British Columbia's whistleblower legislation is reportedly insufficient, according to the Ombudsperson.
The British Columbia (BC) Ombudsperson Jay Chalke has proposed a significant expansion of public bodies protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA). The proposed changes aim to extend protection to an additional 500 public bodies, including various provincial agencies, boards, commissions, health authorities, school districts, and local public entities in British Columbia.
The BC Ombudsperson's office has recommended 38 amendments to the whistleblower legislation in the province. These changes seek to address areas where the current law has been falling short, as indicated in the Ombudsperson's reports.
However, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of training for staff responsible for receiving complaints and disclosures under the whistleblower law in British Columbia. Many public sector employees are not aware of the legal protection afforded to them by the law.
The PIDA, introduced in 2019, is currently under review in British Columbia. The Act is intended to protect workers who report serious wrongdoing without fear of reprisal, ensuring safe reporting and meaningful investigations.
Meanwhile, other news from across Canada and beyond:
- Mélanie Joly has announced Canada's defence industrial strategy.
- Ukrainian newcomers in Canada are expressing caution as US President Donald Trump seeks talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford has responded to Trump's expansion of steel and aluminum tariffs, stating that "We aren't going to kiss his backside."
- A convicted Canadian terrorist is reportedly living in a "townhouse-style" prison, but the specific name of the facility remains undisclosed.
- Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, has expressed no surprise over the GOP's lawsuit to block the redistricting plan.
- In a separate development, an Ontario man is facing charges after allegedly assaulting a home intruder, according to police reports.
- A Texas Democrat is sleeping in the House chamber in protest of the GOP police escort.
- Ukraine is hopeful that Canada will "actively" be part of a future security guarantee.
In a separate development, Pierre Poilievre, without further specification, has expressed his joy at being back in action after his byelection win.
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- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
