Appeals court upholds confidentiality principles

The Ontario Court of Appeal has issued a ruling that will reassure parties involved in confidential mediation and settlement talks that sensitive information disclosed during those proceedings won’t become puble […]

Government settlements can remain confidential

The Ontario Court of Appeal rules that confidential mediation and settlement records involving a government institution must not be disclosed under Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Duty to consult with First Nations: A municipal obligation?

The Canadian federal government and all provincial governments have a duty to consult with the First Nations before taking any steps that may infringe on aboriginal or treaty rights which are claimed or have been established. The case law on this point is clear. What isn’t so clear is whether the duty to consult with the First Nations applies to municipalities when making land-use or other decisions that may impact these rights.

Putting new municipal accountability measures into action

Major amendments to the Municipal Act, 2001 took effect on January 1, 2007. One of the key changes was the introduction of accountability provisions that give municipalities the power to create new positions to help ensure that good governance is maintained by local council and boards.