News & Events

Koskie Minsky is proud to have once again been ranked in the 2025 edition of Chambers Canada. Koskie Minsky earned 2 Band 1 rankings, Chambers’ highest distinction. In addition to Koskie Minsky’s practice band rankings, 12 lawyers were recognized as leaders across 4 practice areas. Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Employment & Labour: Labour for

We are pleased to announce that 22 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 19th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 19th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey Armel – Construction

We are pleased to announce that 8 KM lawyers have been included in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada. Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada recognizes associates and other lawyers who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in Canada. Kamal Bakhazi – Labour and

On May 27, 2024, lawyers from each department of Koskie Minsky attended a Reunion to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Advocates for Injured Workers Legal Clinic. The Reunion brought together those who had volunteered at the AIW while studying at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. The Reunion raised more than $40, 000

We are delighted to announce that our colleague Bennett Morrison has written a paper which will be published in the University of Toronto Faculty of Law Review. In his paper, titled “Extending Freedom of Association to Non-Union Workers: How Ontario Can Learn from France,” Bennett argues that Ontario should learn from France and grant non-union

Michael Mazzuca was quoted in a Daily Commercial News article on Ontario’s new framework for Target Benefit Multi-Employer Pension Plans: To view the article, please click here.

We are pleased to announce that Koskie Minsky has been shortlisted for two Benchmark Litigation Canada Awards: Plaintiff Firm of the Year, Koskie Minsky LLP Plaintiff Litigator of the Year, James Sayce Following months of peer review-based research and submission reviews, the Benchmark team has uncovered the most impactful cases, the lawyers and law firms

We are pleased to announce that five KM lawyers have been recognized in The 2024 Lawdragon 500 Global Plaintiff Lawyers list, for their work on Plaintiff Class Action Litigation: Kirk Baert Celeste Poltak Jonathan Ptak David Rosenfeld James Sayce This inaugural edition recognizes a remarkable, globe-spanning group of advocates who are forging a new day

Kirk Baert, a Partner in the Class Actions Department, offered commentary on access to justice issues in the Law360 Canada article: Federal Court and Federal Court of Appeal float ideas for reforming their rules, seek bar’s input. 

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 19 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2024 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Demetrios Yiokaris and Niki Manwani recently succeeded setting aside a mareva order. This appears to be the only time that an Ontario Court has set aside a firm mareva on a contested basis. To read the decision, please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP acts as counsel to the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA), which is the regulator for new home builders and vendors in Ontario.  Demetrios Yiokaris and Niki Manwani recently succeeded before the Divisional Court in overturning the interpretation by the License Appeal Tribunal (LAT) of the “integrity and honesty” provisions in the New Home

We are pleased to announce that three of the Firm’s lawyers have been chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2024 Lexpert/ALM 500 Directory. The identification of leading practitioners and firms is based upon a comprehensive annual survey, ongoing since 1994. The selected lawyers have been recommended by their law firm leaders.

Koskie Minsky has once again been recognized by the Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s Best Law Firms for 2024 in the area of Labour & Employment Law. The award list is presented by The Globe and Mail and Statista Inc. Approximately 25,000 lawyers were actively invited to take part in the survey and the

On September 30, we will recognize Canada’s third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which honours the thousands of lost children and the survivors of residential schools, their families and their Indigenous communities. What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? This public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impact of

Koskie Minsky is proud to have once again been ranked in the 2024 edition of Chambers Canada. Koskie Minsky earned 2 Band 1 rankings, Chambers’ highest distinction. In addition to Koskie Minsky’s practice band rankings, 12 lawyers were recognized as leaders across 3 practice areas. Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Employment & Labour: Labour for

One of Koskie Minsky’s founding partners, Alan Minsky K.C., will be honoured this year with an award for his dedication and contribution to pension and benefits law during his career. Alan will be presented with the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans’ 2023 Canadian Lifetime Volunteer Award on Monday September 11, 2023, at the 56th

We are pleased to announce that 21 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 18th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 18th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey Armel – Construction

We are pleased to announce that 6 KM lawyers have been included in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada. Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada recognizes associates and other lawyers who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in Canada. Kamal Bakhazi – Labour and

Michael will be serving as an Instructor at the International Foundation’s Master of Trust Management Standards (MTMS) Program. The Master of Trust Management Standards (MTMS) is an educational program for trustees that builds upon the key knowledge areas in FTMS and ATMS, a next step that challenges trustees to take a leadership role in their

Padraigin Murphy has authored an article for the Canadian Tax Foundation on Pension Funds Facing Withholding Tax Issues in EU Countries. To read the article, please click here.

We are pleased to announce that Karine is serving on the executive of the Ontario Bar Association’s class action section for the 2023-2024 term.

Mark Zigler and George Dzuro will be speaking at the IF’s 56th Annual Employee Benefits Conference, September 10-13, 2023. The Conference will take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal in Montréal, Québec. Mark will take part in a panel discussion on Legal/Legislative Developments — Central Canada and George will participate in a panel

Koskie Minsky LLP is very proud to announce that Mireille Giroux has been appointed by the Government of Ontario to serve as a full-time Vice Chair of the Ontario Labour Relations Board. Mireille Giroux joins a distinguished group of other KM alumni who have held and continue to hold prominent roles at the Ontario Labour

Michael Mazzuca will present “Cross-Country Benefits Check-Up” as a part of the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plan’s program: Canadian Legal & Legislative Update, on May 17, 2023. The program will take place at the Westin Nashville in Nashville, Tennessee. To learn more about the IFEBP program, click here.

We are pleased to announce that Nancy Shapiro has been selected as one of Canadian HR Reporter’s 5-Star Employment Lawyers for 2023. She, and the other winners, are featured on the Canadian HR Reporter’s website here. Nancy Shapiro has over 20 years of experience and is recognized by Lexpert, Best Lawyers and Chambers Canada as

Koskie Minsky LLP acts as counsel to the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA), which is the regulator for new home builders and vendors in Ontario.  Demetrios Yiokaris and Katherine Ferreira recently succeeded in having the license of Albion Building Consultant Inc. revoked after a week long hearing. This decision recently received positive media attention from

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 18 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2023 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Kirk Baert was voted as one of the 2023 Leading Legal Practitioners across Canada based on an extensive peer survey process. The identification of leading practitioners and firms is based upon a comprehensive annual survey, ongoing since 1994. The selected lawyers have been recommended by their law firm leaders. They are acknowledged as leaders in

Busayo Farderin was quoted in the Canadian HR Reporter article, “Why HR should care about new violence and harassment treaty” To read the article, please click here. 

To review the news articles, please click on the links below: Thorneloe appeals denial of $9.8M claim against Laurentian – Sudbury.com Thorneloe shouldn’t be held responsible for mismanagement at LU, court hears – CTV News Laurentian has ‘path forward’ after 1st phase of restructuring, but can’t rest on laurels, court hears – Sudbury.com Laurentian created ‘manufactured crisis’

We are excited to announce that Nancy Shapiro has been selected by her peers as one of Post City Magazine’s Top Lawyers in the GTA. She, and the other winners, are featured in the November issue of Post City Magazines. Nancy Shapiro has over 20 years of experience and is recognized by Lexpert, Best Lawyers and

The right of workers to collectively bargain, which includes the right to strike, is the bedrock upon which Ontario’s labour relations regime has been built since the end of the Second World War. The gains unionized workers have made through the collective bargaining process over the decades has improved the working lives of unionized and

Demetrios Yiokaris, a Partner in the Litigation Department, successfully defended a real estate lawyer in a fraud and conspiracy matter.  The Ontario Court of Appeal recently dismissed an appeal of a June 2021 decision that found a real estate transaction, which concluded unfavourably for the appellant, was not due to fraud or conspiracy on the

We are pleased to announce that once again Koskie Minsky has been recognized as a top-ranked (Band 1) law firm by Chambers Canada in the areas of: Employment & Labour: Labour for Unions Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Pensions & Benefits Congratulations to all of our ranked lawyers!

Arleen Huggins will be speaking at the HRPA 2022 Annual HR Law Conference on October 26, 2022. Arleen will be participating in a panel discussion focused on “A Retrospective of 30 Years in HR Law”. For more information about the conference, please click here.

