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Labour Relations Seminar
Labour Relations Seminar
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Thank you for attending the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
 
January 29 & 30, 2020, Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre
 

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 with 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.

2020 Pre-Seminar Workshops 

Labour Relations 101 Workshop

Whether Labour Relations is new to you or you're 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 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

In this interactive workshop, two Hicks Morley labour lawyers, “face off” in a mock arbitration hearing before an arbitrator.  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 is back by popular demand for the 2020 event! 

The all-inclusive package is geared to those members wanting to take part in the Labour Relations Seminar, a Pre-Seminar Workshop, and who are planning to stay at the hotel for the duration of the event.
 
The all-inclusive package includes:
 
  • Three nights’ accommodation at the new Labour Relations Hotel, Marriott Eaton Centre Toronto (January 27/28/29, 2020)
  • Choice of either the LRS 101 Workshop OR the LRS 201 Workshop on Tuesday, January 28, 2020;
  • Breakfast, lunch, and coffee breaks on Tuesday, January 28, 2020;
  • OAFC Hicks Morley Labour Relations Seminar on January 29 & 30, 2020;
  • Hicks Morley Reception on January 29, 2020; and
  • Breakfast, lunch, and coffee breaks on January 29 & 30, 2020. 
Additional information on the all-inclusive package can be found on our registration options page.
 
We look forward to welcoming you to Toronto!
 

Thank you to our 2020 Supporters
Event Partner
Association Sponsor
 
Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
 
 
 

Please find our 2020 Draft Agenda Below: Updated January 22, 2020

Monday January 27, 2020

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
3:30pm to 8:00pm Registration Base Foyer

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
7:00am to 8:00pm Registration Base Foyer
9:00am to 4:30pm
Labour Relations 101 - Workshop
Salon 4-5
9:00am to 4:30pm
Labour Relations 201 - Mock Arbitration Workshop
Salon 1-3

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Time
Presentation/Event
Speaker(s)
Location
6:30am
Registration
Base Foyer
7:00am
Breakfast
Trinity Ballroom
8:30am

Keynote: Follow Me I’m Right Behind You, Lead & Influence Others in Change 
Jody Urquhart, Comedian & Author of All Work & No Say
Grand Ballroom
9:30am
Remarks from the Minister of Labour
The Honourable Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour
Grand Ballroom
9:45am
Urban Breakout Session
Julia Nanos, Jessica Toldo and Grant Nuttall, Hicks Morley
Grand Ballroom
9:45am
Suburban/Rural Breakout Session
Stephanie Jeronimo, Mariana Kamenetsky, Amanda Cohen, Stephanie McLoughlin & Mark Mason, Hicks Morley
York AB
10:45am
Coffee Break 
11:00am
Staffing Issues
John Saunders, Hicks Morley
York AB
12:30pm
Lunch
Trinity Ballroom
1:30pm
Bargaining Update 
Stephanie Jeronimo & Julia Nanos, Hicks Morley
Grand Ballroom
3:00pm
The Fire Chiefs Survival Guide
Michael Kennedy, Hicks Morley & Deputy Chief Paul Hutt, Ottawa
Grand Ballroom
3:30pm
Coffee Break
3:45pm
Legal Update: Top 10 Legal Challenges of the Year
Mark Mason & Amanda Cohen, Hicks Morley
Grand Ballroom
5:00pm
Reception at Hicks Morley TD Tower

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Time Presentation/Event Speaker(s) Location
6:30am
Registration
Base Foyer
7:00am
Breakfast
Trinity Ballroom
8:00am
Fireside Chat: Ask the Arbitrator
Eli Gedalof Arbitrator & Julia Nanos, Hicks Morley
Grand Ballroom
8:30am
Remarks from Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addiction
Presented by The Honorable Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
Grand Ballroom
8:45am
Attendance Management
Michael Kennedy, Amanda Cohen, Hicks Morley and Erin Anderson, Senior Labour Relations Consultant, A/Chief Greg Hankkio, Thunder Bay
Grand Ballroom
9:45am
Pregnant Firefighters
Mark Mason, Hicks Morley
Grand Ballroom
10:30am
Coffee Break
10:45am
Keynote: Working Smarter Instead of Harder
Dr. Nick Bontis, Leading Strategy & Management Guru
Grand Ballroom
12:15pm
Social Media on Fire
Karen Gordon, Gordon Strategy
Grand Ballroom
1:00pm
Lunch & Departures
 

