Highlights

  • The CRTC has updated its website with various regulatory documents and decisions, including approvals for broadcasting undertakings in several Canadian provinces.
  • Canada has initiated a CUSMA panel review against the U.S. regarding countervailing duties on Canadian softwood lumber, with established procedures for interested parties to participate.
  • Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, the use of a potentially toxic substance is permitted with conditions, including restrictions on its use in consumer products and requirements for environmental safety and record-keeping.
  • The Canadian government has made several appointments across judicial, police, financial, and environmental sectors, and continues to offer opportunities for Canadians to apply for Governor in Council positions, promoting a merit-based and diverse selection process.

CRTC Updates and Canada’s CUSMA Panel Review Request on U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has updated its website with detailed decisions, notices of consultation, regulatory policies, information bulletins, and orders. These documents are accessible at the Commission’s office and online under “Public proceedings & hearings.” Recent administrative decisions include approvals for Télé-Mag inc. in Quebec and various broadcasting undertakings in British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta.

Additionally, a Request for Panel Review under the Canada—United States—Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) has been filed by the Canadian government and several provincial governments, industry councils, and companies against the United States Department of Commerce’s final determination on countervailing duties for certain softwood lumber products from Canada. The review will follow the established Rules of Procedure for Article 10.12 (Binational Panel Reviews) of CUSMA. Interested parties have specific deadlines to file a Complaint or Notice of Appearance to participate in the panel review. The panel will focus on alleged errors of fact or law, including jurisdictional challenges, as outlined in the complaints. Information on the review process can be obtained from the USMCA Secretariat, U.S. Section. [Source]

Regulation of Toxic Substance and Canadian Government Appointments

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, under Ministerial Condition No. 21535, permits the manufacture or import of the substance 1-hexanol, 2-ethyl-, reaction products with 1,6-diisocyanatohexane, with specific conditions. The substance is suspected to be toxic, and its use is restricted in consumer products under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act. The notifier, defined as the person who provided information about the substance, must inform and obtain written confirmation from any party they transfer the substance to, ensuring they comply with the conditions. In case of environmental release, immediate measures must be taken to prevent further release and inform the Minister of the Environment. Records of the substance’s use and transactions must be maintained for at least five years.

Various appointments have been made to positions within the Canadian government, including judicial appointments to different courts, the designation of a fingerprint examiner for the New Westminster Police Department, and executive positions in financial and environmental departments. The Privy Council Office announces opportunities for Canadians to apply for various Governor in Council positions, emphasizing a merit-based, transparent process that seeks diversity and a healthy, respectful work environment. [Source]

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