Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19

Human Rights Code

R.S.O. 1990, CHAPTER H.19

Consolidation Period: From June 30, 2008 to the e-Laws currency date.

Last amendment: 2006, c. 35, Sched. C, ss. 54, 132.

SKIP TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS

Preamble
PART I FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION
1.	Services
2.	Accommodation
3.	Contracts
4.	Accommodation of person under eighteen
5.	Employment
6.	Vocational associations
7.	Sexual harassment
8.	Reprisals
9.	Infringement prohibited
PART II INTERPRETATION AND APPLICATION
10.	Definitions re: Parts I and II
11.	Constructive discrimination
12.	Discrimination because of association
13.	Announced intention to discriminate
14.	Special programs
15.	Age sixty-five or over
16.	Canadian Citizenship
17.	Disability
18.	Special interest organizations
18.1	Solemnization of marriage by religious officials
19.	Separate school rights preserved
20.	Restriction of facilities by sex
21.	Residential accommodation
22.	Restrictions for insurance contracts, etc.
23.	Employment
24.	Special employment
25.	Employee benefit and pension plans
26.	Discrimination in employment under government contracts
PART III THE ONTARIO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
27.	The Commission
28.	Acting Chief Commissioner
29.	Functions of Commission
30.	Commission policies
31.	Inquiries
31.1	Search warrant
31.2	Evidence used in Tribunal proceedings
31.3	Anti-Racism Secretariat
31.4	Disability Rights Secretariat
31.5	Advisory groups
31.6	Annual report
31.7	Other reports
PART IV HUMAN RIGHTS TRIBUNAL OF ONTARIO
32.	Tribunal
33.	Panels
34.	Application by person
35.	Application by Commission
36.	Parties
37.	Intervention by Commission
38.	Disclosure of information to Commission
39.	Powers of Tribunal
40.	Disposition of applications
41.	Interpretation of Part and rules
42.	Statutory Powers Procedure Act
43.	Tribunal rules
44.	Tribunal inquiry
45.	Deferral of application
45.1	Dismissal in accordance with rules
45.2	Orders of Tribunal: applications under s. 34
45.3	Orders of Tribunal: applications under s. 35
45.4	Matters referred to Commission
45.5	Documents published by Commission
45.6	Stated case to Divisional court
45.7	Reconsideration of Tribunal decision
45.8	Decisions final
45.9	Settlements
45.10	Annual report
PART IV.1 HUMAN RIGHTS LEGAL SUPPORT CENTRE
45.11	Centre established
45.12	Objects
45.13	Provision of support services
45.14	Board of directors
45.15	Government funding
45.16	Centre’s money not part of Consolidated Revenue Fund
45.17	Annual report
45.18	Audit
PART V GENERAL
46.	Definitions, general
46.1	Civil remedy
46.2	Penalty
46.3	Acts of officers, etc.
47.	Act binds Crown
48.	Regulations
PART VI TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
49.	Definitions
50.	Orders respecting special programs
51.	Application of s. 32 (3)
52.	Tribunal powers before effective date
53.	Complaints before Commission on effective date
54.	Settlements effected by Commission
55.	Where complaints referred to Tribunal
56.	Regulations, transitional matters
57.	Review

Preamble

Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world and is in accord with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as proclaimed by the United Nations;

And Whereas it is public policy in Ontario to recognize the dignity and worth of every person and to provide for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination that is contrary to law, and having as its aim the creation of a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person so that each person feels a part of the community and able to contribute fully to the development and well-being of the community and the Province;

And Whereas these principles have been confirmed in Ontario by a number of enactments of the Legislature and it is desirable to revise and extend the protection of human rights in Ontario;

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

PART I
FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION

Services

1.  Every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to services, goods and facilities, without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 1; 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (1); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (1).

Accommodation

2.  (1)  Every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of accommodation, without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, disability or the receipt of public assistance. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 2 (1); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (2); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (2).

Harassment in accommodation

(2)  Every person who occupies accommodation has a right to freedom from harassment by the landlord or agent of the landlord or by an occupant of the same building because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, age, marital status, family status, disability or the receipt of public assistance. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 2 (2); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (3); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (3).

Contracts

3.  Every person having legal capacity has a right to contract on equal terms without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 3; 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (4); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (4).

Accommodation of person under eighteen

4.  (1)  Every sixteen or seventeen year old person who has withdrawn from parental control has a right to equal treatment with respect to occupancy of and contracting for accommodation without discrimination because the person is less than eighteen years old. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 4 (1).

Idem

(2)  A contract for accommodation entered into by a sixteen or seventeen year old person who has withdrawn from parental control is enforceable against that person as if the person were eighteen years old. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 4 (2).

Employment

5.  (1)  Every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 5 (1); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (5); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (5).

Harassment in employment

(2)  Every person who is an employee has a right to freedom from harassment in the workplace by the employer or agent of the employer or by another employee because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 5 (2); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (6); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (6).

Vocational associations

6.  Every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to membership in any trade union, trade or occupational association or self-governing profession without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 6; 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (7); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (1); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (7).

Sexual harassment

Harassment because of sex in accommodation

7.  (1)  Every person who occupies accommodation has a right to freedom from harassment because of sex by the landlord or agent of the landlord or by an occupant of the same building. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 7 (1).

Harassment because of sex in workplaces

(2)  Every person who is an employee has a right to freedom from harassment in the workplace because of sex by his or her employer or agent of the employer or by another employee. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 7 (2).

Sexual solicitation by a person in position to confer benefit, etc.

(3)  Every person has a right to be free from,

(a) a sexual solicitation or advance made by a person in a position to confer, grant or deny a benefit or advancement to the person where the person making the solicitation or advance knows or ought reasonably to know that it is unwelcome; or

(b) a reprisal or a threat of reprisal for the rejection of a sexual solicitation or advance where the reprisal is made or threatened by a person in a position to confer, grant or deny a benefit or advancement to the person. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 7 (3).

Reprisals

8.  Every person has a right to claim and enforce his or her rights under this Act, to institute and participate in proceedings under this Act and to refuse to infringe a right of another person under this Act, without reprisal or threat of reprisal for so doing. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 8.

Infringement prohibited

9.  No person shall infringe or do, directly or indirectly, anything that infringes a right under this Part. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 9.

PART II
INTERPRETATION AND APPLICATION

Definitions re: Parts I and II

10.  (1)  In Part I and in this Part,

“age” means an age that is 18 years or more; (“âge”)

“disability” means,

(a) any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device,

(b) a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability,

(c) a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language,

(d) a mental disorder, or

(e) an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997; (“handicap”)

“equal” means subject to all requirements, qualifications and considerations that are not a prohibited ground of discrimination; (“égal”)

“family status” means the status of being in a parent and child relationship; (“état familial”)

“group insurance” means insurance whereby the lives or well-being or the lives and well-being of a number of persons are insured severally under a single contract between an insurer and an association or an employer or other person; (“assurance-groupe”)

“harassment” means engaging in a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome; (“harcèlement”)

“marital status” means the status of being married, single, widowed, divorced or separated and includes the status of living with a person in a conjugal relationship outside marriage; (“état matrimonial”)

“record of offences” means a conviction for,

(a) an offence in respect of which a pardon has been granted under the Criminal Records Act (Canada) and has not been revoked, or

(b) an offence in respect of any provincial enactment; (“casier judiciaire”)

“services” does not include a levy, fee, tax or periodic payment imposed by law; (“services”)

“spouse” means the person to whom a person is married or with whom the person is living in a conjugal relationship outside marriage. (“conjoint”) R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 10 (1); 1993, c. 27, Sched.; 1997, c. 16, s. 8; 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (8); 2001, c. 13, s. 19; 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (2, 3); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (8-10); 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (1).

Pregnancy

(2)  The right to equal treatment without discrimination because of sex includes the right to equal treatment without discrimination because a woman is or may become pregnant. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 10 (2).

Past and presumed disabilities

(3)  The right to equal treatment without discrimination because of disability includes the right to equal treatment without discrimination because a person has or has had a disability or is believed to have or to have had a disability. 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (4).

Constructive discrimination

11.  (1)  A right of a person under Part I is infringed where a requirement, qualification or factor exists that is not discrimination on a prohibited ground but that results in the exclusion, restriction or preference of a group of persons who are identified by a prohibited ground of discrimination and of whom the person is a member, except where,

(a) the requirement, qualification or factor is reasonable and bona fide in the circumstances; or

(b) it is declared in this Act, other than in section 17, that to discriminate because of such ground is not an infringement of a right. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 11 (1).

Idem

(2)  The Commission, the Tribunal or a court shall not find that a requirement, qualification or factor is reasonable and bona fide in the circumstances unless it is satisfied that the needs of the group of which the person is a member cannot be accommodated without undue hardship on the person responsible for accommodating those needs, considering the cost, outside sources of funding, if any, and health and safety requirements, if any. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 11 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 65 (1); 2002, c. 18, Sched. C, s. 2 (1).

Idem

(3)  The Commission, the Tribunal or a court shall consider any standards prescribed by the regulations for assessing what is undue hardship. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 11 (3); 1994, c. 27, s. 65 (2); 2002, c. 18, Sched. C, s. 2 (2).

Discrimination because of association

12.  A right under Part I is infringed where the discrimination is because of relationship, association or dealings with a person or persons identified by a prohibited ground of discrimination. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 12.

Announced intention to discriminate

13.  (1)  A right under Part I is infringed by a person who publishes or displays before the public or causes the publication or display before the public of any notice, sign, symbol, emblem, or other similar representation that indicates the intention of the person to infringe a right under Part I or that is intended by the person to incite the infringement of a right under Part I. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 13 (1).

Opinion

(2)  Subsection (1) shall not interfere with freedom of expression of opinion. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 13 (2).

Special programs

14.  (1)  A right under Part I is not infringed by the implementation of a special program designed to relieve hardship or economic disadvantage or to assist disadvantaged persons or groups to achieve or attempt to achieve equal opportunity or that is likely to contribute to the elimination of the infringement of rights under Part I. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 14 (1).

Application to Commission

(2)  A person may apply to the Commission for a designation of a program as a special program for the purposes of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Designation by Commission

(3)  Upon receipt of an application, the Commission may,

(a) designate the program as a special program if, in its opinion, the program meets the requirements of subsection (1); or

(b) designate the program as a special program on the condition that the program make such modifications as are specified in the designation in order to meet the requirements of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Inquiries initiated by Commission

(4)  The Commission may, on its own initiative, inquire into one or more programs to determine whether the programs are special programs for the purposes of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

End of inquiry

(5)  At the conclusion of an inquiry under subsection (4), the Commission may designate as a special program any of the programs under inquiry if, in its opinion, the programs meet the requirements of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Expiry of designation

(6)  A designation under subsection (3) or (5) expires five years after the day it is issued or at such earlier time as may be specified by the Commission. 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Renewal of designation

(7)  If an application for renewal of a designation of a program as a special program is made to the Commission before its expiry under subsection (6), the Commission may,

(a) renew the designation if, in its opinion, the program continues to meet the requirements of subsection (1); or

(b) renew the designation on the condition that the program make such modifications as are specified in the designation in order to meet the requirements of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Effect of designation, etc.

(8)  In a proceeding,

(a) evidence that a program has been designated as a special program under this section is proof, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that the program is a special program for the purposes of subsection (1); and

(b) evidence that the Commission has considered and refused to designate a program as a special program under this section is proof, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that the program is not a special program for the purposes of subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Crown programs

(9)  Subsections (2) to (8) do not apply to a program implemented by the Crown or an agency of the Crown. 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

Tribunal finding

(10)  For the purposes of a proceeding before the Tribunal, the Tribunal may make a finding that a program meets the requirements of a special program under subsection (1), even though the program has not been designated as a special program by the Commission under this section, subject to clause (8) (b). 2006, c. 30, s. 1.

14.1  Repealed: 1995, c. 4, s. 3 (1).

Age sixty-five or over

15.  A right under Part I to non-discrimination because of age is not infringed where an age of sixty-five years or over is a requirement, qualification or consideration for preferential treatment. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 15.

Canadian Citizenship

16.  (1)  A right under Part I to non-discrimination because of citizenship is not infringed where Canadian citizenship is a requirement, qualification or consideration imposed or authorized by law. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 16 (1).

Idem

(2)  A right under Part I to non-discrimination because of citizenship is not infringed where Canadian citizenship or lawful admission to Canada for permanent residence is a requirement, qualification or consideration adopted for the purpose of fostering and developing participation in cultural, educational, trade union or athletic activities by Canadian citizens or persons lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 16 (2).

Idem

(3)  A right under Part I to non-discrimination because of citizenship is not infringed where Canadian citizenship or domicile in Canada with the intention to obtain Canadian citizenship is a requirement, qualification or consideration adopted by an organization or enterprise for the holder of chief or senior executive positions. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 16 (3).

Disability

17.  (1)  A right of a person under this Act is not infringed for the reason only that the person is incapable of performing or fulfilling the essential duties or requirements attending the exercise of the right because of disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 17 (1); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (5).

Accommodation

(2)  No tribunal or court shall find a person incapable unless it is satisfied that the needs of the person cannot be accommodated without undue hardship on the person responsible for accommodating those needs, considering the cost, outside sources of funding, if any, and health and safety requirements, if any. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 17 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 65 (2); 2002, c. 18, Sched. C, s. 3 (1); 2006, c. 30, s. 2 (1).

Determining if undue hardship

(3)  In determining for the purposes of subsection (2) whether there would be undue hardship, a tribunal or court shall consider any standards prescribed by the regulations. 2006, c. 30, s. 2 (2).

(4)  Repealed: 2006, c. 30, s. 2 (3).

Special interest organizations

18.  The rights under Part I to equal treatment with respect to services and facilities, with or without accommodation, are not infringed where membership or participation in a religious, philanthropic, educational, fraternal or social institution or organization that is primarily engaged in serving the interests of persons identified by a prohibited ground of discrimination is restricted to persons who are similarly identified. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 18; 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 10.

Solemnization of marriage by religious officials

18.1  (1)  The rights under Part I to equal treatment with respect to services and facilities are not infringed where a person registered under section 20 of the Marriage Act refuses to solemnize a marriage, to allow a sacred place to be used for solemnizing a marriage or for an event related to the solemnization of a marriage, or to otherwise assist in the solemnization of a marriage, if to solemnize the marriage, allow the sacred place to be used or otherwise assist would be contrary to,

(a) the person’s religious beliefs; or

(b) the doctrines, rites, usages or customs of the religious body to which the person belongs. 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (11).

Same

(2)  Nothing in subsection (1) limits the application of section 18. 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (11).

Definition

(3)  In this section,

“sacred place” includes a place of worship and any ancillary or accessory facilities. 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (11).

Separate school rights preserved

19.  (1)  This Act shall not be construed to adversely affect any right or privilege respecting separate schools enjoyed by separate school boards or their supporters under the Constitution Act, 1867 and the Education Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 19 (1).

Duties of teachers

(2)  This Act does not apply to affect the application of the Education Act with respect to the duties of teachers. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 19 (2).

Restriction of facilities by sex

20.  (1)  The right under section 1 to equal treatment with respect to services and facilities without discrimination because of sex is not infringed where the use of the services or facilities is restricted to persons of the same sex on the ground of public decency. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 20 (1).

Minimum drinking age

(2)  The right under section 1 to equal treatment with respect to services, goods and facilities without discrimination because of age is not infringed by the provisions of the Liquor Licence Act and the regulations under it relating to providing for and enforcing a minimum drinking age of nineteen years. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 20 (2).

Recreational clubs

(3)  The right under section 1 to equal treatment with respect to services and facilities is not infringed where a recreational club restricts or qualifies access to its services or facilities or gives preferences with respect to membership dues and other fees because of age, sex, marital status or family status. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 20 (3); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (9); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (12).

