January to May

The CBA recommends that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the Canadian Border Services Agency expand the application of Administrative Deferrals of Removals.

The CBA commends the government's Innovation Agenda. Competitive intensity fosters innovation. Policy should favour open markets. Regulations should not impede the ability of market participants to capitalize on innovation-enhancing opportunities.

The CBA plans to comment on proposed changes to GST/HST.

The CBA says that the approach in the government's discussion paper is a step toward decriminalization of marijuana, but falls short of the promised legalization.

The CBA proposes changes to immigration policy and implementation affecting temporary residents who remain in Canada on Implied Status (IS) and persons granted conditional permanent residence.

The CBA condemns the killings and suicide bombing in Quetta, Pakistan. The bombing specifically targeted lawyers gathered to mourn a slain colleague who spoke out against recent killings. The independence of lawyers is fundamental to the rule of law.

The Joint Canadian Bar Association/Canadian Professional Accountants of Canada Taxation Committee gives its views to Finance Canada on proposed Income Tax Act amendments to the small business deduction and transfer of life insurance policies.

The CBA writes to Public Works and Government Services Canada to express its concerns with the Government of Canada's Relocation Support Services Integrated Relocation Program.

The CBA comments on GST/HST voluntary disclosures and provides suggestions for improving the Canada Revenue Agency's voluntary disclosures program.

The CBA urges the government to respect regional representation on the Supreme Court of Canada.