Members’ Communications Policy
Members’ Communications Policy PDF (182KB)
General Principles
The Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal (the “Tribunal”) is committed to sharing information with the public and media in a timely, transparent, and accessible manner. The Tribunal does so by holding open hearings, making and publishing its decisions in a timely way, and providing the public with resources about its work (including on the Tribunal’s website).
The Tribunal makes independent and impartial decisions. This means that the Tribunal’s members will not make public statements that could reduce, even in appearance, the Tribunal’s independence, impartiality, or reputation.
Tribunal Member Obligations
Tribunal members who believe that a decision may generate media attention should inform the Chairperson as soon as possible.
A Tribunal member who is contacted by the media about their appointment, role, or work on the Tribunal must immediately inform the Tribunal’s Chairperson.
Under no circumstances is a member to publicly discuss past, current, or potential files.
Members should be cautious in their communications on all media, including social media.
In particular, members should avoid commenting on matters relating to the Tribunal’s work that could compromise public confidence in the Tribunal or that could create a reasonable apprehension of bias.
That said, where appropriate, members may discuss the Tribunal’s work in general terms and may speak about other issues relating to the administration of justice.
Before speaking at an event, Tribunal members should consider:
- the identity of the organization inviting the member to speak;
- the anticipated audience;
- the topic;
- whether the topic may concern Tribunal matters;
- whether the topic will relate to a matter of public policy or public controversy;
- the likelihood that the comments will be shared with a broader public; and
- the value of the member’s remarks in educating the intended audience.
Members should seek the Chairperson’s advice or their Conflicts of Interest Advisor if they have doubts regarding the appropriateness of accepting a speaking engagement.
Media should send interview requests to infotribunal@cart-crac.gc.ca.
Related Policies
This policy should be read with the following related Federal policies:
- The Conflict of Interest Act
- Values and Ethics Code for the Public Service
- Directive on Conflict of Interest
- Open and Accountable Government, especially Annex A, the Ethical and Policial Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders
This policy is approved on November 15, 2023, by:
Emily Crocco
Chairperson
Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal