We tend to take for granted that in Canada we are generally free to express, and to publish or broadcast, our views and opinions about almost any subject imaginable. However, it was not always this way. In early times, those who espoused views which were not in keeping with the majority, or with the … [Read more...]
When Can the Right to Freedom of Expression be Curtailed?
Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects our freedom of expression, but this freedom is not absolute. The right to express our opinions is a crucial element of a democracy. Freedom of expression is a basic characteristic of personal development. It gives us the right to … [Read more...]
The Key Provisions and Case Law Which Define Hate Speech
Within Canadian society, hate speech and the promotion of hatred is addressed at both the federal and provincial level. At the federal level, the key piece of legislation addressing this issue is the Criminal Code. Section 319(2) makes it an offence to publicly communicate statements that wilfully … [Read more...]
Building the New Jerusalem, One Clause at a Time
The Saskatchewan Bill of Rights, 1947, was landmark legislation that inaugurated a new era in Canadian law. The Bill, which contained a clear description of the rights and freedoms to be protected by the provincial government, anticipated the much better known document of the United Nations, which … [Read more...]
Bad Behaviour 4.0: Employees getting away with . . .
If an employee has been guilty of serious misconduct, habitual neglect of duty, incompetence, or conduct incompatible with his duties, or prejudicial to the employer’s business, or if he has been guilty of willful disobedience to the employer’s orders in a matter of substance, the law recognizes the … [Read more...]
Seniors – Health, Homes, and Help from the Taxman
As individuals age and medical conditions become more prevalent and significant, the need for assistance in daily activities increases. As a result, many consider moving to nursing homes, retirement homes, or smaller apartments or condos. Alternatively, some may choose to remain in their home but … [Read more...]
AI in healthcare is coming, and we need to be ready
From the alarming forecasts of tech moguls to vigorous debates on online forums, there’s a growing public discussion about the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) and how to manage its development. People often talk about AI by evoking grandiose prophecies about the future. While one … [Read more...]
BenchPress – Vol 43-6
Federal Court Translates Decision into Cree and Dene The Federal Court of Canada made history recently when it issued a judgment in the Cree and Dene languages. The case involved Councillor Whalen and the Fort McMurray No. 468 First Nation (FMFN). On January 10, 2019, a Band Council Resolution … [Read more...]
A little nudge goes a long way in increasing organ donor registrations
Each year, hundreds of Canadians die waiting for organ transplants. At the end of 2017, for example, 4,333 people were waiting for transplants; 242 of them died. Many of these deaths could be prevented if people signed their organ donor registration cards. And even though the vast majority of … [Read more...]
New & Updated Resources at CPLEA – Vol. 43-5
All resources are free and available for download on cplea.ca. We hope that this will raise awareness of the many resources that CPLEA produces to further our commitment to public legal education in Alberta. For a listing of all CPLEA resources go to: www.cplea.ca/publications In this … [Read more...]