Scarlett Forest, a current Articling student, has been announced as the 2022 winner of the Canadian Bar Association’s “In the Public Interest” Student Essay Contest. The award is presented annually for the best scholarly paper received about the contribution of public sector lawyers or an important development in the law affecting public sector lawyers in

We are pleased to announce that Nancy Shapiro was recently recognized by Best Lawyers™ as the 2023 “Lawyer of the Year” for Labour and Employment Law. Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this accolade particularly significant. These lawyers are selected

We are pleased to announce that 20 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 17th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 17th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey Armel – Construction

We are pleased to announce that 7 KM lawyers have been included in the 2023 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada. Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada recognizes associates and other lawyers who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in Canada. Kamal Bakhazi – Labour and Employment

We are pleased to announce that our client, the Yellow Pages Pensioners’ Group (“YPPG”), has reached an agreement with Yellow Pages as part of Yellow Pages’ recent “share buy-back” transaction. The agreement will see a total payment of $30M paid to the pension plan in 2022 to improve the funded status of the pension plan.

Sara Tatelman has authored a column for Benefits Canada: Expert panel: How employers can design health benefits, retirement plans for gig workers. To read the column, please click here.

We are very pleased to announce that Kirk Baert, a Class Actions Partner at Koskie Minsky, received the title of Fellow by the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL), during a ceremony in Los Angeles, California, on March 19, 2022. The IATL limits Fellowship to 500 active trial lawyers and seeks out Fellows who have

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 16 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2022 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Arleen Huggins will be speaking at The Osgoode Advanced Certificate in Workplace Investigations Program on March 21, 2022.  Arleen’s session will focus on “Investigating Allegations of Racism, Systemic Racism Prejudice and Bias in the Workplace”.  For more information about the program, please click here

James Harnum, a Partner in the Pensions and Benefits Department, provided pro bono legal representation to migrant farm workers in their battle to recoup thousands in termination pay, unpaid wages and other amounts owing to them by Pharmhouse Inc., a bankrupt cannabis production facility. To read the full article please click here.

Nancy Shapiro was a guest on The Great Canadian Leadership Podcast as part of their special series on navigating difficult conversations. Nancy specifically discussed giving feedback and how you can build your confidence and strengthen your team. Listen here!

We are pleased to announce that KM has distributed a $5.7 million settlement that was achieved in litigation and labour board proceedings to all former unionized and certain salaried employees of Quality Meat Packers Ltd (“QMP”) and Toronto Abattoirs Ltd (“TAL”). This settlement will allow these employees who lost their jobs when QMP and TAL

We are pleased to announce that Nancy Shapiro has been selected as one of Canadian HR Reporter’s 5-Star Employment Lawyers for 2022. She, and the other winners, are featured on the Canadian HR Reporter’s website here. Nancy Shapiro has over 20 years of experience and is recognized by Lexpert, Best Lawyers and Chambers Canada as

After more than 40 years as a Partner of Koskie Minsky LLP, Alan Minsky will be stepping away from that position to assume the role of Counsel to the Firm, effective January 1, 2022. In his new role, Alan will serve as a valued advisor and mentor to other KM Associates and Partners and will

We are excited to announce that Nancy Shapiro has been selected by her peers as one of Post City Magazine’s Top Lawyers in the GTA. She, and the other winners, are featured in the November issue of Post City Magazines. Nancy Shapiro has over 20 years of experience and is recognized by Lexpert, Best Lawyers

Sara Tatelman, an Associate in our Pension and Benefits department who articled at the Firm in 2020, and Paniz Khosroshahy, a current Articling student, have been announced as the winners of the Canadian Bar Association’s Labour and Employment Law Section Student Essay Contest for 2020 and 2021, respectively. The award is presented annually for the

We are excited to announce that Arleen Huggins has been selected by the readers of Canadian Lawyer as one of the Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers for 2021 in the Human Rights, Advocacy and Criminal Law category. She, and the other winners, are featured in the September issue of the magazine. The Top 25 Most Influential

We are pleased to announce that 19 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 16th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 16th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey Armel – Construction

We are pleased to announce that four KM Lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2022 Best Lawyers Canada: Ones to Watch list. New this year is the inaugural “Ones to Watch” list, which recognizes lawyers who have practised law for three to eight years. Below is the complete list of KM

Mark Zigler was quoted in the Toronto Sun article, “Workers regard pension protection campaign promise as long overdue.” To read the article, please click here.

We are pleased to announce that Andrew Hatnay, a senior partner in the Firm’s Pension and Benefits practice, has been appointed to the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario’s (FSRA) Technical Advisory Committee for the Employment-Based Pension Pillar in Ontario. The Committee members will work together with the public to identify how to support the

On June 3, 2021, Mark Zigler appeared as a witness before the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology as it considers Bill C-253, an Act to Amend the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act. Mark’s testimony can be viewed here: https://parlvu.parl.gc.ca/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/20210603/-1/35612?Language=English&Stream=Video#info_

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 15 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2021 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

We are pleased to announce that Murray Gold has been awarded the 2021 OBA Pension Award for Excellence in Pension & Benefits Law. The OBA Award of Excellence in Pensions and Benefits Law recognizes exceptional contributions and achievements in Pension & Benefits Law by members of the OBA. Murray is a leading lawyer in the

In response to the concerns about racism and oppression raised by former Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) student trustees, HWDSB took action and initiated an independent, third-party Trustee Code of Conduct Review. We are pleased to announce that Arleen Huggins and Philip Graham have now completed this review. For more information, please click here.

Louis v. Poitras, 2021 ONCA 49, is the first Ontario Court of Appeal decision to consider the impact of delays caused by the pandemic on a motion to strike a jury notice. The decision calls on lower courts to adopt a creative and pragmatic approach to this unprecedented challenge to the civil justice system in

We are pleased to announce that a settlement has been reached on behalf of the United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 and 633, their members, and certain other salaried employees in respect of severance entitlements arising from the bankruptcies of Quality Meat Packers Limited (QMP) and Toronto Abattoirs Limited (TAL).  This settlement, reached on

Mireille Giroux and Katherine Ferreira will be teaching the Collective Bargaining Law Course at Osgoode Hall Law School, for the 2021 winter term.

On December 8, 2020, Arleen Huggins received the Law Society Medal. In presenting the award via a virtual ceremony, Teresa Donnelly, the Treasurer of the Law Society of Ontario, mentioned Arleen’s tireless efforts over the course of her career to benefit the profession as a whole. Through her work with the Canadian Bar Association, the

We are pleased to announce that, effective December 1, 2020, Lesa MacDonald has assumed the role of Counsel in the Pensions and Benefits Department of Koskie Minsky LLP. In her new role, Lesa will be taking on additional senior-level client relationship management responsibilities. She will continue her legal advisory work for clients of the Pension and

Arleen Huggins will be speaking at the 2020 WTS Toronto Area Chapter Virtual Conference on December 3, 2020. Arleen will be discussing Bias in the Workplace. The conference program includes: Positive stories about women making a difference in the transportation industry Gender impacts, planning and decision making The next big thing: identifying where women should

“Increased awareness of labour law could lead to more litigation regarding employment contracts for financial advisors”. Please click here to view the full article by Fiona Collie  

Philip Graham will be speaking at IFEBP’s Conference on October 16, 2020. Philip will be participating in a panel discussion on “COVID-19 and Return to Work: Legal Implications for Employers”. For more information about the conference, please click here.

The changes to the Construction Act that came into effect in 2018 and 2019 should be familiar to most in the industry by now. By way of reminder, Prompt Payment and Adjudication came into force on October 1, 2019. In essence, new payment timelines and obligations were instituted to address the chronic payment delays that plagued

We are pleased to announce that Arleen Huggins, one of our Litigation Partners, has been selected by the Law Society of Ontario as a recipient of a 2020 Law Society Medal. Arleen is being recognized by the Law Society as a leader in the legal profession who has been instrumental in advocating for inclusiveness for racialized

Philip Graham will be speaking at Lancaster House’s National Human Rights and Accommodation Conference on October 7, 2020.  Philip will be participating in a panel discussion on “Crunched by the Numbers: Artificial intelligence, algorithmic discrimination, and other emerging issues in workplace privacy law”. For more information about the conference, please click here.