For more information on our speakers and to review their bios, please visit our Speakers & Presentation Overviews tab

Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
 
 
Speakers and Presentations Overviews 
 
Keynote: Follow Me I’m Right Behind You, Lead & Influence Others in Change 
Presented by: Jody Urquhart

A highly sought-after funny motivational speaker, Jody Urquhart is the author of All Work & No Say, a bestselling book that shattered assumptions that work can’t be rewarding and fun.

Her motivational talk features savvy, uplifting and hysterical advice to help you develop a buoyant, positive, and meaningful perspective amid stress and change.

Jody is passionate about spreading the message of the importance of fun and meaningful work. A motivational speaker for over 22 years, Jody speaks at over 90 organizations and associations every year and is a top keynote speaker.

Jody's trademark is to deliver hilarious motivational speeches.

Jody is the author of the best-selling book All Work & No SAY. Her mission is to help motivate people to derive more meaning, fun, and satisfaction from their work.
 

Jody Urquart Teaser Video

Keynote: Working Smarter Instead of Harder
Presented by: Dr. Nick Bontis, nickbontis.com

Dr. Nick Bontis is an internationally renowned speaker and management consultant, who has been hand-picked by the United Nations, the US Navy, Microsoft, IBM, Accenture, KPMG, Century 21, Health Canada and others to help navigate the new world of digital technology, industry disruption, and information bombardment. 
 
Nick has presented at some of the most prestigious global conferences and events in various industries both in the private and public sectors.  A dynamic keynote speaker, Nick is infamous for his academic rigour, real-life application, and humorous delivery.  Professor Bontis is a popular TV and radio personality, a leading academic researcher, and an award-winning, tenured professor of strategic management at McMaster University in Canada.
 
As one of the world’s most cited authors in the field of management, he has amassed over a dozen prestigious teaching and research awards. Maclean’s Magazine has identified him as one of McMaster University’s most popular business professors for six years in a row! He was recently recognized as a 3M national teaching fellow, commonly referred to as the “Nobel Prize” of teaching.  Dr. Bontis brings with him a unique set of skills as a speaker.  His content is validated through decades of rigorous research which has been published in top peer-reviewed journals.  Most importantly, his management recommendations have been adopted and implemented by top performing organizations world-wide. 
 

Dr. Nick Bontis Teaser Video

The Art of Effectively Using Social Media 
Presented by: Karen Gordon


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.
Paul Hutt

Deputy Chief – Urban and Special Operations
Ottawa Fire Services

Paul’s introduction to the fire service was in 1993 where he started as a volunteer firefighter in a community south of Ottawa.  As a result of great mentorship, Paul advanced to the position of captain within the newly amalgamated City of Ottawa in 2001.  Soon after, Paul assumed the role of Sector Chief within the Ottawa Fire Service and served in that capacity until 2011.  In 2011, Paul accepted the role as Director of Emergency Services / Fire Chief responsible for Fire Services, Emergency Management, and Bylaw Services with the Municipality of North Grenville. In 2016, Paul returned to Ottawa Fire Services as Deputy Chief of Urban Operations and Special Operations. Paul is a proud to be part of the progressive team in Ottawa. 

Paul received his Master Certification in Municipal Leadership with York University, Schulich School of Business. Paul also received the status of Certified Municipal Manager from the Ontario Municipal Management Institute with the status of Fire Service Executive, CMM III.

Greg Hankkio
Acting Fire Chief
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue

Greg has served with Thunder Bay Fire Rescue for 29 years. In 2007 he was promoted to the position of Deputy Fire Chief and presently serves as the Acting Chief. 

