Policy Submissions

In this submission to the Task Force reviewing the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act, Canada’s whistleblower protection legislation, the Centre for Free Expression puts forward a small number of changes to the legislation that are essential if it is to afford any real protections to those who speak out about problems and wrongdoing.  CFE points out the urgent need for change given that in the 17 years since the law came into effect, during which time more than 500 people have submitted formal complaints of reprisal, not one has received any remedy.

CFE urged the Commission to act on the testimony of expert panels and witnesses that there is an immense public interest in transparency regarding foreign interference. "The Commission cannot defer to the Government of Canada’s conclusions on what can and cannot be disclosed [but must] be prepared to seek recourse in Federal Court on an expedited basis" in the event the Government attempts to overly restrict public access to essential documents about foreign interference.

In its opening submission, the CFE addresses principles for public confidence, the necessity of on transparency throughout the Inquiry, and the importance of the public’s right to know.

In its submission, CFE details the important improvements Bill C-290 will make to the current, deeply flawed, federal whistleblower protection legislation. It recommends that C-290 be passed and given royal assent as soon as possible. At the same time, CFE makes clear that, while vastly improved by C-290 changes, some serious shortcomings of the PSDPA remain and that further changes are required to bring it up to international best practice standards.

CFE and 12 other civil society organizations write Minister of Canadian Heritage outlining shared concerns and hopes for Canada’s upcoming online safety proposal.