We are pleased to announce that Philip is now a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/C). Philip provides comprehensive advice to individuals and corporations with respect to the application of Canadian privacy laws, principles and practices at the federal, provincial and territorial levels. Congratulations Philip!

We are pleased to announce that 15 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 15th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 15th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey Armel –

Nancy Shapiro chairs the OBA Labour & Employment Law Webinar: Litigating An Employment File – The Essential Course, on October 14, 2020.  Arleen Huggins will be speaking on “Providing the Initial Opinion”. For more information about the Program, please click here.

Nancy Shapiro will be speaking at the 2020 HR Law Conference: Constructive Dismissal, on October 29, 2020. The online conference will explore: Best Practices for Hiring Return to Work – How to Do It Right Direct/Indirect Discrimination Constructive Dismissal Termination Post Pandemic Speaker’s Corner For more information about the conference, please click here.

In response to the recent concerns about racism and oppression raised by former Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) student trustees, HWDSB took action and initiated an independent, third-party Trustee Code of Conduct Review. Upon consulting with Ministry of Education and Anti-Racism Directorate (ARD), HWDSB selected Arleen Huggins as the independent third-party who will lead this

We are pleased to announce that James Harnum and Daniel Resnick have been elected to serve on the following OBA Law Section executives: James Harnum: Pension and Benefits Law Daniel Resnick: Construction and Infrastructure Law

On April 28, 2020, the Minister of Education appointed Arleen Huggins to conduct an investigation of the Peel District School Board (PDSB) to examine the PDSB’s compliance with the Minister’s 27 binding Directions issued on March 13, 2020, aimed at dismantling structures within the PDSB that perpetuate racism, and in particular, anti-Black racism, and on reforming

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 14 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2020 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

On April 7 we posted an article discussing issues created in the construction industry as a result of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (the “Suspension Order”) issued on March 20th.  There has been a great deal of debate among construction lawyers and in the construction industry as to the exact impact of the

On March 17, 2020, the Government of Ontario declared a state of emergency as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Just the day before, the Ontario courts took the unprecedented step of suspending all non-urgent hearings and court-related matters until further notice. On March 20, 2020, the Lieutenant Governor in Council made an Order

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, few construction projects are immune to shortages of manpower and materials, or the threat of governmental stop work orders. Importantly, there are two legal concepts designed precisely for this type of unforeseeable, destabilizing event: the “force majeure” clause, and the doctrine of frustration. Force Majeure Clauses A “force

We are pleased to announce that Koskie Minsky and co-counsel have been named finalists in the Class Action Team of the Year category at the 2020 Canadian Law Awards presented by Lexpert.  The team was selected for its exceptional work and outstanding results, including a $900 million award to the plaintiffs, in connection with a

Please be advised that our physical offices will be closed indefinitely, due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.  However, the lawyers and staff of Koskie Minsky LLP are fully equipped to work remotely and are committed to providing excellent and timely services to our clients through virtual means during this challenging period.  We will also

James Sayce will be speaking at the Advocates’ Society “Motion Advocacy” Program on Tuesday March 3, 2020. The Program will take place at the Advocates’ Society Education Centre, 2700-250 Yonge Street in Toronto. Topics Include: What is effective advocacy in Motions Court? Strategies for bringing different types of motions Best practices for preparing motion materials

  Learn more below and subscribe to the NEW Privacy and Compliance Blog here!   Civil Litigation As privacy concerns and data protection increasingly become key concerns of corporations, employers/employees and individuals, Koskie Minsky LLP’s lawyers have experience to advise you on compliance matters involving the application of privacy and data protection legislation to you,

Tera Armel and Megan Wong of jack.org were warmly welcomed at Koskie Minsky’s offices on August 29, when they presented lawyers and staff with an inspirational session (Jack Talk) on the organization’s important work with young adults across Canada and the ways in which our support has helped to expand their programming. Jack.org is a grass roots organization working

As Labour Day approaches, it is important and timely to remember the many positive contributions of trade unions and their members. Like many of our other trade union clients, LIUNA Local 506 has a longstanding program of awarding scholarships and bursaries to the children of its members in order that they can continue their education.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 10 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 14th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 14th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Jeffrey

  It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Rochelle Koskie, the wife of Ray Koskie, one of the founders of Koskie Minsky LLP. Rochelle was instrumental in the tremendous success of Ray’s legal career and tireless in her efforts to promote our firm and support all of its members. Most recently,

Padraigin Murphy has joined the Board of Directors of the Industrial Accident Victims’ Group of Ontario (IAVGO). IAVGO is a specialty legal clinic established in 1975, that provides free services to injured workers in Ontario including legal advice, legal representation, public legal education, advocacy training, and community development.

Michael will be an Instructor at the International Foundation’s Master of Trust Management Standards (MTMS) Program. The MTMS Program will be offered at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel on July 26-27, 2019 and in San Francisco at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square on November 23-24, 2019. More information about the MTMS program can be

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2019 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Jonathan Ptak was interviewed on the W5 feature called “Locked Up” on March 9, 2018 about the Ontario Training Schools class action.  To view this video and to read the article, entitled ‘It felt like a prison for kids’: W5 investigates allegations of abuse at Ontario Training Schools please click here. For more information about the

Koskie Minsky LLP congratulates our colleague, Charles Gordon, Q.C., on his recent appointment as Queen’s Counsel in British Columbia. Charles is a senior Partner at Koskie Glavin Godon, Vancouver, practising in the areas of labour, human rights, and administrative law. To learn more about Charles please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP congratulates the Black Law Student’s Association of Canada on its 28th Annual National Conference and is pleased to once again be the 12th annual Julius Alexander Isaac Diversity Moot Premier Sponsor. We look forward to working with BLSA Canada this year and in the future.

Koskie Minsky LLP commenced a class proceeding on behalf of the representative plaintiff, David Weremy against the Province on Manitoba in respect to the Manitoba Development Centre (“MDC”). “The boys were eating out of the garbage can, out of the toilet bowls”.  To view this report published by CBC News Manitoba please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1402396227728/ For

David Rosenfeld was quoted in the December 19, 2018 CBC News article “People simply, at no point in time, at any point in the years past, should ever be living in these circumstances. Period,”.  To read the article, please click here.

Mireille Giroux was quoted in the November 5, 2018 Law Times news article stating: “I don’t know if, even with financial aid, I would be able to attend the Faculty of Law now. I find it extremely regrettable. It just goes against many of the inclusiveness and recruitment initiatives I know the faculty does […]” To

Koskie Minsky initiated a class proceeding against the Attorney General of Canada on behalf of all individuals whose applications to the Thalidomide Survivors Contribution Program were rejected. “A legal challenge against the Canadian government by alleged thalidomide survivors can proceed as a class action, the Federal Court of Appeal ruled on Thursday”.  To read the

We are pleased to announce that once again Koskie Minsky has been recognized as a top-ranked (Band 1) law firm by Chambers Canada in the areas of: Employment & Labour: Labour for Unions Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Pensions & Benefits Congratulations to all of our ranked lawyers!

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 9 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 13th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Additionally, Michael Mazzuca has been named the Best Lawyers’ 2019 Employee Benefits Law “Lawyer of the Year” for Toronto. Below is a complete list of KM

We are pleased to congratulate Celeste Poltak, a Partner in our Class Action Group, who has been named a winner of a 2018 Lexpert Zenith Award. This prestigious award recognizes Celeste’s Mid-Career Excellence in the Legal Profession; Practice Area of Class Actions. The awards will be presented at the Lexpert Zenith Awards Gala Event, scheduled

David Rosenfeld was quoted in the May 9, 2018 CBC News article “Federal court rulings could mean re-assessment of thousands of Qalipu Mi’kmaq applications.” To read the article, please click here. For more information about the class action and updates as they occur, please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to congratulate Andrea Bowker on her acceptance of the position of Solicitor at the Ontario Labour Relations Board.  Andrea has been a valued member of the Firm’s Labour Law group since 2012 and will bring 22 years of labour law experience, both in private practice and as in-house counsel, to

David Rosenfeld was quoted in the April 25, 2018 CBC News article “Canada signed private agreement with Qalipu Mi’kmaq days before contentious changes to application process.” To read the article, please click here. For more information about the class action and updates as they occur, please click here.  

