The Canadian Federal Modern Slavery Act

An introduction from co-chairs of the All-Party Parliamentary Group to End Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking

Event Overview

The University of Ottawa Professional Development Institute in collaboration with International Commission of Jurists, Canada welcomed Liberal M.P. John McKay and Senator Julie Miville-DechĂȘne, co-chairs of the All-Party Parliamentary Group to End Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking for a presentation on the historic federal Modern Slavery Act taking effect on January 1, 2024. The presentation was followed by an expert analysis of the law by a leading legal practitioner.

The Modern Slavery Act will implement Canada’s international commitment to universal human rights, develop supply chain transparency and contribute to the fight against modern slavery. The Act mandates companies to report on their efforts to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour or child labour in their supply chain, allow CBSA and the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness to impose import bans on goods and materials partially or fully produced by forced labour or child labour and issue fines to companies convicted of failing to report or produce a false or misleading statements.

This virtual event was in partnership with the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), Canada.

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About the International Commission of Jurists Canada

ICJ Canada is a registered charity with members from the legal community and the public and has been promoting the rule of law, human rights, and independence of the judiciary since 1958. To join as supporters from across Canada and support our work through donations, please visit the ICJ Canada website. All donations come with an official charitable tax receipt for the full amount.

This session is eligible for substantive hours recognized by the Law Society of Ontario. To know more, visit: https://lso.ca/home

Watch the event

 

10:00 AM

MP John McKay will present on the process of the law through the House of Commons

10:10 AM Senator Julie Miville-DechĂȘne will present on the Senate’s passing of the law in the Senate. Professor Errol Mendes will pose questions and invite questions from the audience.

10:30 AM

The presentation by the Parliamentarians will be followed by an in-depth analysis of the law by leading legal expert, Benedict S. Wray, of the national BLG law firm.

11:30 AM

Moderator will pose questions and invite questions from the audience.

12:00 PM

Closing statements by Serge Blais and Professor Mendes