Tobacco and young persons

(4)  The right under section 1 to equal treatment with respect to goods without discrimination because of age is not infringed by the provisions of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and the regulations under it relating to selling or supplying tobacco to persons who are, or who appear to be, under the age of 19 years or 25 years, as the case may be. 1994, c. 10, s. 22; 2005, c. 18, s. 17.

Residential accommodation

Shared accommodation

21.  (1)  The right under section 2 to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of residential accommodation without discrimination is not infringed by discrimination where the residential accommodation is in a dwelling in which the owner or his or her family reside if the occupant or occupants of the residential accommodation are required to share a bathroom or kitchen facility with the owner or family of the owner. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 21 (1).

Restrictions on accommodation, sex

(2)  The right under section 2 to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of residential accommodation without discrimination because of sex is not infringed by discrimination on that ground where the occupancy of all the residential accommodation in the building, other than the accommodation, if any, of the owner or family of the owner, is restricted to persons who are of the same sex. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 21 (2).

Prescribing business practices

(3)  The right under section 2 to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of residential accommodation without discrimination is not infringed if a landlord uses in the manner prescribed under this Act income information, credit checks, credit references, rental history, guarantees or other similar business practices which are prescribed in the regulations made under this Act in selecting prospective tenants. 1997, c. 24, s. 212 (1).

Restrictions for insurance contracts, etc.

22.  The right under sections 1 and 3 to equal treatment with respect to services and to contract on equal terms, without discrimination because of age, sex, marital status, family status or disability, is not infringed where a contract of automobile, life, accident or sickness or disability insurance or a contract of group insurance between an insurer and an association or person other than an employer, or a life annuity, differentiates or makes a distinction, exclusion or preference on reasonable and bona fide grounds because of age, sex, marital status, family status or disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 22; 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (10); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (5); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (13).

Employment

23.  (1)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment is infringed where an invitation to apply for employment or an advertisement in connection with employment is published or displayed that directly or indirectly classifies or indicates qualifications by a prohibited ground of discrimination. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 23 (1).

Application for employment

(2)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment is infringed where a form of application for employment is used or a written or oral inquiry is made of an applicant that directly or indirectly classifies or indicates qualifications by a prohibited ground of discrimination. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 23 (2).

Questions at interview

(3)  Nothing in subsection (2) precludes the asking of questions at a personal employment interview concerning a prohibited ground of discrimination where discrimination on such ground is permitted under this Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 23 (3).

Employment agencies

(4)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment is infringed where an employment agency discriminates against a person because of a prohibited ground of discrimination in receiving, classifying, disposing of or otherwise acting upon applications for its services or in referring an applicant or applicants to an employer or agent of an employer. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 23 (4).

Special employment

24.  (1)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment is not infringed where,

(a) a religious, philanthropic, educational, fraternal or social institution or organization that is primarily engaged in serving the interests of persons identified by their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, creed, sex, age, marital status or disability employs only, or gives preference in employment to, persons similarly identified if the qualification is a reasonable and bona fide qualification because of the nature of the employment;

(b) the discrimination in employment is for reasons of age, sex, record of offences or marital status if the age, sex, record of offences or marital status of the applicant is a reasonable and bona fide qualification because of the nature of the employment;

(c) an individual person refuses to employ another for reasons of any prohibited ground of discrimination in section 5, where the primary duty of the employment is attending to the medical or personal needs of the person or of an ill child or an aged, infirm or ill spouse or other relative of the person;

(d) an employer grants or withholds employment or advancement in employment to a person who is the spouse, child or parent of the employer or an employee;

(e) a judge or master is required to retire or cease to continue in office on reaching a specified age under the Courts of Justice Act;

(f) a case management master is required to retire on reaching a specified age under the Courts of Justice Act;

(g) the term of reappointment of a case management master expires on the case management master reaching a specified age under the Courts of Justice Act; or

(h) a justice of the peace is required to retire on reaching a specified age under the Justices of the Peace Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 24 (1); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (11); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (5); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (14); 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (2).

Reasonable accommodation

(2)  No tribunal or court shall find that a qualification under clause (1) (b) is reasonable and bona fide unless it is satisfied that the circumstances of the person cannot be accommodated without undue hardship on the person responsible for accommodating those circumstances considering the cost, outside sources of funding, if any, and health and safety requirements, if any. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 24 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 65 (4); 2002, c. 18, Sched. C, s. 4 (1); 2006, c. 30, s. 3 (1).

Determining if undue hardship

(3)  In determining for the purposes of subsection (2) whether there would be undue hardship, a tribunal or court shall consider any standards prescribed by the regulations. 2006, c. 30, s. 3 (2).

Same

(4)  Clauses 24 (1) (e), (f), (g) and (h) shall not be interpreted to suggest that a judge, master, case management master or justice of the peace is an employee for the purposes of this Act or any other Act or law. 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (3).

24.1  Repealed:  1995, c. 4, s. 3 (2).

Employee benefit and pension plans

25.  (1)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment is infringed where employment is denied or made conditional because a term or condition of employment requires enrolment in an employee benefit, pension or superannuation plan or fund or a contract of group insurance between an insurer and an employer, that makes a distinction, preference or exclusion on a prohibited ground of discrimination. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 25 (1).

Same

(2)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination because of sex, marital status or family status is not infringed by an employee superannuation or pension plan or fund or a contract of group insurance between an insurer and an employer that complies with the Employment Standards Act, 2000 and the regulations thereunder. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 25 (2); 1999, c. 6, s. 28 (12); 2005, c. 5, s. 32 (15); 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (4).