We are delighted to announce that Arleen Huggins has been named the recipient of the 2018 Women’s Law Association of Ontario (WLAO) President’s Award for the outstanding work she has done throughout her career for the promotion and advancement of racialized women in the law.  Congratulations to Arleen on this distinguished and well-deserved honour! For

We are pleased to announce that Mark Zigler has been appointed as Co-Lead Commission Counsel for the Ontario Long-Term Care Homes Public Inquiry. The Inquiry was established on August 1, 2017, following the conviction of Elizabeth Wettlaufer on eight counts of first degree murder, four counts of attempted murder and two counts of aggravated assault,

Katherine Ferreira has joined the Advisory Committee for the Centre for Law in the Contemporary Workplace at Queen’s University. The CLCW leads, conducts and fosters interdisciplinary research on emerging issues for workplace law and is focused on the implications for law of social, economic, cultural, technological and demographic changes shaping the contemporary workplace in Canada

Koskie Minsky initiated a class proceeding against the Attorney General of Canada on behalf of all individuals whose applications to the Thalidomide Survivors Contribution Program were rejected on the basis of failing to provide the required proof of eligibility. To view the “Global News” interview, “Alleged Thalidomide victims see hope in Federal budget”, with David Rosenfeld and

David Rosenfeld was quoted in the March 13, 2018 Le Journal de Montréal article “Victoire d’une survivante de la thalidomide contre Ottawa.” To read the article, please click here. For information about the class action and updates as they occur, please click here. David Rosenfeld cité dans l’article du Journal de Montréal sur le recours

On November 22, 2017 Ontario passed the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017 (“Bill 148”) which contains significant amendments to labour and employment legislation in Ontario, including the Employment Standards Act, 2000, the Labour Relations Act, 1995, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The Minister of Labour, Kevin Flynn, first introduced the legislation on

Hassan Ahmad was quoted in the The Lawyer’s Daily article “U of T, lawyers urge Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation to fast-track licensing for experienced refugee drivers”. To read the article, please click here.

On December 5th, 2017, the National CBC Radio Program Ideas broadcast “Precarious Work – the End of the Company Job”, featuring the 9th Koskie Minsky University Lecture on Labour Law, which was delivered at Western University,  London Ontario on November 3, 2017 by Dr. David Weil, the incoming Dean of the Heller School for Social

On December 5th, 2017,  CBC Ideas will be broadcasting the 9th Koskie Minsky University Lecture on Labour Law. The lecture was delivered by Dr. David Weil, the incoming Dean of the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University in Boston. Dr. Weil is the author of The Fissured Workplace: Why Work Became

The 9th Koskie Minsky University Lecture on Labour Law was delivered on Friday November 3, 2017, by Dr. David Weil, the incoming Dean of the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University in Boston. Dr. Weil is the author of The Fissured Workplace: Why Work Became So Bad for So Many and

UPDATE: We are pleased to announce that the Hon. Kevin Flynn, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, will be attending the Conference Banquet as a Special Guest. For registration and further details, please click here. On November 3rd and 4th, 2017, the Faculty of Law at the University of Western Ontario, Koskie Minsky LLP and Fasken Martineau

Koskie Minsky is a proud Partner Sponsor of The Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF) Annual Persons Day Event. The event will take place on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at the Arcadian Court in Toronto, and features Margaret Atwood and guests from the legal, academic, labour, private and public sectors. For more information about the event,

Celeste Poltak has been appointed to the Expert Reference Group for the Law Commission of Ontario’s (LCO) new project, Class Actions: Objectives, Experience, and Reforms. The LCO’s class actions project is the first independent, evidence-based, and comprehensive review of class actions in Ontario since the enactment of the Class Proceedings Act in 1993. The project will provide

We are pleased to announce that once again Koskie Minsky has been recognized as a top-ranked (Band 1) law firm by Chambers Canada in the areas of: Employment & Labour: Labour for Unions Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Pensions & Benefits Congratulations to all of our ranked lawyers!

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 8 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 12th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the 12th Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Kirk M.

Andrew J. Hatnay, head of the Pensions and Benefits group at Koskie Minsky has been quoted in various articles regarding the Sears Canada CCAA proceeding. To review the articles, please click on the following links: The Wall Street Journal: Sears Canada Pensioners Want Plan Wound Up  The Globe and Mail: Amid outcry, Sears Canada sets

  UPDATE: United Nations Recognizes 160 Girls Project On June 9, 2017, in Geneva, Switzerland, 160 Girls was recognized in The United Nations’ inaugural best practices report for the elimination of discrimination against women, intended to provide a roadmap for future change initiatives. This is a terrific endorsement of the value the law can have

Overview The Parliament of Canada recently passed Bill C-4, which contains two important changes of which trade unions should take note. The legislation received Royal Assent on June 19, 2017, meaning it is now law. The first change concerns certification rules for unions seeking to represent employees under federal jurisdiction, where card-based certification is restored

On June 22, 2017, Sears Canada Inc. and several related parties were granted protection from their creditors under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (“CCAA”), pursuant to an Order of the Honourable Justice Hainey of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Koskie Minsky LLP has been appointed as Representative Counsel to represent the retirees of Sears

On Tuesday May 16, 2017, lawyers and staff from Koskie Minsky served dinner to local residents in need, as part of the Lawyers Feed the Hungry program, run by LSUC. Since 1998, Lawyers Feed the Hungry has been providing hot, healthy meals to Toronto residents in need.  Lawyers, staff, students, judges and other volunteers from

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 11 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2017 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Gail Black and Michelle Vinokoruv of Canadian Feed the Children (CFTC) were warmly welcomed at Koskie Minsky’s offices on Wednesday, April 5, when they presented lawyers and staff with a heartwarming and inspirational report on how the Firm’s recent donation to the agency’s First Nations Nutrition Program is helping to bring food security to school

On March 21, 2017, The Sidney Hillman Foundation announced that it has awarded the 7th annual Canadian Hillman Prize to the documentary “Migrant Dreams.” Min Sook Lee, the director, and co-producer uses this film to shed a light on the working conditions of workers who come to Ontario as part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker

We are pleased to announce that once again Koskie Minsky has been recognized by Chambers Global and Chambers Canada as a leading law firm in the areas of: Employment & Labour: Labour for Unions Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Plaintiff) Pensions & Benefits Congratulations to all of our ranked lawyers!

Koskie Minsky, with Sunchild Law in Saskatchewan, commenced a class action against the Attorney General of Canada on behalf of individuals affected by the “Sixties Scoop” in Saskatchewan. On February 14, 2017, Justice Belobaba released a summary judgment decision in the Ontario “Sixties Scoop” case finding Canada to be liable. Scott Robinson was interviewed about

Osgoode’s Black Law Students’ Association has announced that Arleen Huggins (Past President of CABL) has been awarded this year’s Honourable Lincoln Alexexander ’53 Award. Lincoln Alexander graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1953. He practiced law until 1968, when he entered the political sphere as the first black Member of Parliament. He successfully served

Each year, students from Toronto law firms organise a competitive holiday food and donation drive on behalf of Toronto’s legal community, with all proceeds going to the Daily Bread Food Bank to fight hunger in communities throughout Toronto. The Daily Bread Law Firm Challenge ran from November 28, through December 9, 2016 and raised a

Koskie Minsky is proud to announce that Arleen Huggins has been appointed as the nominee of the Canadian Bar Association for the Ontario Federal Judicial Advisory Committee (JAC) for Ontario – Greater Toronto Area. Each province has at least one judicial advisory committee, each of which is tasked with providing non-binding, merit-based recommendations to the

Koskie Minsky LLP congratulates the Black Law Student’s Association of Canada on its 26th Annual National Conference and is pleased to once again be the 10th annual Julius Alexander Isaac Diversity Moot Title Sponsor. We look forward to working with BLSA Canada this year and in the future.

Koskie Minsky LLP is a proud sponsor of Black History Month at Osgoode Hall Law School, presented by the Black Law Students’ Association of Osgoode.