Prior to joining Thunder Bay Fire Rescue in 1991, Greg graduated from the Civil Engineering Program at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay.  In January 2008, Greg was appointed the Alternate Fire Coordinator for the Thunder Bay District by the Fire Marshal of Ontario and in 2009 Greg graduated from the Fire Service Administration Program at Dalhousie University with an Emergency Management specialization.  Greg is a Certified Municipal Manager III (CMM III), Fire Service Executive, Fire Service Professional and he is also certified to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1021 Fire Officer Level IV. 

Greg has completed numerous Incident Command and Incident Management System training courses and has served as a Command Officer at events such as the G8 summit in Huntsville Ontario and during the unprecedented forest fire evacuation of Northern Ontario Communities during the summer of 2011.   

Erin Anderson, CHRL
Senior Labour Relations Consultant
City of Thunder Bay
 
Erin Anderson is a Senior Labour Relations Consultant at the City of Thunder Bay and has been with the City since 2012.  As a Senior Labour Relations Consultant she is responsible for providing technical expertise and guidance with respect to labour relations in such areas as grievance handling, human rights, discipline and terminations, harassment investigations (and more) with a particular focus on complex issues and acts as the Chief Spokesperson on behalf of the City for multiple bargaining units.  Since 2014 Erin has held the Certified Human Resources Leader designation with the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) of Ontario. Prior to joining the team at the City of Thunder Bay, Erin spent four years working in human resources in the private sector for a regional airline based in Thunder Bay.

Your Hicks Morley Presenters

John Saunders, Partner
John Saunders is a senior labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office.  He has over three decades 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, presumptive disability legislation, negotiations and interest arbitrations.

He has also represented numerous municipalities in private sector corporations in Coroner’s Inquests and Judicial Inquiries into fatalities.  John also works with employers in the healthcare, manufacturing, waste disposal, forestry, nuclear, property assessment and call centre sectors.  John 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.

Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health

Industries
Energy & Utilities Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Manufacturing Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Transportation & Warehousing

Awards & Recognition
Best Lawyers in Canada (2005–2020)
Labour and Employment Law
Best Lawyers Global Business Edition (2018)
Labour and Employment Law
Who’s Who Legal (2017-2018)
Labour & Employment Law
Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory (2014-2019)
Labour Relations (Repeatedly Recommended)
Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (2014)

President’s Award
Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Association of Counsel to Employers – Member
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Law and Municipal Law sections)

Education
Queen’s University, LL.B.
University of Toronto, B.Sc. (Hons.)

Micheal Kennedy, Partner

Michael Kennedy is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. Michael is counsel to a wide variety of broader public sector employers, such as universities and municipalities, and large private sector employers.
Michael’s practice regularly takes him across the province. He is chair of the firm’s University practice group and is the former chair of the Municipal practice group.
Michael appears as counsel in labour and employment disputes involving the courts, arbitration, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, and the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario.  Michael also has extensive experience in providing strategic bargaining advice and has unique experience as counsel in over 60 interest disputes.

Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations
 
Industries
Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Hospitality & Gaming Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Universities

Awards & Recognition
Best Lawyers in Canada (2017- 2020)
Labour and Employment Law
Legal 500 Canada 2018
Labour and Employment Law
Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory (2015-2019)
Labour Relations (Repeatedly Recommended)
Best Lawyers Global Business Edition (2018)
Labour and Employment Law
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Association of Counsel to Employers – Member
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member
American Bar Association – Member
 
Education
University of Western Ontario, LL.B.
Queen’s University, B.A. (Hons.)
 
Mark Mason, Partner
 
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.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations
 
Industries
Healthcare Manufacturing Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Nursing Care Facilities Social Services
 
Awards & Recognition
Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory (2018-2019)
Labour Relations
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Association of Counsel to Employers – Member
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Civil Litigation and Labour & Employment Law Sections)
Whitby Minor Lacrosse Association – Vice-President of Rep Lacrosse (2014-2015), Director of Rep Lacrosse Primary Divisions (2015-2016)
 
Education
Osgoode Hall Law School, LL.B.

Queen’s University, B. Comms. (Hons.)

Stephanie Jeronimo, Partner

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, employment standards, workplace safety and insurance and pay equity issues.
 
Stephanie regularly works with municipal and hospital employers, and has developed a particular expertise in the healthcare, paramedic and fire sectors.  Stephanie provides strategic advice and representation with respect to collective bargaining and human rights issues to a range of broader public sector employers, including municipalities.  In addition, Stephanie regularly represents employers, including hospitals and municipalities, in both interest arbitrations and rights arbitrations. She also negotiates reasonable settlements of wrongful dismissals on behalf of hospitals, social service agencies, community legal clinics, municipalities and private companies.
 
Stephanie appears before labour arbitrators, the Superior Court of Justice, the 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, particularly with respect to collective bargaining and human rights issues.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations Litigation Pay Equity Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Colleges Education Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Nursing Care Facilities Retail & Wholesale Trade School Boards Social Services Transportation & Warehousing

Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Law Section)
The Advocates Society – Member
Young Women in Law – Member

Education
Osgoode Hall Law School, J.D.

York University, M.E.S., B.A. (Hons.)

Amanda Cohen, Associate

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.

Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Information, Data Security & Privacy Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health Pay Equity Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Construction Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade Social Services Transportation & Warehousing
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Section)
Canadian Bar Association – Member
 
Education
Queen’s University – J.D.
University of Guelph – B.Sc. (Hons.)
 
David Foster, Associate
 
David Foster is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s London office. He practices in all areas of labour and employment law, where he provides advice and representation to employers in the public and private sectors on a wide range of issues such as labour disputes, grievance arbitration, human rights and accommodation matters, and wrongful dismissal claims.
 
Building on his experience as a senior advisor with the federal government, David prides himself on being a strategic thinker who brings a results-oriented focus to his clients human resources needs. Using his practical knowledge of the statutory, regulatory and public policy-making process, David helps his clients to navigate the complex and often changing world of employment and labour standards.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health
 
Industries
Education Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Manufacturing Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Social Services
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Law Section)
Board of the Thames Valley Education Foundation – Member
 
Education
The University of Calgary, J.D.

University of Waterloo, B.Sc. (Hons.), Health Studies & Gerontology

Grant Nuttall, Associate

Grant Nuttall is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. He provides advice and representation to employers and management across the private and public sectors on a wide-range of labour, employment and human rights issues, including wrongful dismissal, grievance arbitrations, collective bargaining, labour disputes, occupational health and safety, human rights and accommodation, and employment standards.

Grant Nuttall graduated from the JD/Master of Industrial Relations program at Queen’s University. While in law school, Grant worked as a student caseworker at the Queen’s Business Law Clinic, where he helped organizations navigate employment and other corporate issues. Before attending Queen’s, he was awarded the Gold Medal from his Bachelor of Management and Organizational Studies (Honors Specialization – Human Resource Management) program at Western University. Grant summered and articled with the firm before returning as an associate in 2019.

Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Information, Data Security & Privacy Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health Pay Equity Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Colleges Construction Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade School Boards Social Services Transportation & Warehousing Universities

Memberships & Affiliations
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Section)
Canadian Bar Association – Member

Education
Queen’s University, J.D.
Queen’s University, M.I.R.
Western University, B.M.O.S.
 

Hossein Moghtaderi, Associate

Hossein Moghtaderi is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office.  He provides advice and representation to public and private sector employers on a wide range of labour and employment law issues, with a particular focus on occupational health and safety and workers’ compensation.
 
Hossein obtained his Juris Doctor from the University of Ottawa concurrently with a Masters in international affairs from the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs. During law school he co-founded the Iranian Law Students’ Association and was an executive member of the OUTLaws. Hossein holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto where he was awarded the Gordon Cressy Leadership Award for his contributions to the University community. Prior to joining Hicks Morley, Hossein served as special assistant, legal affairs to a Federal Cabinet Minister.  In addition to his native Persian, Hossein has a moderate command of French and Arabic.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Labour Relations Occupational Health Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Construction Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade Social Services Transportation & Warehousing
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Ontario Bar Association – Member at Large (Labour and Employment Law Section Executive), Member (Young Lawyers Section) and Vice-Chair (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Section)
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Iranian Canadian Legal Professionals – Member
 
Education
University of Ottawa, J.D.
Carleton University, M.A. (International Affairs)
University of Toronto, H.B.A. (Hons.)
Jacqueline Luksha, Associate

Jacqueline Luksha is a lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office, provides practical and strategic advice on a wide range of labour and employment issues. She also represents clients in human rights complaints, grievance arbitrations, wrongful dismissal claims, labour injunctions, employment standards complaints and employment contract disputes.
 
