The new feature fulfills one of Canada’s obligations under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement
The Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) announced a new online commenting feature allowing the public to submit comments on proposed regulations published in the Canada Gazette before they become official.
According to the PSPC, the new feature is part of the Canada Gazette’s ongoing efforts to evolve into a modern, digital publication and fulfills one of Canada’s obligations under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. It also meets Canada’s and international accessibility standards to ensure that all Canadians can participate in the legislative and regulatory process.
The online commenting feature was available for a sample of proposed regulations as early as April 2021. But as of September 27, it is now available for all proposed regulations published in Part I of the Canada Gazette.
“The opportunity to provide online comments on proposed regulations is an important step in modernizing the Canada Gazette and embracing how Canadians want to make their voice heard on government decisions,” Minister of Public Services and Procurement Helena Jaczek said.
The PSPC confirmed that comments on every proposed regulation, whether received through the new feature or other means, will be available for public viewing once the consultation period is over.
“Making these comments publicly available will further increase transparency and accountability, generating a better understanding of regulatory concerns and challenges for Canadians and stakeholders,” Jaczek said.
