Appeal Board
The theme of this year’s annual report is “regulating the professions, protecting the public.” The Appeal Board and APEGA staff have worked to ensure that the board and APEGA achieve their mandates. In addition to case hearings in 2024, the board met to review policies and processes and examine how these relate to the work of the Investigative Committee, the Discipline Committee, the Practice Review Board, and the Board of Examiners, as each works to meet APEGA’s regulatory requirements and protect the public interest. Board meetings included reviews of appeal time frames, significant decision outcomes, planned legislative and administrative changes, and changes to procedures. Discussions also reviewed virtual hearings and direction on dealing with technical issues that board members, respondents, and appellants may encounter prior to and during hearings. The board further reviewed issues pertinent to appeals, including relevant case law and the professions’ mandate to protect the public interest. Appeal panels are formed from a list of board members who are available for the date of a specific hearing. Panels include a chair, three other board members who are APEGA registrants, and the public member. Whether appeals are written or in person, the Appeal Board typically uses reasonableness as the appropriate standard of review. A review of appeal cases indicates that applicants, registrants, and permit-holding companies should read documents and instructions carefully, listen attentively to aural communications, write letters and reports clearly, maintain organized and accessible records, develop clear written contracts and scope-of-work details where applicable, and maintain clear and current Professional Practice Management Plans. These measures help prevent complaints and charges of unprofessional conduct, or disappointment and dismay at not meeting professional credentialing requirements, and, most importantly, serve to protect the public interest. Should registrants need assistance in meeting professional responsibilities and expectations, they are encouraged to contact APEGA. APEGA and the Appeal Board have met and continue to meet the responsibilities of self-regulation and serve the public interest well.
Harold Neth Public Member
55 60
apega.ca
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