Jacqueline has appeared before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (including Small Claims and the Divisional Court), the Federal Court, the Federal Court of Appeal, administrative tribunals (including the Ontario Labour Relations Board, Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, Pay Equity Hearing Tribunal) and labour arbitration boards. She also reviews and revises clients’ internal policies, handbooks, and workplace contracts in a strategic capacity.
 
In addition to her advisory and advocacy practice, Jacqueline is a relationship-builder and problem-solver, advising clients on mitigating risks during restructuring and other significant workplace changes. She frequently conducts in-house training for clients on a variety of topics, such as workplace investigations, human rights accommodation, the impact of medical and recreational cannabis in the workplace, workplace harassment incidents, and is regularly invited to present on respectful workplace environments in the #Metoo era to cast, crew and staff working on television and movie productions.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade Social Services
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Administrative Law, Civil Litigation, Constitutional, Civil Liberties and Human Rights Law, Labour & Employment Law, and Public Sector Lawyers Sections)
Advocates’ Society – Member
 
Education
Queen’s University, J.D.
Queen’s University, Masters of Industrial Relations
Queen’s University, Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.)
 
Jessica Toldo, Associate
 
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.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Information, Data Security & Privacy Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health Pay Equity Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Colleges Construction Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade School Boards Social Services Transportation & Warehousing Universities
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment and Education Section)
Canadian Bar Association – Member
 
Education
Queen’s University, J.D.

University of Windsor, B.A. (Hons.)

Julia Nanos, Associate
 
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 labour disputes, grievance and interest arbitration, collective bargaining, human rights and accommodation, workplace investigations, wrongful dismissal litigation, employment contracts and employment standards.
 
As an advocate, Julia regularly appears on behalf of employers before labour arbitrators, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Superior Court of Justice, and the Federal Court.  A significant portion of Julia’s practice is focused on representing public sector employers, including municipalities, hospitals, long-term care homes, and school boards, among others.
 
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.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health
 
Industries
Colleges Construction Financial Services Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Membership Associations Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Retail & Wholesale Trade School Boards Social Services Transportation & Warehousing Universities
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter – Member, Board of Directors (2015-)
Canadian Bar Association – Member
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Constitutional, Civil Liberties and Human Rights Law, Education Law, and Labour & Employment Law Sections)
Advocates’ Society – Member
 
Education
University of Western Ontario, J.D.
York University, B.A. (Hons.)
Mariana Kamenetsky, Associate
 
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.
 
Practice Areas
Human Rights Labour Relations Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Construction Education Energy & Utilities Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Manufacturing Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Nursing Care Facilities Transportation & Warehousing
 
Memberships & Affiliations
Ontario Bar Association – Member (Labour & Employment Section)
 
Education
University of Toronto, J.D.
University of Toronto, B.Sc. (Hons.)
 
Stephanie McLoughlin, Associate
 
Stephanie McLoughlin is a labour and employment lawyer at 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, labour disputes, wrongful dismissal actions, human rights and accommodation, and employment standards.
 
Stephanie received her Juris Doctor from Queen’s University. While studying at Queen’s, she competed in the National Labour Arbitration Moot, placing first, and was awarded the Lenczner Slaght LLP Advocacy in Moots Award. She was also Co-President of the Queen’s Law Cancer Society and represented her class at Convocation as Valedictorian. Prior to law school, Stephanie received a Bachelor of Arts degree (cum laude, high honours) from Butler University. Stephanie summered and articled at the Firm before returning as an associate in 2019.
 
Practice Areas
Employment Law Human Rights Information, Data Security & Privacy Labour Relations Litigation Occupational Health Workplace Safety & Insurance
 
Industries
Arts & Sports Construction Education Energy & Utilities Financial Services Government Ministries & Agencies (Federal and Provincial) Healthcare Hospitality & Gaming Manufacturing Media & Communications Membership Associations Mining & Natural Resources Municipalities & Municipal Agencies Non-profit Organizations Nursing Care Facilities Professional & Technical Services Retail & Wholesale Trade Social Services Transportation & Warehousing
 
Education
Queen’s University, J.D.

