Defamation Law for Unions
9:30 AM - 4:00 PM PST Maritime Labour Centre 111 Victoria Drive Vancouver, BC V5L 4C4
Unions and union officers have long been the subject of defamation lawsuits, whether for media statements, leaflets, newspaper pieces, posted workplace notices, and even picket signs. However, two things have changed in recent years. With the increased use of social media for organizing campaigns, regular communications with members, bargaining, and in strikes/lockouts, unions are increasingly dealing with threats of lawsuits, demands for apologies, and actual lawsuits. This change is made the more serious by the increase in damage awards, particularly for corporate plaintiffs.
This one day course is intended to equip those attending with the ability to make their own judgement as to whether or not they or their union risk a lawsuit for what they are publishing. It will deal with the definition of defamation, as well as the various defenses to an action for defamation. It will concentrate on the defenses of justification, fair comment, qualified privilege, and responsible communication. It will also deal with the new legislation designed to protect individuals and organizations from lawsuits that are primarily intended to silence criticisms – the SLAPP law – Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation.
In Person at the Maritime Labour Centre
Facilitator: Leo McGrady
Leo McGrady KC is counsel with Koskie Glavin Gordon. He specializes in labour law, human rights, criminal law, and libel law, all on behalf of unions and employees. Leo has taught these courses at the Faculty of Law UBC, and in the Labour Studies Programs at Capilano University and Simon Fraser University. He has been counsel on hundreds of trials, hearings and appeals throughout his career.