Same

(2.1)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination because of age is not infringed by an employee benefit, pension, superannuation or group insurance plan or fund that complies with the Employment Standards Act, 2000 and the regulations thereunder. 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (5).

Same

(2.2)  Subsection (2.1) applies whether or not a plan or fund is the subject of a contract of insurance between an insurer and an employer. 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (5).

Same

(2.3)  For greater certainty, subsections (2) and (2.1) apply whether or not “age”, “sex” or “marital status” in the Employment Standards Act, 2000 or the regulations under it have the same meaning as those terms have in this Act. 2005, c. 29, s. 1 (5).

Same

(3)  The right under section 5 to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination because of disability is not infringed,

(a) where a reasonable and bona fide distinction, exclusion or preference is made in an employee disability or life insurance plan or benefit because of a pre-existing disability that substantially increases the risk;

(b) where a reasonable and bona fide distinction, exclusion or preference is made on the ground of a pre-existing disability in respect of an employee-pay-all or participant-pay-all benefit in an employee benefit, pension or superannuation plan or fund or a contract of group insurance between an insurer and an employer or in respect of a plan, fund or policy that is offered by an employer to employees if they are fewer than twenty-five in number. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 25 (3); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (5).

Compensation

(4)  An employer shall pay to an employee who is excluded because of a disability from an employee benefit, pension or superannuation plan or fund or a contract of group insurance between an insurer and the employer compensation equivalent to the contribution that the employer would make thereto on behalf of an employee who does not have a disability. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 25 (4); 2001, c. 32, s. 27 (5).

Discrimination in employment under government contracts

26.  (1)  It shall be deemed to be a condition of every contract entered into by or on behalf of the Crown or any agency thereof and of every subcontract entered into in the performance thereof that no right under section 5 will be infringed in the course of performing the contract. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 26 (1).

Idem: government grants and loans

(2)  It shall be deemed to be a condition of every grant, contribution, loan or guarantee made by or on behalf of the Crown or any agency thereof that no right under section 5 will be infringed in the course of carrying out the purposes for which the grant, contribution, loan or guarantee was made. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 26 (2).

Sanction

(3)  Where an infringement of a right under section 5 is found by the Tribunal upon a complaint and constitutes a breach of a condition under this section, the breach of condition is sufficient grounds for cancellation of the contract, grant, contribution, loan or guarantee and refusal to enter into any further contract with or make any further grant, contribution, loan or guarantee to the same person. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, s. 26 (3); 2002, c. 18, Sched. C, s. 5.

PART III
THE ONTARIO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

The Commission

27.  (1)  The Ontario Human Rights Commission is continued under the name Ontario Human Rights Commission in English and Commission ontarienne des droits de la personne in French. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Composition

(2)  The Commission shall be composed of such persons as are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Appointment

(3)  Every person appointed to the Commission shall have knowledge, experience or training with respect to human rights law and issues. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Criteria

(4)  In the appointment of persons to the Commission under subsection (2), the importance of reflecting, in the composition of the Commission as a whole, the diversity of Ontario’s population shall be recognized. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Chief Commissioner

(5)  The Lieutenant Governor in Council shall designate a member of the Commission as Chief Commissioner. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Powers and duties of Chief Commissioner

(6)  The Chief Commissioner shall direct the Commission and exercise the powers and perform the duties assigned to the Chief Commissioner by or under this Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Term of office

(7)  The Chief Commissioner and other members of the Commission shall hold office for such term as may be specified by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Remuneration

(8)  The Chief Commissioner and other members of the Commission shall be paid such remuneration and allowance for expenses as are fixed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Employees

(9)  The Commission may appoint such employees as it considers necessary for the proper conduct of its affairs and the employees shall be appointed under Part III of the Public Service of Ontario Act, 2006. 2006, c. 30, s. 4; 2006, c. 35, Sched. C, s. 132 (5).

Evidence obtained in performance of duties

(10)  A member of the Commission shall not be required to give testimony in a civil suit or any proceeding as to information obtained in the performance of duties under this Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Same, employees

(11)  An employee of the Commission shall not be required to give testimony in a civil suit or any proceeding other than a proceeding under this Act as to information obtained in the performance of duties under this Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Delegation

(12)  The Chief Commissioner may in writing delegate any of his or her powers, duties or functions under this Act to any member of the Anti-Racism Secretariat, the Disability Rights Secretariat or an advisory group or to any other member of the Commission, subject to such conditions as the Chief Commissioner may set out in the delegation. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Divisions

(13)  The Commission may authorize any function of the Commission to be performed by a division of the Commission composed of at least three members of the Commission. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Acting Chief Commissioner

28.  (1)  If the Chief Commissioner dies, resigns or is unable or neglects to perform his or her duties, the Lieutenant Governor in Council may appoint an Acting Chief Commissioner to hold office for such period as may be specified in the appointment. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Same

(2)  An Acting Chief Commissioner shall perform the duties and have the powers of the Chief Commissioner and shall be paid such remuneration and allowance for expenses as are fixed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Functions of Commission

29.  The functions of the Commission are to promote and advance respect for human rights in Ontario, to protect human rights in Ontario and, recognizing that it is in the public interest to do so and that it is the Commission’s duty to protect the public interest, to identify and promote the elimination of discriminatory practices and, more specifically,