Butler University, B.A. (Cum Laude, High Hons.)

Meet the Arbitrators


Eli Gedalof 
 
Eli Gedalof is a mediator and arbitrator specializing in labour and employment disputes, including rights-based grievances, collective bargaining, interest arbitration, wrongful dismissal, and health and safety and human rights complaints and investigations. 
 
Prior to commencing work as a neutral, he was a partner in a leading Canadian labour law firm. He was appointed as a vice-chair on the Ontario Labour Relations Board in 2013.  He is a graduate of McGill University and the University of Victoria Faculty of Law and served as clerk to the Chief Justice of the Ontario Court of Appeal.
 
Eli was also an adjunct professor with the University of Toronto’s Centre for Industrial Relations, where he taught a graduate course in Labour Arbitration. He is currently a contributing editor for the leading text Ontario Labour Relations Board Law and Practice.
Adam Beatty

Adam Beatty received his law degree from the University of Toronto in 2009. Mr. Beatty is currently a Vice-Chair at the Ontario Labour Relations Board and a private arbitrator.  He is also an editor of the leading arbitration text "Brown and Beatty".
 
Prior to becoming a neutral, Adam was an Associate with Cavalluzzo Shilton, McIntyre and Cornish and a Member of the Ontario and Canadian Bar Association. During his time in practice, he appeared before arbitrators and many tribunals, and at various levels of Courts.
 
Mr. Beatty has published multiple articles in the field of labour law. Mr. Beatty holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Victoria, a Master's degree from McGill University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Toronto, Faculty of Law.
 
When not engaged with labour law (in one form or another) he is honing his mediation skills at home trying to convince his three daughters aged 8, 7 and 7, to go to bed and brush their teeth at a reasonable time!

Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!

 
 

Hotel Accommodations 2020 

 

Marriott Eaton Centre, Toronto

525 Bay St, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2L2
 

Hotel Overview

Discover modern style and award-winning service at Marriott Eaton Centre Toronto. Located in downtown Toronto, the Marriott places you in the heart of the city, near shopping, dining, and entertainment. Make yourself at home in the spacious guest rooms and suites with plush bedding, comfortable seating areas, and deluxe amenities. Stay fit  in Toronto in the 24-hour fitness centre. Take a dip in the rooftop indoor pool. Also enjoy delicious dining on international cuisine at Trios Bistro. The Marriott is within an easy walk of the CN Tower, the Rogers Centre, the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, and shopping at CF Toronto Eaton Centre. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is less than three kilometres away. 
 

For more information on the Marriott oronto Eaton Centre, Toronto please visit: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/yyzec-marriott-downtown-at-cf-toronto-eaton-centre

2020 Accommodation Information 
 
The OAFC has negotiated the following special hotel rate for the 2020 Labour Relations Seminar. 
 
1 KING BED  - Rate per night:  $239.00
 
Make yourself at home in one of the 461 air-conditioned rooms featuring smart televisions. Cable programming provides entertainment and wired and wireless internet. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature designer toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, safes, and desks.
 
Check In:  3:00pm
Check Out: 12:00pm
 
      


Parking

On-site parking, fee: 9 CAD hourly, 36 CAD daily
Valet parking, fee: 50 CAD daily
Garage height clearance 2 meters 1 cm or 6 feet 7 inches 
 
Other parking and travel information can be found on our Destination Overview, Parking and Travel tab.
 

Reservations

You can book your reservation online through our online booking link, found at: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1568207982423&key=GRP&app=resvlink
 
Alternatively, you can contact the hotel at 416-597-9200 or 1 800-905-0667 and speak to reservations.  Ensure you reference "Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs" when booking through the phone.   
 
Please note that if you registered for the all-inclusive registration package, the OAFC will look after your hotel accommodations.  If you did not book the all-inclusive package, you are responsible for your own accommodations.
 

The special room rate will be held until Monday, January 6, 2020.  Rooms go very quickly at this hotel, so secure your room now.
 

Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020, the official hashtag of the 
OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!
 

 

Labour Relations 101 Workshop 

Please find our 2020 information regarding this workshop below:
 
Whether Labour Relations is new to you or you're 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; and
  • Estoppel: What you need to know
​The workshop is led by Hicks Morley.  Hicks Morley is the largest firm in Canada that focuses on the representation of management in human resources law and advocacy.
 
2020 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
 
The Labour Relations 101 Workshop registration fee is $340, plus HST.  If you are planning on attending the Labour Relations Seminar, AND are planning on booking hotel accommodations, our all-inclusive package will save you over $40 versus booking these options a-la-carte, and is available on our registration options page.
 
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!
 

Labour Relations 201 Workshop: Mock Arbitration

Please find our 2020 information regarding this workshop below:

In this interactive workshop, two Hicks Morley labour lawyers,  will “face off” in a mock arbitration hearing before an arbitrator.
 
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 as well as discussing 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 and question and answer session.
 
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the day, attendees will have a better understanding of:
 
  • Proper preparation for a hearing and the development theory of a case;
  • Assessing your opponent’s case;
  • Opening and closing statements;
  • Examine and cross-examinations;
  • Establishing the facts at the hearing;
  • Evidence and objections to evidence; and
  • How an arbitration is prepared and presented before an experienced arbitrator.

2020 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
 
The Labour Relations 201 Workshop registration fee is $340, plus HST.  If you are planning on attending the Labour Relations Seminar, AND are planning on booking hotel accommodations, our all-inclusive package will save you over $40 versus booking these options a-la-carte, and is available on our registration options page.
 
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!
 
 

LRS 2020 - Destination Overview, Travel and Parking 

Downtown Toronto

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Marriott 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 Eaton Centre and close to Toronto’s Entertainment District, offering the best in dining, attractions, and nightlife.
 

   

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 Toronto Eaton Center Marriott is conveniently close to the Gardiner Expressway and is just a few minutes from Union Station. We strongly encourage guests to take VIA Rail, GO Trains, or the TTC for travel to the Labour Relations Seminar. It will save you time and money. For more information on locations, scheduling, and costs please visit the following links:
 

Driving Directions to the Marriott Eaton Centre Toronto

From the Southwest (Niagara/Hamilton)
Take Highway 403 East to the QEW-Queen Elizabeth Way East to Gardiner Expressway and exit at York/Bay Streets. Follow Bay Street north and the hotel will be on the right, just north of Queen Street. 
 
From the West (Windsor/London)
From ON-401 East, continue onto the ON-403 East. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Queen Elizabeth Way/ON-403. Continue onto Queen Elizabeth Way, then merge onto Gardiner Expressway East. Exit at York/Bay Streets. Follow Bay Street north and the hotel will be on the right, just north of Queen Street.
 
From the East (Kingston)
From the Autoroute 20 West, continue onto ON-401 West. Exit ON-404. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Don Valley Parkway S/Downtown. Continue and follow signs for Gardiner Expressway West. Merge onto Gardiner Expressway W. Exit at York/Bay Streets. Follow Bay Street north and the hotel will be on the right, just north of Queen Street. 
 

Parking at the Marriott Eaton Centre Toronto

Parking is available on-site

Additional Parking Options

Local Downtown Toronto Pay Parking Lots

Within close proximity of the Marriott Eaton Centre Toronto there are several pay-lots that offer parking options from the half hour through to overnight. If you're interested in downtown Toronto parking lots within proximity of the hotel please visit: 

IMPARK Toronto:  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 or the 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 at laura.aivaliotis@oafc.on.ca or by phone at 905-426-9865 x230.
 

Questions about the venue, hotel accommodations, event logistics, agenda, speakers, sponsorship, or marketing opportunities at the Labour Relations Seminar, or at other OAFC events, can be directed to Kris Newton, Events & Trade Show Manager by email at kris.newton@oafc.on.ca or by calling 905-426-9865 x224

 
Don't forget to tweet #LRS2020 the official hashtag of the 
OAFC Hicks Morley 2020 Labour Relations Seminar!