			

				
					

						12:00pm

						
				
					

						Lunch

						
			

			

				
					

						1:00pm

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 201 - Mock Arbitration

						
			

			

				
					

						3:00pm

						
				
					

						Coffee Break

						
			

			

				
					

						3:15pm

						
				
					

						Labour Relations 201 - Mock Arbitration

						
			

			

				
					

						4:30pm (approx.)

						
				
					

						Workshop Ends

						
			

		
	

	

		

			

			This interactive workshop is limited to 40 registrants and is only open to those who are non-union, municipal management staff. Attendees will leave the workshop with course materials and useful checklists.  

		

			 

		

			Your registration fee includes breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks.  

		

			 

		

			

				Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 

			

				OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!

			

				

			

				 

		

	






OAFC Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar - 2019 Destination Overview 


2020 Information Coming Soon!



	Downtown Toronto



	

		Located in the heart of downtown at the corner of Richmond Street and University Avenue, the Hilton Hotel is easily accessible from the highway, walking distance from Union Station, the CN Tower, the Rogers Center and many of the thriving theaters. Just outside the hotel's front door is the vibrant Toronto Entertainment District, offering the best in dining, attractions and nightlife. The Hilton is also connected to the Toronto PATH system, making getting around easy. The 17 miles of connecting tunnel not only ensures easy access around the city but is home to the world’s largest underground shopping space, offering over 1,200 outlets.





	 


   



	We encourage you to mix business with pleasure. Just steps from the hotel are countless attractions, restaurants and bars perfect to enjoy with your colleagues after a day of meetings. The neighbouring attractions can be found in the following map: 

	



	(if the map doesn't load properly, press the F5 button or refresh your screen)



	

		





	 



	Travel to Downtown Toronto


The Hilton Toronto is conveniently close to the Gardiner Express Way and is just a few minutes from Union Station. We strongly encourage guests to take VIA Rail, the GO Train or the TTC for travel to the Labour Relations Seminar. It will save you a good deal of time and money. For more information on locations, scheduling and costs please visit the following links:




	 



	Driving Directions to the Hilton Toronto



	From the Southwest (Niagara / Hamilton)



	From ON-403 E, follow signs for Queen Elizabeth Way/ON-403. Continue on Queen Elizabeth Way, then merge onto Gardiner Expressway E. Take the York St Exit and go north on York (stay in right lane) then left onto Richmond St. Hotel is on the south side of Richmond St.



	 



	From the West (Windsor / London)



	From ON-401 E, continue onto ON-403 E. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Queen Elizabeth Way/ON-403. Continue onto Queen Elizabeth Way, then merge onto Gardiner Expressway E. Take the York St Exit and go north on York (stay in right lane) then left onto Richmond St. Hotel is on the south side of Richmond St.



	 



	From the East (Kingston)



	From the Autoroute 20 W, continue onto ON-401 W. Exit ON-404. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Don Valley Parkway S/Downtown. Continue and follow signs for Gardiner Expressway W. Merge onto Gardiner Expressway W. Take the York St Exit and go north on York (stay in right lane) then left onto Richmond St. Hotel is on the south side of Richmond St.



	 



	Parking at the Hilton Toronto



	Parking is available from the hotels front entrance on Richmond Street. Please note, the parking lot clearance is only 6ft 4in. Self-parking is available at the rate of $70.00 per night and valet is available for $45.00 per night (prices subject to change).



	 



	If you are driving a vehicle taller than 6ft 4in, the Sheraton Centre Hotel located one block east of the Hilton offers a parking garage with no height restriction at the rate of $50.00 per night.



	 



	Within close proximity of the Hilton Toronto, there are several pay-lots that offer parking options from the half hour to overnight. If you are interested in downtown Toronto parking lots within proximity of the hotel see the map below: 



	 


(if the map doesn't load properly, press the F5 button or refresh your screen)


 



	


 



	Additional Parking Options



	Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel Parking


    
	
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			Valet parking at a rate of $50.00 CAD (+ HST) per night and $56.50 CAD (+ HST) per night for oversized vehicles, subject to change, with unlimited in and out privileges.
    
	
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			Availability is limited to 200 spots and are distributed first come, first served with a maximum of 20 oversized vehicles.
    
	
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	Local Downtown Toronto Pay Parking Lots



	Within close proximity of the Hilton, Downtown Toronto Hotel, there are several pay-lots that offer parking options from the half hour - overnight. If you are interested in downtown Toronto parking lots within proximity of the Hilton hotel, visit Green P Parking’s website



	IMPARK Toronto:  Visit https://lots.impark.com




	 



	

		

			Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 

		

			OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!

		

			

	





	



	Contact Us



	

		

			 

		

			If you have any questions regarding the Labour Relations Seminar, Labour Relations 101 or 201 Workshops, we would be more than happy to help!  Our event team is available to assist you! 

		

			 

		

			Our contact number is 905-426-9865.  A staff directory is available below to assist your inquiry:

		

			 

		

			Questions about registration and general inquiries can be sent to Laura Aivaliotis, Registrar by email to laura.aivaliotis@oafc.on.ca or x230.

		

			 

		

			Questions about the venue, hotel accommodations, event logistics, agenda, and speakers can be directed to Kris Newton, Events & Trade Show Coordinator by email to kris.newton@oafc.on.ca or by calling 905-426-9865 x224

		

			 

		

			Questions about sponsorship and marketing opportunities at the Labour Relations Seminar, or other OAFC events, can be directed to Michelle O'Hara, Business Development & Operations Manager at extension 222, or by email to michelle.ohara@oafc.on.ca.

		

			 

		

			

				Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020 the official hashtag of the 

			

				OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!