(a) to forward the policy that the dignity and worth of every person be recognized and that equal rights and opportunities be provided without discrimination that is contrary to law;

(b) to develop and conduct programs of public information and education to,

(i) promote awareness and understanding of, respect for and compliance with this Act, and

(ii) prevent and eliminate discriminatory practices that infringe rights under Part I;

(c) to undertake, direct and encourage research into discriminatory practices and to make recommendations designed to prevent and eliminate such discriminatory practices;

(d) to examine and review any statute or regulation, and any program or policy made by or under a statute, and make recommendations on any provision, program or policy that in its opinion is inconsistent with the intent of this Act;

(e) to initiate reviews and inquiries into incidents of tension or conflict, or conditions that lead or may lead to incidents of tension or conflict, in a community, institution, industry or sector of the economy, and to make recommendations, and encourage and co-ordinate plans, programs and activities, to reduce or prevent such incidents or sources of tension or conflict;

(f) to promote, assist and encourage public, municipal or private agencies, organizations, groups or persons to engage in programs to alleviate tensions and conflicts based upon identification by a prohibited ground of discrimination;

(g) to designate programs as special programs in accordance with section 14;

(h) to approve policies under section 30;

(i) to make applications to the Tribunal under section 35;

(j) to report to the people of Ontario on the state of human rights in Ontario and on its affairs;

(k) to perform the functions assigned to the Commission under this or any other Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Commission policies

30.  The Commission may approve policies prepared and published by the Commission to provide guidance in the application of Parts I and II. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Inquiries

31.  (1)  The Commission may conduct an inquiry under this section for the purpose of carrying out its functions under this Act if the Commission believes it is in the public interest to do so. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Conduct of inquiry

(2)  An inquiry may be conducted under this section by any person who is appointed by the Commission to carry out inquiries under this section. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Production of certificate

(3)  A person conducting an inquiry under this section shall produce proof of their appointment upon request. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Entry

(4)  A person conducting an inquiry under this section may, without warrant, enter any lands or any building, structure or premises where the person has reason to believe there may be documents, things or information relevant to the inquiry. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Time of entry

(5)  The power to enter a place under subsection (4) may be exercised only during the place’s regular business hours or, if it does not have regular business hours, during daylight hours. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Dwellings

(6)  A person conducting an inquiry under this section shall not enter into a place or part of a place that is a dwelling without the consent of the occupant. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Powers on inquiry

(7)  A person conducting an inquiry may,

(a) request the production for inspection and examination of documents or things that are or may be relevant to the inquiry;

(b) upon giving a receipt for it, remove from a place documents produced in response to a request under clause (a) for the purpose of making copies or extracts;

(c) question a person on matters that are or may be relevant to the inquiry, subject to the person’s right to have counsel or a personal representative present during such questioning and exclude from the questioning any person who may be adverse in interest to the inquiry;

(d) use any data storage, processing or retrieval device or system used in carrying on business in the place in order to produce a document in readable form;

(e) take measurements or record by any means the physical dimensions of a place;

(f) take photographs, video recordings or other visual or audio recordings of the interior or exterior of a place; and

(g) require that a place or part thereof not be disturbed for a reasonable period of time for the purposes of carrying out an examination, inquiry or test. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Written demand

(8)  A demand that a document or thing be produced must be in writing and must include a statement of the nature of the document or thing required. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Assistance

(9)  A person conducting an inquiry may be accompanied by any person who has special, expert or professional knowledge and who may be of assistance in carrying out the inquiry. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Use of force prohibited

(10)  A person conducting an inquiry shall not use force to enter and search premises under this section. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Obligation to produce and assist

(11)  A person who is requested to produce a document or thing under clause (7) (a) shall produce it and shall, on request by the person conducting the inquiry, provide any assistance that is reasonably necessary, including assistance in using any data storage, processing or retrieval device or system, to produce a document in readable form. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Return of removed things

(12)  A person conducting an inquiry who removes any document or thing from a place under clause (7) (b) shall,

(a) make it available to the person from whom it was removed, on request, at a time and place convenient for both that person and the person conducting the inquiry; and

(b) return it to the person from whom it was removed within a reasonable time. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Admissibility of copies

(13)  A copy of a document certified by a person conducting an inquiry to be a true copy of the original is admissible in evidence to the same extent as the original and has the same evidentiary value. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Obstruction

(14)  No person shall obstruct or interfere with a person conducting an inquiry under this section. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Search warrant

31.1  (1)  The Commission may authorize a person to apply to a justice of the peace for a warrant to enter a place and conduct a search of the place if,

(a) a person conducting an inquiry under section 31 has been denied entry to any place or asked to leave a place before concluding a search;

(b) a person conducting an inquiry under section 31 made a request for documents or things and the request was refused; or

(c) an inquiry under section 31 is otherwise obstructed or prevented. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Same

(2)  Upon application by a person authorized under subsection (1) to do so, a justice of the peace may issue a warrant under this section if he or she is satisfied on information under oath or affirmation that the warrant is necessary for the purposes of carrying out the inquiry under section 31. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Powers

(3)  A warrant obtained under subsection (2) may authorize a person named in the warrant, upon producing proof of his or her appointment,

(a) to enter any place specified in the warrant, including a dwelling; and

(b) to do any of the things specified in the warrant. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Conditions on search warrant

(4)  A warrant obtained under subsection (2) shall contain such conditions as the justice of the peace considers advisable to ensure that any search authorized by the warrant is reasonable in the circumstances. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Time of execution