Please review the schedule below for Koskie Minsky’s Holiday hours: December 23, 2016 Normal business hours December 26, 2016 Closed December 27, 2016 Closed December 28, 2016 Normal business hours December 29, 2016 Normal business hours December 30, 2016 Closed January 2, 2017 Closed All the best this Holiday Season from the KM team.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that Murray Gold, a senior partner in the firm’s Pension and Benefits practice, has been appointed to the Ontario Treasury Board’s newly-established Pension Asset Expert Panel, as announced by the Province on November 10, 2016.  The independent panel will provide advice and recommendations to the Government on the

Koskie Minsky has once again ranked among the top-rated Toronto Labour and Pension Law firms, according to the 2016 Lexpert®/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada. Practice groups included in this category are Labour Relations (Construction Sector), Employment Law, Labour Relations, Occupational Health & Safety, Pensions & Employee Benefits, and Workers’ Compensation.

Koskie Minsky LLP once again fielded a team at this year’s Workers’ Bowl, finishing as the second overall fundraiser and first among law firms. Our team – Koskie Minsky LLP, Bowlers and Solicitors – raised over $8,000 for the Education and Leadership Fund for Workers in Precarious Employment. This fund supports collaborative projects with the Workers’ Action

On August 15, 2016, Performance Sports Group Ltd. announced that it would delay filing its Annual Report, including its annual audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2016. The delay was a result of the decision of Performance Sports Group Ltd.’s Audit Committee to conduct an internal investigation in connection with the

On August 2, 2016, Arc Productions Inc. (“Arc”) was placed into interim receivership by order of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Deloitte Restructuring Inc. is the interim receiver.   On August 19, 2016, by Order of Justice Newbould, Koskie Minsky LLP was appointed as Representative Counsel to represent the former employees of Arc (the “Arc Employees”)

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2016 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Koskie Minsky LLP has been appointed by The Honourable Justice Conway as Representative Counsel to former employees of Danier Leather Inc. Please click here to view the Order and Endorsement. Justice Conway confirmed that the factors traditionally used for the appointment of representative counsel in CCAA proceedings also applied in this case. Koskie Minsky’s mandate

To review “A Call For Compromise: How to Avoid Legal Pitfalls of Pension Innovation” (Benefits Canada May 2016) please click here.

We are pleased to congratulate Arleen Huggins, a Partner in our Litigation Group, who has been named a winner of a 2016 Lexpert Zenith Award. This prestigious award recognizes Arleen’s contributions and achievements in achieving Diversity and Inclusion in society and the profession. The awards will be presented at the Lexpert Zenith Awards Gala Event,

Kirk Baert was quoted in various Advocate Daily.com articles. To review the articles, please click on the following links: Baert launches class action against Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. Crown’s move to open Nfld residential school lawsuit discussions positive Delays in Nfld residential schools case mean costs mounting Quebec court awards $15 billion to smokers Sino-Forest legal fees

Koskie Minsky LLP is investigating a potential class action against C.R. Bard Inc. and Bard Peripheral Vascular, Inc. on behalf of people who have been implanted with IVC filters and who suffered related injuries. An IVC (inferior vena cava) filter is a device that is designed to filter or “catch” blood clots (called “thrombi”) that

Koskie Minsky is proud to support Flip Your Wig for Justice.  Flip Your Wig for Justice is an annual campaign that raises awareness and funds for five Ontario non-profits that are working to improve access to justice. Jody Brown, our firm champion, is featured in the newly released Flip Your Wig for Justice Campaign magazine.   For more information

Koskie Minsky LLP is investigating a potential class action against Mercedes Canada Inc. and DaimlerChrysler AG on behalf of owners of Mercedes BlueTec vehicles. The investigation centres around Mercedes’s possible use of ‘cheat devices’ in its diesel cars. If you own or lease a Mercedes BlueTec vehicle and you think you might be affected, please

We are pleased to report that the Ontario Court of Appeal has allowed the appeal we filed in respect of the decision of the CCAA Judge refusing to allow access to the Settlement Agreement entered into between US Steel, US Steel Canada and the federal government in 2011. By way of background, US Steel in

ADRIC Talks – “The Art & Science of Pension Mediation” by Ari Kaplan , Q.Med, Koskie Minsky LLP

Koskie Minsky LLP will be issuing a Notice of Action against the Motherisk Drug Testing Laboratory (“Motherisk”) and The Hospital for Sick Children (“SickKids”) on account of hair-strand drug and alcohol testing conducted by Motherisk between 2005 and 2015. Between 2005 and 2015, Motherisk tested hair samples from more than approximately 16,000 individuals, often at

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that Murray Gold has been appointed as a member of the initial Board of Directors for the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan (ORPP) Administration Corporation. The ORPP Administration Corporation will be responsible for administering the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan, a plan designed to help Ontario workers retire with greater

Murray Gold was quoted in the Bottom Line article “Report ties climate change to fiduciary duty”. To review the article please click here.

Nancy Shapiro was quoted in the Globe and Mail article “Chopping employee pay or benefits cuts both ways”. To view the article, please click here.

The class action department of Koskie Minsky LLP today announced that it is investigating a potential class action on behalf of Valeant’s shareholders concerning alleged misrepresentations in Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.’s public disclosure. On October 21, 2015, the short seller Citron Research issued a report alleging that Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc. has failed to disclose

Murray Gold and Mark Zigler will be speaking at the 48th Annual Canadian Employee Benefits Conference in Las Vegas, November 22-25,2015. The Annual Conference is one of Canada’s largest pensions and employee benefits events, attracting over 1,500 multi-employer trustees, public plan representatives and administrators of both pensions and health and welfare funds. To view Mark Zigler’s paper

Murray Gold and Adrian Scotchmer have authored a paper for SHARE concerning ‘Climate Change and the Fiduciary Duties of Pension Fund Trustees in Canada'.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 11 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the tenth edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Additionally, Michael Mazzuca has been named the Best Lawyers’ 2016 Employee Benefits Law “Lawyer of the Year” for Toronto. Below is a complete

To review the Law Times article entitled “Ari Kaplan taking expertise to mediation realm”.

We are very pleased to report that on May 12, 2015, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) and the United States Bankruptcy Court released consistent decisions requiring the allocation of assets from the sale of Nortel’s businesses and intellectual property be based on a pro rata approach. The “lockbox” of funds from the patent and

Laurie Kent and Ernie Schirru have been appointed as adjunct professors at Osgoode Hall Law School and will be teaching the upper year JD Collective Bargaining Law Course for the 2015 winter semester

On January 15, 2015, Target Canada Co. and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates were granted protection from creditors under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (“CCAA”) pursuant to an Initial Order of Regional Senior Justice Morawetz of The Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Koskie Minsky LLP was appointed to represent all Employees in the CCAA

Laurie Kent will serve as the union side co-chair of the Ontario Labour Relations Board Advisory Committee.

Koskie Minsky LLP co-sponsored a day-long workshop on challenges and opportunities in organizing nonstandard work on December 2, 2014 at the Osgoode Professional Develop Centre in Toronto. Representatives from trade unions, government and civil society organizations will come together for a day-long workshop  examining current initiatives, practical innovations and policy options for organizing nonstandard work

To listen to the interview with James Sayce and Robert Seed, please click on the following link: http://www.cbc.ca/player/Radio/Local+Shows/Ontario/Metro+Morning/ID/2615298264/

Koskie Minsky LLP once again fielded a team at this year’s Workers’ Bowl. Our team – Koskie Minsky LLP, Bowlers and Solicitors – raised over $10,000 for the “Education and Leadership Fund for Workers in Precarious Employment”. This fund supports collaborative projects with the Workers’ Action Centre to provide workers’ rights education and one-on-one support

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce the creation of a new award in memory of The Honourable Justice Sydney L. Robins. The award is presented to any JD student on the basis of academic excellence, financial need and a demonstrated interest in Labour Law. Justice Robins was called to the Bar of Ontario in

Nancy Shapiro was quoted in the Toronto Star Article entitled “Private life can be cause for firing, experts say after Jian Ghomeshi dismissal”. To view the article, please click on the following link: http://www.thestar.com/business/2014/10/29/private_life_can_be_cause_for_firing_experts_say_after_jian_ghomeshi_dismissal.html

Koskie Minsky LLP has been appointed by The Honourable Herman J. Wilton-Siegel as Representative Counsel for non-USW active employees and retirees of USSC.

