This briefing note discusses how criminals can hide their identity behind secret companies, which harms the Canadian economy, particularly Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs). We propose a policy mechanism to deter bad actors from using secret companies to facilitate the proceeds of crime. This policy solution would alleviate administrative and regulatory due diligence costs for SMEs.
Western Canada Corruption Barometer The Public’s Perspective
This survey provides a broad examination of the issue of corruption in Western Canada, producing results that should generate concern and contribute to deeper investigation. A more intensive analysis is required to determine where different sectors are vulnerable to corruption and where greater transparency is necessary – work that could proceed along the lines of TI Canada’s Mining for Sustainable Development Program.
Western Canada Corruption Barometer The Extractive Sector – Executives’ Perspective
Transparency International Canada (TI Canada) contracted Leger to survey Western Canadians’ – British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan – perceptions of and experiences with corruption. The objective of the survey was to understand Western Canadians’ experiences with bribery and corruption and determine their engagement and willingness to fight against corruption. The results of the study are published in the accompanying report, Western Canada Corruption Barometer: The Public’s Perspective.
Another Arrow in the Quiver? Consideration of a Deferred Prosecution Agreement Scheme in Canada
A Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) is a tool that allows prosecutors to enter into negotiations with an accused. Should DPAs be adopted in Canada, Transparency International Canada believes it is crucial to take precautions to avoid perceived pitfalls experienced in the United States. For a DPA scheme to be effective, it should be enacted through specific legislation, carried out under transparent judicial purview and include specific measures aimed at the following objectives: 1) financial reparations; 2) sincere compliance reform; and 3) accountability of individual wrongdoers. However, DPAs must not be seen as a simple cost of doing business. Additionally, they must not be treated by government as a stand-alone measure in the fight against corporate crime. The debate on a potential DPA scheme should be part of a greater reflection on the state of corporate criminality in Canada and serve as the opportunity to invest the resources required by law enforcement, prosecutors and the judiciary to efficiently combat corporate crime.
Transparency International Canada: Report on Whistleblower Protections in Canada
This report was prepared for the TI-Canada Legal Committee to assist it in better understanding the state of whistleblower protection in Canada as compared to other jurisdictions and the extent to which different whistleblower protection mechanisms could effectively support the battle against corruption.