(5)  An entry under a warrant issued under this section shall be made at such reasonable times as may be specified in the warrant. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Expiry of warrant

(6)  A warrant issued under this section shall name a date of expiry, which shall be no later than 15 days after the warrant is issued, but a justice of the peace may extend the date of expiry for an additional period of no more than 15 days, upon application without notice by the person named in the warrant. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Use of force

(7)  The person authorized to execute the warrant may call upon police officers for assistance in executing the warrant and the person may use whatever force is reasonably necessary to execute the warrant. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Obstruction prohibited

(8)  No person shall obstruct or hinder a person in the execution of a warrant issued under this section. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Application

(9)  Subsections 31 (11), (12) and (13) apply with necessary modifications to an inquiry carried out pursuant to a warrant issued under this section. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Evidence used in Tribunal proceedings

31.2  Despite any other Act, evidence obtained on an inquiry under section 31 or 31.1 may be received into evidence in a proceeding before the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Anti-Racism Secretariat

31.3  (1)  The Chief Commissioner directs the Anti-Racism Secretariat which shall be established in accordance with subsection (2). 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Composition

(2)  The Anti-Racism Secretariat shall be composed of not more than six persons appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council on the advice of the Chief Commissioner. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Remuneration

(3)  The Lieutenant Governor in Council may fix the remuneration and allowance for expenses of the members of the Anti-Racism Secretariat. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Functions of the Secretariat

(4)  At the direction of the Chief Commissioner, the Anti-Racism Secretariat shall,

(a) undertake, direct and encourage research into discriminatory practices that infringe rights under Part I on the basis of racism or a related ground and make recommendations to the Commission designed to prevent and eliminate such discriminatory practices;

(b) facilitate the development and provision of programs of public information and education relating to the elimination of racism; and

(c) undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Chief Commissioner. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Disability Rights Secretariat

31.4  (1)  The Chief Commissioner directs the Disability Rights Secretariat which shall be established in accordance with subsection (2). 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Composition

(2)  The Disability Rights Secretariat shall be composed of not more than six persons appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council on the advice of the Chief Commissioner. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Remuneration

(3)  The Lieutenant Governor in Council may fix the remuneration and allowance for expenses of the members of the Disability Rights Secretariat. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Functions of the Secretariat

(4)  At the direction of the Chief Commissioner, the Disability Rights Secretariat shall,

(a) undertake, direct and encourage research into discriminatory practices that infringe rights under Part I on the basis of disability and make recommendations to the Commission designed to prevent and eliminate such discriminatory practices;

(b) facilitate the development and provision of programs of public information and education intended to promote the elimination of discriminatory practices that infringe rights under Part I on the basis of disability; and

(c) undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Chief Commissioner. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Advisory groups

31.5  The Chief Commissioner may establish such advisory groups as he or she considers appropriate to advise the Commission about the elimination of discriminatory practices that infringe rights under this Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Annual report

31.6  (1)  Every year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report on the affairs of the Commission that occurred during the 12-month period ending on March 31 of each year. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Report to Speaker

(2)  The Commission shall submit the report to the Speaker of the Assembly no later than on June 30 in each year who shall cause the report to be laid before the Assembly if it is in session or, if not, at the next session. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Copy to Minister

(3)  The Commission shall give a copy of the report to the Minister at least 30 days before it is submitted to the Speaker under subsection (2). 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

Other reports

31.7  In addition to the annual report, the Commission may make any other reports respecting the state of human rights in Ontario and the affairs of the Commission as it considers appropriate, and may present such reports to the public or any other person it considers appropriate. 2006, c. 30, s. 4.

PART IV
HUMAN RIGHTS TRIBUNAL OF ONTARIO

Tribunal

32.  (1)  The Tribunal known as the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario in English and Tribunal des droits de la personne de l’Ontario in French is continued. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Composition

(2)  The Tribunal shall be composed of such members as are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council in accordance with the selection process described in subsection (3). 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Selection process

(3)  The selection process for the appointment of members of the Tribunal shall be a competitive process and the criteria to be applied in assessing candidates shall include the following:

1. Experience, knowledge or training with respect to human rights law and issues.

2. Aptitude for impartial adjudication.

3. Aptitude for applying the alternative adjudicative practices and procedures that may be set out in the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Remuneration

(4)  The members of the Tribunal shall be paid such remuneration and allowance for expenses as are fixed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Term of office

(5)  A member of the Tribunal shall be appointed for such term as may be specified by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Chair, vice-chair

(6)  The Lieutenant Governor in Council shall appoint a chair and may appoint one or more vice-chairs of the Tribunal from among the members of the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Alternate chair

(7)  The Lieutenant Governor in Council shall designate one of the vice-chairs to be the alternate chair. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Same

(8)  If the chair is unable to act, the alternate chair shall perform the duties of the chair and, for this purpose, has all the powers of the chair. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Employees

(9)  The Tribunal may appoint such employees as it considers necessary for the proper conduct of its affairs and the employees shall be appointed under Part III of the Public Service of Ontario Act, 2006. 2006, c. 30, s. 5; 2006, c. 35, Sched. C, s. 132 (6).

