Public Policy & Government Relations
Successful companies invest in change. New governments, shifting priorities and changes of key personnel create openings for discerning companies seeking a competitive advantage. Prudent political judgment can transform risks associated with evolving economic, social and political circumstances into opportunities. Members of the Aird & Berlis Public Policy & Government Relations Group have the experience and strategic relationships to help clients successfully manage complex questions involving the creation and implementation of policy, legislation and regulations, as well as the discretionary decisions and political contours of public administration in Canada.
The lawyers and strategic advisors in our group have long-standing involvement in the public policy sphere, including key elected and appointed leadership positions and public policy involvement at all levels of government. Our relationships with officials, staff and stakeholders provide leverage to clients seeking to differentiate themselves through thoughtful engagement in government affairs.
The Aird & Berlis Public Policy & Government Relations Group is comprised of professionals from our Municipal & Land Use Planning, Energy, Corporate/Commercial, Capital Markets, Litigation and Infrastructure Groups as well as those with international, defence and security affairs experience. We advise clients on a wide variety of matters, such as land use planning and development, municipal law issues, environmental and energy issues, tribunal hearings, Indigenous governance and legal issues, public policy advice and consultation, and public-private partnerships.
Strategic participation in government affairs gives companies an edge in a competitive marketplace. We know the decision makers and can provide robust contextual analysis in areas of political or regulatory uncertainty. Rely on our advice to take advantage of change. Whether addressing a specific issue or contributing to long-term planning, our clients benefit from our expert and experienced counsel.
Contacts
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BioFull bio
Peter is a strong, tactical communicator with a track record of delivering results and achieving approvals for clients in complex regulatory and proce...
Recent Developments
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Highlights of the 2022 Federal Budget
On April 7, 2022, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland delivered Canada’s budget for 2022. Budget 2022 continues the trend established in Budget 2021 by adding significant spending initiatives, closing ... -
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Working for Workers: Understanding Bill 88 in Ontario
For employers in Ontario, the pace of change continues to gain speed. On February 28, 2022, the Ontario government introduced Bill 88, Working for Workers Act, 2022. As Bill 88 progresses through the ... -
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Licensed Producers Can’t Sweeten the Deal: AGCO Updates Standards on Inducing Cannabis Retailers
On February 8, 2022, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario announced key changes to the inducement rules in the Registrar’s Standards for Cannabis Retail Stores. -
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The Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 2010: Better Late Than Never
The much anticipated Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 2010 ("ONCA") will come into force on October 19, 2021, after receiving Royal Assent in 2010. -
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Canada’s Emergency Wage Subsidy Provides Relief to Canadian Corporations
On April 1, 2020, the Department of Finance announced the new Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy delivering a 12-week wage subsidy of up to 75% of wages paid starting March 15, 2020. -
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Canadians Doing Business in Cuba: Implications Under the Helms-Burton Act
Recent actions taken by the Trump administration will have significant implications for Canadian companies active in the Cuban market. On April 17, 2019, the U.S. government announced that it will no ... -
ArticleFord Government Focuses on Fiscal Discipline, With a Moderate Approach
Doug Ford may have declared Ontario “a place to grow,” but under his watch, one thing that won’t be growing are deficits. A range of restraint measures aim to ensure a balanced budget in four years.