Commissioner of Canada Elections Annual Report 2021 Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
Ongoing Work Related to the 2021 Federal General Election
A significant number of files that were received during the 2021 general election remain under review and investigation. The CCE is also continuing to receive complaints from Canadians and referrals from Elections Canada. Legislative timelines – particularly those related to political financing – also mean that referrals from Elections Canada may be received for several years after the election period.
Refining the Administrative Monetary Penalties Regime
The imposition of AMPs has shown to be an efficient alternative to address compliance issues. With the implementation of the AMP regime completed, the CCE will continue to adjust its processes to support the execution of this compliance measure. Internal procedures will also be analyzed to ensure the regime is the most efficient possible.
Continued Electoral Readiness
Historically, the tenure of minority governments in Canada fall short of the four-year fixed term set out in the Act. The CCE will continue to build its readiness capabilities in order to ensure it is prepared for an electoral event prior to 2025.
Following each general election, the CCE evaluates its action plan and draws lessons from events arising out of the election that can be applied in the years to come. The CCE also analyzes the public environment and engages in discussions with stakeholders to better understand arising electoral issues in other jurisdictions. Keeping up to date with new trends ensures that the CCE has the tools and knowledge in place to anticipate risk and address challenges before the next federal election.
Preparing for a New Commissioner
The 10–year term of the current Commissioner expires at the end of June 2022. The CEO is responsible for appointing a new CCE, in consultation with the Director of Public Prosecutions. The process to select a new Commissioner was launched in the fall of 2021. At the time of publication of this report, the announcement of a new Commissioner was anticipated for the spring of 2022.
The Office is actively preparing for this change and looks forward to welcoming the new Commissioner.