Evidence obtained in course of proceeding

(10)  A member or employee of the Tribunal shall not be required to give testimony in a civil suit or any proceeding as to information obtained in the course of a proceeding before the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Same

(11)  Despite subsection (10), an employee of the Tribunal may be required to give testimony in a proceeding before the Tribunal in the circumstances prescribed by the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Panels

33.  (1)  The chair of the Tribunal may appoint panels composed of one or more members of the Tribunal to exercise and perform the powers and duties of the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Person designated to preside over panel

(2)  If a panel of the Tribunal holds a hearing, the chair of the Tribunal shall designate one member of the panel to preside over the hearing. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Reassignment of panel

(3)  If a panel of the Tribunal is unable for any reason to exercise or perform the powers or duties of the Tribunal, the chair of the Tribunal may assign another panel in its place. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Application by person

34.  (1)  If a person believes that any of his or her rights under Part I have been infringed, the person may apply to the Tribunal for an order under section 45.2,

(a) within one year after the incident to which the application relates; or

(b) if there was a series of incidents, within one year after the last incident in the series. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Late applications

(2)  A person may apply under subsection (1) after the expiry of the time limit under that subsection if the Tribunal is satisfied that the delay was incurred in good faith and no substantial prejudice will result to any person affected by the delay. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Form

(3)  An application under subsection (1) shall be in a form approved by the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Two or more persons

(4)  Two or more persons who are each entitled to make an application under subsection (1) may file the applications jointly, subject to any provision in the Tribunal rules that authorizes the Tribunal to direct that one or more of the applications be considered in a separate proceeding. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Application on behalf of another

(5)  A person or organization, other than the Commission, may apply on behalf of another person to the Tribunal for an order under section 45.2 if the other person,

(a) would have been entitled to bring an application under subsection (1); and

(b) consents to the application. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Participation in proceedings

(6)  If a person or organization makes an application on behalf of another person, the person or organization may participate in the proceeding in accordance with the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Consent form

(7)  A consent under clause (5) (b) shall be in a form specified in the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Time of application

(8)  An application under subsection (5) shall be made within the time period required for making an application under subsection (1). 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Application

(9)  Subsections (2) and (3) apply to an application made under subsection (5). 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Withdrawal of application

(10)  An application under subsection (5) may be withdrawn by the person on behalf of whom the application is made in accordance with the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Where application barred

(11)  A person who believes that one of his or her rights under Part I has been infringed may not make an application under subsection (1) with respect to that right if,

(a) a civil proceeding has been commenced in a court in which the person is seeking an order under section 46.1 with respect to the alleged infringement and the proceeding has not been finally determined or withdrawn; or

(b) a court has finally determined the issue of whether the right has been infringed or the matter has been settled. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Final determination

(12)  For the purpose of subsection (11), a proceeding or issue has not been finally determined if a right of appeal exists and the time for appealing has not expired. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Application by Commission

35.  (1)  The Commission may apply to the Tribunal for an order under section 45.3 if the Commission is of the opinion that,

(a) it is in the public interest to make an application; and

(b) an order under section 45.3 could provide an appropriate remedy. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Form

(2)  An application under subsection (1) shall be in a form approved by the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Effect of application

(3)  An application made by the Commission does not affect the right of a person to make an application under section 34 in respect of the same matter. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Applications dealt with together

(4)  If a person or organization makes an application under section 34 and the Commission makes an application under this section in respect of the same matter, the two applications shall be dealt with together in the same proceeding unless the Tribunal determines otherwise. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Parties

36.  The parties to an application under section 34 or 35 are the following:

1. In the case of an application under subsection 34 (1), the person who made the application.

2. In the case of an application under subsection 34 (5), the person on behalf of whom the application is made.

3. In the case of an application under section 35, the Commission.

4. Any person against whom an order is sought in the application.

5. Any other person or the Commission, if they are added as a party by the Tribunal. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Intervention by Commission

37.  (1)  The Commission may intervene in an application under section 34 on such terms as the Tribunal may determine having regard to the role and mandate of the Commission under this Act. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Intervention as a party

(2)  The Commission may intervene as a party to an application under section 34 if the person or organization who made the application consents to the intervention as a party. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Disclosure of information to Commission

38.  Despite anything in the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, at the request of the Commission, the Tribunal shall disclose to the Commission copies of applications and responses filed with the Tribunal and may disclose to the Commission other documents in its custody or in its control. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Powers of Tribunal

39.  The Tribunal has the jurisdiction to exercise the powers conferred on it by or under this Act and to determine all questions of fact or law that arise in any application before it. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Disposition of applications

40.  The Tribunal shall dispose of applications made under this Part by adopting the procedures and practices provided for in its rules or otherwise available to the Tribunal which, in its opinion, offer the best opportunity for a fair, just and expeditious resolution of the merits of the applications. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Interpretation of Part and rules

41.  This Part and the Tribunal rules shall be liberally construed to permit the Tribunal to adopt practices and procedures, including alternatives to traditional adjudicative or adversarial procedures that, in the opinion of the Tribunal, will facilitate fair, just and expeditious resolutions of the merits of the matters before it. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Statutory Powers Procedure Act

42.  (1)  The provisions of the Statutory Powers Procedure Act apply to a proceeding before the Tribunal unless they conflict with a provision of this Act, the regulations or the Tribunal rules. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Conflict

(2)  Despite section 32 of the Statutory Powers Procedure Act, this Act, the regulations and the Tribunal rules prevail over the provisions of that Act with which they conflict. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Tribunal rules

43.  (1)  The Tribunal may make rules governing the practice and procedure before it. 2006, c. 30, s. 5.

Required practices and procedures