Congratulations to Arleen Huggins who has been appointed pro bono counsel to the Human Resources Committee of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Canada. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters and exclusion from healthcare. MSF offers assistance to people

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 11 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the ninth edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Below is a complete list of KM lawyers, by practice area, recognized in the Ninth edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada: Kirk

Arleen Huggins discussed the lack on diversity in Canada’s judges on CBC Metro morning. To listen to the interview, please click here.

Arleen Huggins was quoted in the Toronto Star article “Peter MacKay tries to explain lack of diversity on federal courts”. To view the article, please click on the following link: www.thestar.com/news/canada/2014/06/18/peter_mackay_tries_to_explain_lack_of_diversity_on_federal_courts.html  

The Law Society of Upper Canada has recognized Graham Williamson as a Certified Specialist (Labour Law). The Certified Specialist Program recognizes lawyers who have met established Standards of experience and knowledge requirements in the designated areas of law, and have maintained exemplary Standards of professional practice.  Graham is one of only 24 Ontario lawyers to

Murray Gold was quoted in the Legal Insights & Practice Trends section of National Magazine. To view the article entitled “Pension Meltdown” please click on the following link: http://www.nationalmagazine.ca/Articles/April-May-2014/Pension-meltdown.aspx.

Koskie Minsky LLP is proud to support Pro Bono Law Ontario’s (PBLO) Investing in Justice Campaign. Koskie Minsky’s commitment of $25,000 over five years allows PBLO to maintain programming that serves vulnerable Ontarians and provides meaningful pro bono opportunities.

Garth Myers was quoted in the Law Times discussing cy-près debate. To review the article, please click on the following link: http://www.lawtimesnews.com/201405053949/headline-news/counsel-s-recommendation-rejected-as-judge-weighs-in-on-cy-pres-debate

On April 28th, 2014, Koskie Minsky LLP hosted a seminar on Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation with guest speakers Richard Austin and James Kosa from Deeth Williams Wall LLP. To review the archived presentation please enter the password below and visit the following link: Password: km0428 http://hosting.epresence.tv/oba/20/Watch/1627.aspx    

To review the editorial entitled “Together, we can achieve a secure retirement for all” please click on the following link:  http://www.thestar.com/opinion/commentary/2014/04/17/together_we_can_achieve_a_secure_retirement_for_all.html

We are pleased to announce that Susan Philpott has been appointed to the Actuarial Standards Oversight Council (ASOC) effective January 1, 2015.

Murray Gold was quoted in the Toronto Star on April 12, 2014 in regard to the retirement income crisis. The full story is available here: http://www.thestar.com/business/2014/04/11/a_pensioncrisis_primer.html.

Murray Gold to Chair the Conference Board of Canada’s Pension Summit, 2014. The Conference Board’s Pension Summit attracts a roster of leading pension experts and will canvass a range of current pension reform issues, including the prospects for a new province-wide pension arrangement in Ontario.

The Claims process for these matters have begun and will continue until AUGUST 5, 2014. Former residents of the Huronia, Rideau, and Southwestern Regional Centres can now file claims seeking compensation from the settlement funds.  

To view Kirk Baert’s profile from The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers please click here.

Jason Turnbull from CBC interviews Garth Myers Regarding Crown Ward Class Action. To listen to the interview please click on the following link:  http://www.cbc.ca/pointsnorth/episodes/2014/03/24/proposed-class-action-lawsuit-looking-for-crown-wards/  

Kirk Baert has been appointed as Advisory Board Member of the IBA’s Access to Justice and Legal Aid Committee. He will serve from 01 January 2014 to 31 December 2015.

Murray Gold has been appointed to its Technical Advisory Group on Retirement Security. The Committee’s mandate is to advise the government on how to improve the retirement income system, including an Ontario-based alternative to a Canada Pension Plan (CPP) enhancement. The Committee was created by the Premier after the Government of Canada rejected a broad

Murray Gold will provide the Legal Update at SHARE’s 10th Annual BC Pension Forum in Vancouver, British Columbia on February 28, 2014. The Conference will be held at the Empire Landmark Hotel. The Legal Update commences at 10:45 am.

Kirk has been named a member of the Law Commission of Ontario’s Class Action Advisory Group. The Advisory Group is made up of legal practitioners, a member of the judiciary, academics from law, representatives from professional organizations and government representatives. The role of the Advisory Group is to provide advice on the issues raised by

To view the article please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP congratulates the Black Law Student’s Association of Canada on its 23rd Annual National Conference and is pleased to once again be the Diversity Moot Sponsor. We look forward to working with BLSAC this year and in the future.

Kirk Baert has been recommended in the 3rd edition of Benchmark Canada, the Guide to Canada’s Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys as a litigation star. He has been identified as one of the preeminent litigation practitioners in the province of Ontario.

The Koskie Minsky team consisting of Craig Flood, Garth Myers, Joe Gemmell, Jordan Bodiguel and Michael Hancock (below) grew moustaches over the course of November in an effort to raise money and awareness for the Movember Charity. These programs, directed by the Movember Foundation, are focused on awareness and education, living with and beyond cancer,

The Koskie Minsky University Lecture in Labour Law was held at Western University, in London Ontario on Friday October 25, 2013. Our Lecturer was Mr. Justice Thomas Cromwell of the Supreme Court of Canada. This was the Eighth Koskie Minsky Lecture, with the Lecture Series starting in 2003. Mr. Justice Cromwell’s Lecture was delivered to

The articling students at Koskie Minsky LLP have teamed up with articling students at other law firms in Toronto and the Yonge Street Mission to collect warm clothing from members of the Toronto legal community for the benefit of those less fortunate. Anything from blankets and sleeping bags to gloves, hats, scarves, boots, coats, sweaters,

On October 25th and 26th, 2013, the Faculty of Law at the University of Western Ontario, Koskie Minsky LLP and Heenan Blaikie LLP are co-hosting a Lecture and Conference on the theme of Rights at Work. All events will be held at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario. The 8th Koskie Minsky University

To view Canada’s History magazine article entitled “News: Orillia Settlement”, please click here.  

Press Release September 16, 2013 – Toronto Glavin Gordon Clements and Koskie Minsky LLP Form Strategic Affiliation Koskie Glavin Gordon is formed Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce the formation of a strategic affiliation with Glavin Gordon Clements. The affiliation brings together two leading law firms, both committed to protecting and enhancing the interests

Ari Kaplan’s Pension Law, 2nd ed. will be published on October 1, 2013. For more information about the book and to pre-order, please click here.

Ari Kaplan was featured in an interview for the Inspiration page at Benefits Canada. To review the interview entitled “Kaplan strikes a chord in music and pensions”, please click here.

Please click on the following link to review the Globe and Mail article. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/the-law-page/bmo-advisers-overtime-lawsuit-set-to-proceed/article13903702/ To view additional articles related to the certification please click on the following links: http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/story/2013/08/22/bmo-class-action-overtime.html http://business.financialpost.com/2013/08/22/ontario-court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-for-unpaid-overtime/ http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/08/21/court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-for-unpaid-overtime/ http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/business/court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-for-unpaid-overtime-220584471.html http://www.benefitscanada.com/news/class-action-overtime-lawsuit-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-certified-42992 http://www.investmentexecutive.com/-/bmo-class-action-certified http://www.timescolonist.com/business/court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-for-unpaid-overtime-1.596829 http://www.chroniclejournal.com/news/cp/business/court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo http://www.advisor.ca/news/industry-news/advisor-overtime-lawsuit-against-bmo-nesbitt-burns-certified-126228http://news.ca.msn.com/money/court-certifies-class-action-against-bmo-1 http://www.stockwatch.com/News/Item.aspx?bid=Z-C:BMO-2098557&symbol=BMO®ion=C http://www.topix.com/forum/business/banking/TSSBHK6NUISRAL8QH http://www.airingnews.com/articles/377464/Class-action-over-unpaid-overtime-at-BMO-Nesbitt-Burns-certified

Kirk Baert has been recognized as a leading expert for Class Actions advice in Canada by Corporate INTL.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 10 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the Eighth edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada. Selection to Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive and rigorous peer-review survey comprising more than three million confidential evaluations by top lawyers.

To view the Benefits Canada article entitled “Directions for pension reform: At the crossroads” written by Murray Gold, please click here.

Koskie Minsky has consistently ranked among the top-rated Toronto Labour and Pension Law firms, according to the 2013 Lexpert®/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada. Practice groups included in this category are Labour Relations (Construction Sector), Employment Law, Labour Relations, Occupational Health & Safety, Pensions & Employee Benefits, and Workers’ Compensation. The

Chambers and Partners has recognized Koskie Minsky’s considerable experience in class actions. Kirk Baert received special mention.  

To view the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “The case for cy-près distributions” written by Kirk Baert, please click here.

We are pleased to announce that Kirk Baert has been listed in Global Law Experts in the area of Class Actions. To view his profile please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2013 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

We are pleased to announce that Kirk Baert will be included in the 2013 Lexpert® Guide to the Leading US/Canada Cross-border Litigation Lawyers in Canada (US Litigation Guide) scheduled to be published in November 2013.

Michael Mazzuca appeared before the Senate Banking, Trade and Commerce Committee in Ottawa on May 22, 2013 to make submissions regarding Bill C-377 on behalf of the Canadian Bar Association. Michael was recently quoted in the National Magazine article entitled “Labour pains”.

Kirk Baert has been nominated by Canadian Lawyer Magazine for inclusion in the 2013 Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in Canada. Kirk has been listed in the corporate-commercial category which includes many aspects related to the practice of business law including litigation, big deals, class actions, and more. To view the full list of nominees

Many members of Koskie Minsky actively participate in the activities of the Ontario Bar Association and Canadian Bar Association.  Two members of the KM Labour Department recently wrote articles for the Ontario Bar Association Labour & Employment Law Section Newsletter. To view the article entitled “Denial of Reinstatement After Unjust Discharge – Again”, authored by Andrea

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to sponsor the Winkler Institute for Dispute Resolution. The Institute, which will be housed at Osgoode Hall Law School, has been established to honour Chief Justice Warren K. Winkler’s distinguished career as a labour lawyer, Judge of the Superior Court of Justice, Regional Senior Justice and Chief Justice of Ontario.

Koskie Minsky is proud to be a part of the “16 Firms for 160 Girls” Campaign organized by the Canadian Charity, The Equality Effect. This campaign is a collaborative initiative with partners from 16 of the leading law firms in Canada. The project is an innovative litigation strategy designed to achieve access to justice for

Koskie Minsky LLP is proud to have donated to the upcoming Rock for LIFE event being held at the Lula Lounge on May 2nd.  This is a fundraiser for the Lawyers International Food Enterprise. The event will feature a number of musically inclined lawyers!

Chambers and Partners has once again recognized that Koskie Minsky LLP has a prominent reputation for pensions and benefits work, with expertise encompassing investment issues, surplus and wind-up matters, and plan administration. It is also highly recommended for its union-side employment and labour work. The group handles labour matters involving the manufacturing, healthcare, communication and education sectors, and is

Melissa Reiter will be teaching “Impossible Law School” at The Academy of the Impossible on Monday nights in January and February 2013. The course will cover a number of practical topics like starting a business or non-profit corporation, business negotiations & strategy and provide information on common legal concerns. The Academy of the Impossible is

On behalf of the Canadian Association of Labour Lawyers, Koskie Minsky LLP hosted internationally-renowned labour and human rights lawyer Alirio Uribe Munoz for a meeting and presentation on labour relations in Colombia. Mr. Uribe spoke on the extreme conditions trade unionists and lawyers face in attempting to defend basic workers’ rights, and the relationship to

The plaintiffs obtain settlement of $117 million from Ernst & Young LLP, subject to court approvals. The settlement is the largest settlement by an auditor in Canadian history and is one of the largest auditor settlements worldwide.

Kirk Baert was quoted in the Financial Post news articles entitled  “High class action awards discourage lawyers from taking on cases” and “Relief for plaintiffs in secondary class actions raises questions”.

Michael Mazzuca was quoted today in the Toronto Star on Bill C-377. To view the article entitled “MPs clash over Bill C-377 to force public disclosures by labour unions”, please click here.

James Harnum was quoted in the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “The legal side of the union dues disclosure dispute”. To view this article please click here.

Melissa Reiter is part of a team of lawyers working with Canadian charity The Equality Effect who have filed an international human rights class action/constitutional law case on behalf of young women and girls who are victims of sexual violence in Kenya as part of their “160 Girls” project. The action was filed with the

Koskie Minsky LLP will be participating in Movember. During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in Canada and around the world. With their “Mo’s”, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives. For more information

Jody Brown was quoted in The Orillia Packet and Times article entitled “HRC lawsuit ‘proceeding as planned’. To view this article please click here.

On October 11, Melissa Reiter ran a workshop called “Be Your Own Boss: Starting Your Own Business or Non-Profit” in conjunction with the Ladies’ Rhythm and Movement Club of Toronto (the LRMC). The LRMC is is a women’s knowledge bartering collective which hosts free monthly workshops on skills for women in the Toronto community.

We are pleased to announce that Michael Mazzuca of our Pension and Benefits Department is the Chair of the Canadian Bar Association Pension and Benefits Section for the 2012-2013 term.

Jody Brown was quoted in the Chatham Daily News Article entitled “Lawsuit inches forward”. To view the article please click here.

We are pleased to announce that George Dzuro has been elected as a member of the Executive Board of the Ontario Bar Association Business Law Section for 2012-2013.

Supreme Court weighs controversial win for pensioners: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/supreme-court-weighs-controversial-win-for-pensioners/article4233749/  

Arleen Huggins and Craig Flood will both be panellists at the Osgoode Professional Development Program on “The Duty to Accommodate: Making the Toughest Calls” in Toronto on June 12 – 13, 2012. Further information can be obtained at www.osgoodepd.ca.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2012 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

We are pleased to announce that Kirk Baert of our Class Actions Department has been named the Chair of the Ontario Bar Association Class Actions Law Section Executive for the 2012-2013 term.

To view the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “Twenty years of the Class Proceedings Act” written by Kirk Baert, please click here.

To view the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “Gatekeeping defined” written by Kirk Baert, please click here.

Kirk Baert was quoted in the Financial Post news article entitled “Lawyers target Thomson Reuters in copyright class action”, to view this article please click here.

Koskie Minsky has commenced a $4billion shareholder class action against Kinross Gold Corporation.

To view the Legal Post’s article entitled “Sino-Forest certification set”, please click here.

Indspire has announced Thomas Palmer as the 2012 recipient of the Koskie Minsky LLP Scholarship award. Indspire is a charitable organization that is dedicated to raising funds to deliver programs that provide the necessary tools for Indigenous peoples, especially youth to achieve their potential. To date Indspire, through its Education Program has awarded more than $42.7-million in

To view the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “Gatekeeping defined” written by Kirk Baert, please click here.

On February 29, 2012, a class action was commenced relating to the VIA train derailment that occurred near Burlington Ontario, on February 26, 2012. Koskie Minsky LLP, a leading class action firm, and Howie Sacks & Henry LLP, a leading personal injury firm, have commenced the action on behalf of David Carmichael and all of

Jonathan Ptak offers views on trends and tips in the Class Action world in the CBA newsletter entitled “Trends and Practice Tips From the Plaintiff Counsel’s Perspective”. To view the newsletter, please visit http://www.cba.org/CBA/PracticeLink/02-12-BC/04.aspx.

Sino-Forest class action and Indalex have been listed in Legal Post’s “Big Cases”. To view the articles related to these cases, please click on the following links: Sino-Forest class action snares BDO, Bank of America and Credit Suisse Pensioners set for landmark Supreme Court of Canada battle against secured creditors

To view the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “Perell was right, the others wrong” written by Kirk Baert, please click here.

