We are thrilled to announce that Rick Engel, one of our distinguished lawyers from Gerrand Rath Johnson, has been named a co-winner of this year's Bora Laskin Award. This award is the highest honour bestowed upon labour lawyers in Canada, and the selection committee was unanimous in recognizing Rick’s exceptional contributions to labour law and his unwavering personal integrity.  

Upon learning of his selection, Rick was moved to tears, particularly when he saw that one of his heroes, Justice Rosie Abella, was among the past recipients. The award ceremonies will take place in both Toronto and Regina, celebrating this significant achievement. 

Rick Engel is recognized as one of Saskatchewan's leading union-aligned labour lawyers. His innovative arguments in motions and hearings before the Courts, the Labour Relations Board, and various Arbitration Boards have set him apart as a trailblazer in the field. This award, established by the University of Toronto, honours individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Canadian labour law.  

Named after the late Chief Justice Bora Laskin (1912–1984)—a pre-eminent labour law scholar and arbitrator before his tenure on the Supreme Court of Canada—the award considers nominees from various fields within labour law, including academia, private practice, courts, tribunals, and arbitration. 

Congratulations Rick!