LAURA PARKINSON LL.B. (UBC), LL. M. (Queens)

It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the passing of our friend, colleague and associate Laura Parkinson on December 10, 2009. Laura leaves to mourn her loss her loving partner, Stephen Partington and her son Felix (13) along with many friends and colleagues at Victory Square Law Office LLP, at the B.C. Labour Relations Board, in both the labour bar and the B.C. bar generally, in addition to many loyal clients and friends in the trade union movement and within the larger labour community.

Laura received her LL.B. from the University of British Columbia in 1983 and her LL.M. in Labour Law and Constitutional Law from Queen's University in 1986. She articled with Baigent, Jackson, Blair and was called to the bar in 1984. Laura continued practising with that firm as an associate until leaving for graduate studies. She served as a staff lawyer with the Labour Relations Board in 1986 and 1987. She then returned to the law firm of Baigent, Jackson, Blair and remained with that firm when it became Victory Square Law Office in 1990. Laura continued as an associate until her appointment as a Vice Chair of the Labour Relations Board in August 1995. She served three terms as a Vice Chair. Laura returned to practice as an associate with Victory Square Law Office in September 2004.

CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE OF LAURA PARKINSON

A celebration of the life of Laura Parkinson will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2009 at the
Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph Street, Vancouver, B.C.

Download the program for the celebration of the life of Laura Parkinson.

LAURA’S LEGACY FUND

Upon learning of Laura's terminal illness, Victory Square Law Office LLP determined that a legacy should be established reflecting Laura's contributions. Various options were discussed with Laura. She said she wanted a project which reflected two of her passions — the education of women and the betterment of the lives of those in Third World countries. Laura felt that a fund which would support the Women's Scholarship House in Ethiopia would reflect both her objectives.

Scholarship House is run by Partners in the Horn of Africa (an organization which Laura actively supported). It provides support for Ethiopian women who have the desire and ability to pursue post-high school skills. Support is in the form of financial assistance to enable pursuit of educational goals and also in the form of safe and secure housing.

A trust account has been established for all contributed funds and Victory Square Law Office LLP will work with Partners in the Horn of Africa to determine the best method of distribution.
Receipts for charitable donations will be provided by Partners in the Horn of Africa.

Download the donation form for Laura's Legacy Fund.

If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Aida Holmes, Office Manager, at 604- 602-7998 or by email.