The Honourable Justice Perell grants carriage to Koskie Minsky LLP and Siskinds LLP in the Labourers v. Sino Forest class action. For more information about this class action, please click here.

Kirk Baert was quoted in the Canadian Lawyer Magazine article entitled “Tipping toward the plaintiffs”. To view this article please click here.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 11 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2011 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Kirk Baert has been recognized by Lexpert as one of Canada’s highest-ranked litigation lawyers in the field of Class Action litigation. Kirk was featured in Lexpert’s Special Edition Insert on Leading Litigation Lawyers in the December issue of The Report on Business magazine.

A documentary entitled “The Gristle in the stew” about the Huronia Regional Center class action will air on CBC November 27, 2011.  The documentary will be broadcast on The Sunday Edition on CBC Radio One across Canada, on Sirius Satellite radio 159 across North America and via the web at http://www.cbc.ca/thesundayedition.

The Ontario Superior Court approved a settlement today between the CAW, GMCL and retirees that provides for the participation of retirees in the auto sector retiree health care trust, the first “Employee Life and Health Trust” established in Canada. KM lawyers Murray Gold, Jonathan Ptak, Roberto Tomassini, and Simon Archer acted for the CAW in

Murray Gold has recently been named as a Fellow of the Ontario Teachers’ Federation in recognition of having advised the Federation about teachers’ pensions for over two decades.

Court of Appeal gives priority to pension funds in landmark Indalex decision April 7, 2011 In a precedent setting April 7, 2011 decision in the Indalex restructuring, the Ontario Court of Appeal ruled in favour of two groups of pensioners. Andrew Hatnay and Demetrios Yiokaris of Koskie Minsky LLP successfully represented one of these groups,

Koskie Minsky LLP represented the Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 113 in negotiating the formal joint sponsorship of the TTC Pension Fund Society, and a solvency funding exemption for the Society as a jointly sponsored pension plan (JSPP) under the Pension Benefits Act (Ontario). The Society is the first JSPP established after August 24, 2010 to

We are pleased to announce that Kirk Baert of our Class Actions Department is the Vice-Chair of the Ontario Bar Association Class Actions Law Section Executive for the 2011-2012 term.

Al Esterbauer, George Dzuro and Roberto Tomassini participated at the Pathways Seventh Annual Golf Classic co-sponsored by long time supporters of the Pathways program, the Canadian Auto Workers and Chrysler Canada.

Raymond Koskie Q.C. (retired), one of our founding partners, has been honoured this year with two awards for his dedication and contribution to pension and benefits law during his career. On June 14, 2011 Raymond will be presented with the Ontario Bar Association Pensions and Benefits Section, 2011 Award for Excellence in Pensions and Benefits

We are pleased to announce that Ernie Schirru of our Labour Department will be Vice Chair – Labour for the OBA Labour and Employment Law Section Executive for the 2011-2012 term.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that Donald Lapowich has been invited to join the prestigious Council on Litigation Management. The Council is a nonpartisan alliance comprised of thousands of insurance companies, corporations, Corporate Counsel, Litigation and Risk Managers, claims professionals and attorneys. Through education and collaboration the organization’s goals are to create a

Koskie Minsky is very proud to announce that Bernie Fishbein has been appointed by the Government of Ontario to serve as Chair of the Ontario Labour Relations Board. He has assumed his new position effective February 28, 2011. Bernie has been instrumental in the growth and success of Koskie Minsky. He was a founding partner

This is a milestone year for our firm: 2011 marks our 30th anniversary. We have much to celebrate. We have grown from a small office of 5 founding lawyers to 40 lawyers and 4 law students. Together with our experienced staff of administrative assistants, law clerks and paralegals, we are proud to continue to deliver

Larry Steinberg retired as a partner of the firm effective January 1, 2011 to pursue a career as a mediator/arbitrator. Since he joined the firm in 1983 Larry was an integral and important member of the firm and the labour department. He was involved in many important cases during that time. The quality of his

We are proud to announce that Koskie Minsky LLP ranked sixth overall in the Daily Bread top 10 employees giving challenge. Daily Bread supplies 13 million pounds of emergency food to people across the GTA through over 1 million food bank visits annually. Children account for 35% of Daily Bread’s clients.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2010 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Ernie Schirru of our Labour Department has been elected for a third consecutive term on the Ontario Bar Association Labour and Employment Section Executive for the July 2010 to June 2011 term.

The International Tribunal on Crimes against Women of Burma was held in New York on March 2nd, 2010. The tribunal provided a powerful spotlight on the oppression and human rights abuses in Burma in order to support a development of just and peaceful Burma. A report for the International Tribunal on Crimes Against Women of

A national task force of lawyers and judges has been established to address issues surrounding national class actions. For more information please click on the following links: http://www.classactionstaskforce.ca/ http://www.groupedetravailrecourscollectifs.ca/

Koskie Minsky LLP is retained by the Canadian Auto Workers to represent them in the negotiation, establishment and implementation of the first Employee Life and Health Trust in Canada. The Trust will be funded, and will provide post-retirement benefits to tens of thousands of auto sector retirees and their spouses and dependants. Koskie Minsky LLP

For the second consecutive year Koskie Minsky ranks as the top-rated Toronto Labour and Pension Law firm, according to the 2010 Lexpert®/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada. Practice groups included in this category are Labour Relations (Construction Sector), Employment Law, Labour Law, Occupational Health & Safety, Pensions & Employee Benefits, and

On July 1, 2010, the 8% Ontario Retail Sales Tax (RST) will be eliminated and the new 13% Ontario Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) will come into effect. Essentially, the HST will combine the RST (8%) and the GST (5%) while for the most part, following the rules of the GST. Compliance and collection of the

Koskie Minsky partners are consistently recommended among the top lawyers in Canada in their respective fields by Lexpert® . The 2010 Lexpert®/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada lists four Koskie Minsky partners acknowledged by their peers as among the top lawyers in Canada: Kirk M. Baert – Class Action Litigation Bernie

Koskie Minsky is currently participating in the Daily Bread Food Bank Law Firm Challenge. After the first week Koskie Minsky ranked 1st of 38 law firms, raising more money than any other firm. The Law firm challenge is the single largest corporate fundraising event for the daily bread food bank. Last year 38 law firms

On October 30, 2009, Koskie Minsky once again sponsored the 2009 University Lecture in Labour Law at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario.   The Honourable Madam Justice Rosalie Abella of the Supreme Court of Canada spoke to an audience of 140 people which included lawyers, judges, professors and students, in commemoration of

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario (RGD Ontario) has announced the recipients of the 2009 Student Awards, including the Koskie Minsky Award for Print Design In recognition of her outstanding achievements, the winner is Sarah Yoon, a graduating student from the joint design degree program offered by Sheridan College and York University. Sarah

Ari Kaplan has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the OBA Pension and Benefits Executive for 2009-2010 and has been appointed as a member of the executive of the CBA Pension and Benefits section.

We are pleased to announce that Ernie Schirru has been re-elected to the OBA Labour and Employment Law Executive for 2009 -2010.

Koskie Minsky LLP is pleased to announce that 12 of the Firm’s lawyers were chosen by their fellow professionals to be listed in the 2009 edition of The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory. The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory compiles lists of outstanding professionals by conducting peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their

Koskie Minsky is pleased to announce that the firm is ranked as the leading law firm in Toronto among both management and union firms in the 2009 Lexpert/American Laywer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada in the Labour Relations and Pensions Practice Area (which includes Labour Relations: Construction Sector, Employment Law, Labour Relations

On November 20, 2008 the Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions released its final report, titled “A Fine Balance: Safe Pensions, Affordable Plans, Fair Rules.” The OECP Report, as well as the Research Program Summary and Research Papers are available on the OECP website. The report, written by Commissioner Harry Arthurs, contains 142 recommendations and proposes

Koskie Minsky is pleased to announce the following lawyers’ appointments and elections to Ontario Bar Association Committees: Nicole Brown – Member at Large, Civil Litigation Executive Committee; Arleen Huggins – Chair, Equal Opportunity Committee, and Council Member, Toronto Region; Ari Kaplan – Secretary of the Pension and Benefits Executive Committee; Nancy Shapiro – Continuing Legal