The Veterinary Medical Act

The Veterinary Medical Act, C.C.S.M. c. V30 (Assented to July 14, 1999) bilingual version (HTML) Table of Contents Section PART 1 DEFINITIONS 1 Definitions PART 2 PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2 Practice of veterinary medicine 3 Who may practice veterinary medicine 4 Use of titles PART 3 MANITOBA VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 5 Association 6 Council 7 By-laws 8 Duties and functions of council PART 4 REGISTRATION AND LICENSING 9 Register of members and registrar 10 Application for registration 11 Application for registration not approved 12 Appeal to council 13 Appeal to court 14 Cancellation of registration 15 Annual licence 16 Temporary registration and licence 17 Registration of veterinary technologists PART 4.1 VETERINARY CORPORATIONS 17.1 Definitions 17.2 Authority of veterinary corporation to practise 17.3 Record of veterinary corporations 17.4 Corporate permit 17.5 Business without permit prohibited 17.6 Voting agreements void 17.7 Notice of changes 17.8 Application of Act and by-laws 17.9 Suspending or cancelling permit 17.10 Alternatives to suspending or cancelling permit 17.11 Written notice of cancellation required 17.12 Holding out as a veterinary corporation 17.13 Making false representations or declarations 17.14 Council powers over members also apply to corporations 17.15 Prohibition re false advertising PART 5 DISCIPLINE PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE 18 Peer review committee COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE 19 Complaints committee 20 Complaints 21 Referral to complaints committee 21.1 Suspension of registration and licence 22 Investigation 23 Decision of complaints committee 24 Matter not resolved by mediation 25 Formal caution 26 Voluntary surrender of registration or licence 26.1 Notice to registrar of certain decisions 27 Appeals committee 28 Appeal 29 Suspension pending decision INQUIRY PANEL 30 Inquiry panel 31 Procedure 32 Hearing 33 Counsel and evidence 34 Hearings open to public 35 Investigation of other matters 36 Evidence 37 Proof of conviction 38 Witnesses 39 Hearing in absence of investigated member 40 Findings of inquiry panel 41 Orders of inquiry panel 42 Costs and fines 43 Written decision 44 Publication of decision APPEAL TO COURT 45 Appeal to Court of Appeal 46 Powers of Court on appeal 47 Stay pending appeal REINSTATEMENT 48 Reinstatement PART 6 GENERAL PROVISIONS 49 Inspectors 50 Entry of premises and inspection of records 51 Service of documents 52 Offences 53 Protection from liability 54 Repealed 55 Injunction 56 Confidentiality of information PART 7 TRANSITIONAL, REPEAL AND COMING INTO FORCE 57 Transitional: registration and licensing 58 Transitional: council continued 59 Transitional: complaints 60 Transitional: orders 61 Repeal 62 C.C.S.M. reference 63 Coming into force HER MAJESTY, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, enacts as follows: PART 1 DEFINITIONS Definitions 1 In this Act, "animal" means any creature not human; (« animal ») "association" means the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association; (« Association ») "by-laws" means the by-laws of the council made under section 7; (« règlements administratifs ») "certificate of registration" means a certificate issued by the association confirming that an individual is entered on the register; (« certificat d'inscription ») "council" means the council of the association; (« Conseil ») "employee" means an employee within the meaning of The Employment Standards Code ; (« employé ») "licence" means an annual licence to practise veterinary medicine issued under section 15; (« permis ») "licensed member" means a member who holds a licence; (« membre autorisé ») "member" means an individual who holds a certificate of registration under this Act; (« membre ») "minister" means the minister appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council to administer this Act; (« ministre ») "permit" means a document issued to a corporation under subsection 17.4(1) authorizing it to practise veterinary medicine in the province for the period specified in the permit; (« licence ») "professional service" means a service performed in the practice of veterinary medicine within the meaning of subsection 2(1), including, but not limited to, any of the specific services described in subsection 2(2); (« services professionnels ») "register" means the register established under section 9; (« registre ») "veterinary corporation" means a corporation holding a valid permit; (« société professionnelle de vétérinaires ») "veterinary technologist" means an individual who meets the requirements for registration as a veterinary technologist provided for in the by-laws. (« technologue vétérinaire ») S.M. 2013, c. 48, s. 13 ; S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 2 . PART 2 PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE Practice of veterinary medicine 2(1) The practice of veterinary medicine means the branch of knowledge that relates to maintaining the health and welfare of animals and to preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases of and injuries to animals. Included practices 2(2) Without restricting the generality of subsection (1), a person who does any of the following engages in the practice of veterinary medicine within the meaning of this Act: (a) prescribes or dispenses a drug, veterinary biologic, medicine, appliance or treatment of whatever nature for an animal; (b) administers a drug, veterinary biologic, medicine, appliance or treatment of whatever nature to an animal; (c) performs a surgical operation on an animal; (d) performs any procedure for the diagnosis of pregnancy, sterility or infertility on an animal; (e) engages in the practice of obstetrics or ova collection or embryo transfer for animals; (f) engages in the practice of veterinary dentistry; (g) certifies the cause of death of an animal. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 3 . Who may practise veterinary medicine 3(1) A person must not engage in the practice of veterinary medicine unless the person (a) is a licensed member or a veterinary corporation; or (b) is a person or a member of a class of persons specified in the by-laws and engages in the practice of veterinary medicine only in accordance with the by-laws and within the scope of practice authorized by the by-laws. Exemptions 3(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to prevent a person from (a) providing first aid to an animal in an emergency without remuneration; (b) administering a drug, veterinary biologic, medicine, appliance or treatment of any kind to an animal if the person is (i) the owner of the animal or an employee of the owner, (ii) [repealed] S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 4 , (iii) a person or a member of a class of persons specified in the by-laws while acting under the supervision of a member; (c) caponizing and taking poultry blood samples; (d) engaging in the study, prevention or treatment of fish diseases; (e) the technical performance of artificial insemination; (f) before weaning age, castrating male calves, piglets and lambs, dehorning cattle and docking lambs; (g) trimming hooves of animals; (h) engaging in an activity that is authorized in a regulation under The Livestock Industry Diversification Act , if he or she has received training in the activity as required by that regulation; or (i) using an animal for a research purpose if the research is carried out using acceptable veterinary procedures and the use of the animal has been approved by an appropriate research institute whose operation is consistent with current national standards of practice for research. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 4 . Only licensed member may advertise status as veterinarian 4(1) A person must not use any sign, display or advertisement implying that the person is a veterinarian unless the person is a licensed member. Representing entitlement to practise veterinary medicine 4(1.1) A person must not expressly or impliedly represent or hold out that the person is entitled to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine unless (a) the person is a licensed member or a veterinary corporation; or (b) clause 3(1)⁠(b) permits the person to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine or a limited scope of that practice, and the by-laws permit the person to represent or hold out that the person is entitled to engage in it. Representation by person having limited scope of practice 4(1.2) When the by-laws limit the scope of practice of a person referred to in clause (1.1)⁠(b), the person must expressly state the scope of practice in any representation or holding out about the person's entitlement to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine. Use of titles 4(2) No person except a member shall use the title "veterinarian", a variation or abbreviation of that title, or an equivalent in another language. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 5 . PART 3 MANITOBA VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION Association 5(1) The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association is continued as a body corporate. Association's primary mandate 5(1.1) The association's primary mandate is to carry out its objectives and duties, exercise its powers and govern its members in a manner that serves and protects the public interest. Powers 5(2) The association has the capacity and, subject to this Act, the rights, powers and privileges of a natural person. Membership 5(3) The membership of the association consists of the individuals whose names are on the register and who have paid the required fees. Meetings 5(4) A general meeting of the association shall be held at least once a year. Special general meetings of the association may be held when the council considers it advisable or when such a meeting is requested, in writing, by members of the association in accordance with the by-laws. Notice of meetings 5(5) Notice of the time and place of each meeting referred to in subsection (4) shall be given in accordance with the by-laws. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 6 . Council established 6(1) A governing body called the council is established for the association. Composition of council 6(2) The council is to consist of (a) at least six licensed members, one of whom is to be the president of the council; (b) the immediate past president; (c) at least two members who are registered under section 17; and (d) two public representatives. Appointment of president 6(3) In accordance with the by-laws, the council must appoint one of the council members as the president of the council. President must be a licensed member 6(4) Only a licensed member may be appointed as the president of the council. Election of council members 6(5) The members of the council, other than the public representatives, are to be elected (a) by the members of the association in accordance with the by-laws; and (b) for the terms of office specified in the by-laws. Eligibility to be a public representative 6(6) A person is not eligible to serve on the council as a public representative if the person (a) is not an individual; (b) is a member or former member of the association or a parent, spouse, common-law partner, brother, sister or child of a member; (c) is employed by a member; or (d) is an officer or employee of, or has a pecuniary interest in, a veterinary corporation. Appointment of council members who are public representatives 6(7) A member of the council who serves as a public representative is to be appointed by the minister for the term fixed by the minister, which may not be longer than four years. Term limit for public representative 6(8) A person may not serve on the council as a public representative for more than eight consecutive years. Quorum 6(9) A majority of the members of the council constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Vacancies 6(10) The council may fill a vacancy on the council by appointing a member of the association, who is qualified to be elected to the vacant position, for the unexpired term. This subsection does not apply to a vacancy in a public representative position. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 7 . By-laws 7(1) The council may pass by-laws (a) respecting the aims and objectives of the association; (b) governing the practice of veterinary medicine; (c) for the purpose of subclause 3(2)⁠(b)⁠(iii), specifying persons who may administer a drug, veterinary biologic, medicine, appliance or treatment to an animal; (d) establishing classes of members and governing the rights, privileges and obligations of each class, including the requirements for members to be able to vote; (e) respecting requirements for and the categories of registration and licensure in the association; (f) respecting academic standards and examination requirements for membership in the association; (g) respecting the registration of veterinary students and the duties and responsibilities of students during their employment by licensed members or by veterinary corporations; (h) respecting the registration of veterinary technologists and their duties and responsibilities; (i) respecting the keeping of the register; (i.1) respecting the record of veterinary corporations; (j) governing, subject to subsection (1.1), the practice of veterinary medicine in Manitoba by veterinarians licensed to practise in another Canadian jurisdiction, including by-laws respecting the terms and conditions under which they are entitled to practise; (k) respecting standards of practice for members; (l) respecting a code of ethics for members; (m) respecting continuing education requirements for members; (n) controlling the manner in which a member may describe his or her qualifications or occupation and prohibiting the use of any term, title or designation that in the opinion of the council is calculated to mislead the public; (o) respecting the election of members of the council, the filling of vacancies on the council and prescribing the terms of office and the duties of members; (p) governing the establishment and operation of committees of the association; (q) providing for the appointment of officers and employees of the association and prescribing their duties; (r) respecting the calling and conduct of meetings of the association; (s) respecting the holding of votes on any matter relating to the association, including voting by mail or any other method; (t) governing scholarships, bursaries and prizes; (u) defining "supervision" for any purpose required under this Act or the by-laws; (v) governing the management of the association's real and personal property; (w) respecting the professional liability insurance or other liability protection that a member or a veterinary corporation must carry; (w.1) respecting the practice of veterinary medicine by licensed members through veterinary corporations, including by-laws (i) respecting the application for and the issuance, expiry and renewal of permits, including conditions that must be met before a permit may be issued or renewed, (ii) respecting notice of changes required under section 17.7, (iii) respecting restrictions or conditions that may be imposed on permits, (iv) governing procedures for suspension or cancellation of permits or the imposition of restrictions or conditions on permits, and (v) respecting names by which veterinary corporations or partnerships referred to in section 17.2 may be known or under which they may practise veterinary medicine; (w.2) governing the relationship of the association with the Manitoba Animal Health Technologists Association Inc., whether known by that corporate name or another corporate name; (x) governing the relationship of the association with the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association; (y) respecting any other matter the council considers necessary or desirable for the working or management of the association or the study or advancement of veterinary medicine; (z) respecting any other matter required by this Act. Labour mobility 7(1.1) In making a by-law under clause (1)⁠(j), the association must ensure that the by-law complies with the association's obligations under The Labour Mobility Act . Requirement for by-law respecting disclosure of pricing 7(1.2) By by-law, the council must establish and continuously maintain standards that (a) require every member or veterinary corporation to disclose to each client all fees and charges that the client is likely to incur in exchange for professional services from the member or veterinary corporation, except when the services are reasonably required in urgent or unexpected circumstances; (b) require the disclosure to be made in a clear and understandable manner and before the professional services are provided; and (c) prohibit a member or veterinary corporation from charging a client a fee or charge in excess of the disclosed fees and charges, except when the excess fee or charge is for a professional service that the member or veterinary corporation could not have reasonably foreseen when the disclosure of fees and charges was made. Deadline for members' vote 7(1.3) Before the expiration of one year after this subsection comes into force, the council must — in accordance with the procedure set out in subsection (2) — present the by-law to the association's members affected by it for a vote on whether to enact it. By-law must be provided to minister before being finalized 7(1.4) Before finalizing a by-law for the purpose of this section, or any by-law that amends or replaces it, the council must provide the by-law to the minister for review and comment. The council must consider any comments made by the minister in relation to the final by-law, amending by-law or replacement by-law. Members voting on by-laws 7(2) A by-law may be enacted, amended or repealed by a majority vote of the association's members in the membership classes that the council identifies, by resolution, as being affected by the by-law, amendment or repeal when the council passes it under subsection (1). Method of members' voting 7(3) Members voting for the purpose of subsection (2) must vote by one of the following methods, as determined by the council: (a) voting by ballot by members present at a general meeting of members, including the annual meeting of the association; (b) voting by ballot delivered by mail; (c) voting by another method conducted in accordance with the by-laws. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 8 . Duties and functions of council 8(1) The council shall manage and conduct the affairs of the association and may, by resolution, (a) make rules respecting the calling and conduct of meetings of the council and the performance of its duties; (b) provide for the remuneration and expenses of officers and employees of the association and of members of the council and committees; (c) establish the annual budget for the association; (d) enter into contracts and agreements on behalf of the association; (e) determine the fees to be paid to the association in connection with registrations, licences and permits, including fees to be paid (i) for registration as a member of any class or for renewal of a registration, (ii) for a licence to practise veterinary medicine, and (iii) for a permit for a veterinary corporation; (f) suspend or cancel a person's registration, licence or permit for non-payment of a fee or penalty due under this Act or the by-laws, and establish terms for reinstatement. Exceptions 8(2) Despite subsection (1), if a matter involves unusual expenditures of money in an amount that exceeds an amount specified in the by-laws, or involves the membership of the association in a contract for a period of more than one year, the council shall act only under the authority of a by-law. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 9 . PART 4 REGISTRATION AND LICENSING REGISTRATION Register of members 9(1) The council shall keep a register and enter in it the name of every individual registered under this Act, the category of membership held by the individual and any other information required by the by-laws. Registrar 9(2) The council shall appoint a registrar who shall be responsible for keeping the register, issuing certificates of registration and licences to members and performing any other duties assigned to the registrar by this Act, the by-laws or the council. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 10 . Application for registration 10(1) An application for registration as a member must be made to the registrar and be accompanied by evidence of compliance with the requirements for registration provided for in the by-laws. Registrar to issue certificate 10(2) On entering the name of a member in the register, the registrar is to issue a certificate of registration to the member. Cancellation if member fails to renew licence for two years 10(3) The council may cancel the registration of a member who, without the council's approval, fails to renew his or her licence for two consecutive years. Cancellation if member fails to renew registration 10(4) The council may cancel a member's registration if the member fails to renew it in accordance with the by-laws. If the member also holds a licence, the council may cancel it with the registration. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 11 . Application for registration not approved 11 If the registrar does not approve an application for registration as a member, the registrar must give notice to the applicant in writing, with reasons for the decision, and must advise the applicant that the applicant may appeal the decision to the council. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 12 . Appeal to council 12(1) An individual whose application for registration is not approved by the registrar may appeal the decision to the council by filing a written notice of appeal within 30 days after receiving the notice of refusal, specifying the reasons for the appeal. Hearing 12(2) On receiving a notice of appeal, the council must (a) schedule the appeal within 90 days after receiving it; and (b) give written notice to the applicant of the date, time and place of the appeal. Right to appear and make representations 12(3) An applicant who appeals a decision of the registrar under this section is entitled to appear with counsel at the appeal and make representations to the council. Participation by registrar 12(4) The registrar may participate in the appeal and make submissions to the council. Decision by council 12(5) On considering an appeal under this section, the council may make any decision the registrar could have made and must give written notice of its decision to the registrar and the applicant. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 13 . Appeal from decision of council 13(1) An individual whose application for registration is refused by the council may appeal the decision to the Court of King's Bench by filing a notice of appeal within 30 days after the date on which the applicant is notified of the refusal. Powers of court on appeal 13(2) On hearing an appeal, the court may (a) make any decision that in its opinion should have been made; or (b) refer the matter back to the council for further consideration in accordance with any direction of the court. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 14 . CANCELLATION OF REGISTRATION Registration may be cancelled if fraud 14(1) If the registrar is satisfied on reasonable grounds that a member's registration has been obtained by means of a false or fraudulent representation or declaration, the registrar must report the matter to the council, and the council may direct the registrar to cancel the member's registration. The registrar must then cancel the registration and give the individual written notice of that fact. Registration may be cancelled if member convicted 14(2) The council may direct the registrar to cancel the registration of a member who has been convicted of an offence that is relevant to his or her suitability to practise, but it must first notify the member that it intends to do so and give the member an opportunity to make representations. Appeal 14(3) A member whose registration is cancelled under this section may appeal the cancellation to the Court of King's Bench, in which case section 13 applies with necessary modifications. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 15 . ANNUAL LICENCE Annual licence 15(1) A registered member who is engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine shall pay to the association the annual licence fee prescribed by the council for the category of licence applicable to that member. Issuance of annual licence 15(2) When a member pays the annual licence fee and complies with any other requirements specified in the by-laws, the registrar shall issue a licence to the member in a form approved by the by-laws. Duration of licence 15(3) A licence remains in force for the period provided for in the by-laws and may be renewed in accordance with this Act and the by-laws. TEMPORARY REGISTRATION AND LICENCE Temporary registration and licence 16(1) In accordance with any directions of the council, the registrar may issue a temporary certificate of registration and licence to an individual who (a) has met the academic requirements for registration provided for in the by-laws; and (b) has applied to take any examinations provided for in the by-laws. Terms and conditions 16(2) A temporary certificate and licence may be issued under subsection (1) for any period of time and subject to any terms and conditions that the council considers appropriate. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 16 . REGISTRATION OF VETERINARY TECHNOLOGISTS Registration of veterinary technologists 17(1) An individual who meets the requirements for registration provided for in the by-laws may apply to the registrar to be registered as a veterinary technologist. Employment of veterinary technologists 17(2) In accordance with the by-laws, a member or a veterinary corporation may employ a veterinary technologist who is registered under subsection (1) and may charge and collect fees for services performed by the technologist. Titles interchangeable 17(3) An individual who is registered with the association as a veterinary technologist may use the titles "veterinary technologist" and "animal health technologist". Use of titles — "veterinary technologist" and "animal health technologist" 17(4) No person except an individual who is registered with the association as a veterinary technologist shall use (a) the title "veterinary technologist" or "animal health technologist"; or (b) a variation or abbreviation of either of those titles or an equivalent in another language. Registered animal health technologists deemed to be veterinary technologists 17(5) An individual registered with the association as an animal health technologist when this subsection comes into force is deemed to be registered as a veterinary technologist, and the individual is subject to this Act and the by-laws in the same manner as though originally registered as a veterinary technologist under this section. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 18 and 40. PART 4.1 VETERINARY CORPORATIONS Definitions 17.1 The following definitions apply in this Part. "voting share" , in relation to a veterinary corporation, means a share of its capital stock that entitles the holder to vote in any election of the corporation's directors. (« action avec droit de vote ») "voting shareholder" , in relation to a veterinary corporation, means a person who owns a voting share of the corporation or is a voting shareholder of another corporation that owns a voting share of the corporation. (« actionnaire avec droit de vote ») S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Authority of veterinary corporation to practise 17.2(1) A veterinary corporation may practise veterinary medicine but only through one or more licensed members. Permitted practice name 17.2(2) Subject to subsection (1), a veterinary corporation may practise veterinary medicine (a) under its own name; or (b) under a name approved by the registrar in accordance with the by-laws, as a member of a general partnership of (i) veterinary corporations, or (ii) veterinary corporations and licensed members. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . RECORD OF VETERINARY CORPORATIONS Record of veterinary corporations 17.3(1) In accordance with the by-laws, the council must establish and the registrar must maintain a record of veterinary corporations. Contents of record 17.3(2) The record of veterinary corporations must contain the following information for each veterinary corporation: (a) the name and business address of the corporation; (b) the name of each licensed member who is a shareholder or director of the corporation and the name of the licensed member who is its president; (c) the name of each licensed member through whom the corporation practises veterinary medicine; (d) any practice restrictions or other conditions imposed on the corporation's permit; (e) a notation of each suspension or cancellation of the corporation's permit; (f) the date the corporation's permit was issued; (g) any other information that the by-laws require to be kept in the record. Record information public 17.3(3) The following information about a veterinary corporation contained in the record must be made available to the public at the association's office during normal business hours and on its website: (a) the information described in clauses (2)⁠(a) to (f); (b) any additional information that the by-laws require to be made available to the public. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . PERMITS Corporate permit 17.4(1) Subject to subsection (5), the registrar must issue a permit or a renewal of a permit to a corporation if the registrar is satisfied that (a) the corporation is incorporated, formed by amalgamation or continued under The Corporations Act and is in good standing under that Act; (b) the name of the corporation includes the words "veterinary corporation"; (c) each voting share of the corporation is legally and beneficially owned by a licensed member or a veterinary corporation; (d) each other share in the capital stock of the corporation is legally and beneficially owned (i) by a person who is a voting shareholder of the corporation, (ii) a spouse, common-law partner or child, within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada), of a voting shareholder of the corporation, or (iii) a corporation, each share of the capital stock of which is legally and beneficially owned by a person referred to in subclause (i) or (ii); (e) each director of the corporation is a licensed member; (f) the president of the corporation is a licensed member; (g) each person through whom the corporation is to practise veterinary medicine is (i) a licensed member, or (ii) a veterinary technologist or other employee acting under the supervision of a licensed member through whom the corporation practises veterinary medicine; (h) the corporation has filed an application for the permit or renewal in the form required by the council and paid the permit or renewal fee required by the council; and (i) all other requirements of the council for the issuance or renewal of the permit have been satisfied. Conditions 17.4(2) A permit may be issued or renewed subject to any conditions that the registrar considers advisable. Validity 17.4(3) Unless it is cancelled, surrendered or suspended, a permit issued or renewed under subsection (1) is valid for the time period specified in the permit. Validity during consideration of renewal application 17.4(4) If an application for renewal is received by the registrar by the date set out in the by-laws, the permit continues in force until a decision on the application has been made. Refusal to issue or renew permit 17.4(5) The registrar (a) must refuse to issue a permit to, or to renew the permit of, a corporation if the registrar is not satisfied by proper evidence that the corporation meets the requirements of subsection (1); and (b) may refuse to issue a permit to, or to renew the permit of, a corporation if (i) a permit issued to the corporation under this Act has been cancelled or surrendered, or (ii) a director, officer or shareholder of the corporation is or has been a director, officer or shareholder of a corporation whose permit under this Act has been cancelled or surrendered. Notice of decision 17.4(6) If the registrar refuses to issue or renew a permit under subsection (5), or issues or renews a permit subject to conditions, the registrar must (a) give the corporation written notice of the decision and the reasons for it; and (b) advise the corporation that it may appeal the decision to the council. Appeal to council 17.4(7) A corporation that is refused a permit or renewal of a permit, or whose permit is issued or renewed subject to conditions, may appeal the registrar's decision to the council. How to appeal 17.4(8) The appeal must be made by filing a written notice of appeal with the council within 30 days after the corporation receives notice of the decision. The notice of the appeal must specify the reasons for the appeal. Decision by council 17.4(9) The council must either dismiss the appeal or make any decision the registrar could have made. The council must give the corporation written notice of its decision and the reasons for it and must advise the corporation that it may appeal the decision to the Court of King's Bench. Appeal to court 17.4(10) A corporation may appeal the decision of the council to the Court of King's Bench by filing a notice of appeal within 30 days after receiving notice of the council's decision under subsection (9). Subsection 17.11(3) applies to an appeal under this subsection. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 and 41. RESTRICTIONS Business without permit prohibited 17.5(1) A corporation whose name includes the words "veterinary corporation" must not carry on any business in the province unless it holds a valid permit. Restriction on business of veterinary corporation 17.5(2) A veterinary corporation must not carry on any business or activity other than the practice authorized by the permit and the provision of other services directly associated with the practice. Interpretation of business restriction 17.5(3) Subsections (1) and (2) must not be construed so as to prohibit a veterinary corporation from investing its funds in real property, other than for development purposes, or in stocks, mutual funds, debt obligations, insurance, term deposits or similar investments. Validity of corporate act 17.5(4) No act of a veterinary corporation, including a transfer of property to it or by it, is invalid merely because it contravenes subsection (1) or (2). S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . AGREEMENTS Voting agreements void 17.6(1) An agreement or proxy that vests in a person who is not a licensed member the authority to exercise any voting right attached to a share of a veterinary corporation is void. Unanimous shareholders' agreements void 17.6(2) A unanimous shareholders' agreement within the meaning of subsection 140(2) of The Corporations Act in respect of a veterinary corporation is void unless each shareholder of the corporation is a licensed member or a veterinary corporation. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Notice of changes 17.7 A veterinary corporation must notify the registrar — within the time period and in the form and manner specified under the association's by-laws — of any change in the corporation's directors, president or voting shareholders. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Application of Act and by-laws 17.8(1) This Act and the by-laws apply to a member despite any relationship the member may have with a veterinary corporation. Obligations to clients not diminished 17.8(2) The fiduciary and ethical obligations of a member to a person receiving professional services and the member's obligations to any person respecting confidentiality (a) are not diminished by the fact that the services are provided on behalf of a veterinary corporation; and (b) apply equally to the veterinary corporation on whose behalf the services are provided and to its directors, officers and shareholders. Liability of member 17.8(3) The liability of a member to a person receiving professional services is not affected by the fact that the services are provided on behalf of a veterinary corporation. Liability of voting shareholders 17.8(4) A person is jointly and severally liable with a veterinary corporation, or a corporation acting in contravention of section 3, for all professional liability claims made against the corporation in respect of acts, errors or omissions that were made or occurred while the person was a voting shareholder of the corporation. Investigation of member providing service through corporation 17.8(5) If the conduct of a member through whom a veterinary corporation is or was providing professional services at the time the conduct occurs or occurred is the subject of a complaint, investigation or inquiry, (a) any power of entry, inspection, investigation or inquiry that may be exercised in respect of (i) the member, (ii) any premises or place in which the member practises veterinary medicine, (iii) any equipment, materials or things used by the member, or (iv) the member's records, substances or things, may be exercised in respect of the corporation, its premises or place, equipment, materials or records, substances or things; and (b) the corporation is jointly and severally liable with the member for all fines and costs the member is ordered to pay. Member's practice restrictions apply to corporation 17.8(6) Any practice restriction or condition imposed on the registration or licence of a member through whom a veterinary corporation provides professional services applies to the permit of the corporation in relation to its provision of professional services through that member. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . SUSPENSION OR CANCELLATION Suspending or cancelling permit 17.9(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), the council may suspend or cancel a veterinary corporation's permit if (a) the corporation ceases to meet any of the requirements of eligibility for a permit set out or referred to in subsection 17.4(1); (b) the corporation contravenes any provision of this Act or the by-laws or a restriction or condition that applies to the corporation's permit; or (c) a member, in the course of providing professional services on behalf of the corporation, does or fails to do anything as a result of which the member's registration or licence is suspended or cancelled. Limitation 17.9(2) A veterinary corporation's permit must not be cancelled or suspended by reason only of the fact that (a) one or more shares of the corporation have vested in (i) an executor or administrator of the estate of an individual as a consequence of the death of the individual, or (ii) a trustee in bankruptcy on the bankruptcy of the owner of the shares, unless the corporation is no longer practising veterinary medicine through a licensed member or the shares continue to be vested in the executor, administrator or trustee for more than 180 days or any longer period allowed by the council; (b) the former spouse or common-law partner of a voting shareholder continues to own a share of the corporation after the end of their marriage or common-law relationship; (c) the registration or licence of a member has been suspended, unless (i) the member is the president or a director of the corporation and continues to hold that position more than 14 days after the commencement of the suspension, or (ii) the corporation is no longer practising veterinary medicine through a licensed member; or (d) the registration or licence of a member has been surrendered or cancelled, unless (i) the individual is the president or a director of the corporation and continues to hold that position for more than 14 days after the surrender or cancellation, (ii) the individual remains a voting shareholder of the corporation for more than 90 days after the surrender or cancellation, or for any longer period allowed by the council, or (iii) the corporation is no longer practising veterinary medicine through a licensed member. Surrender of permit 17.9(3) When a veterinary corporation's permit is cancelled, it must promptly surrender the permit to the registrar. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Alternatives to suspending or cancelling permit 17.10 Instead of suspending or cancelling the veterinary corporation's permit under section 17.9, the council may take any other action it considers appropriate, including one or more of the following: (a) reprimanding the corporation or one or more directors or voting shareholders of the corporation; (b) imposing restrictions or conditions on the permit; (c) imposing a fine on the corporation, payable to the association, in an amount not exceeding $10,000. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Written notice of cancellation required 17.11(1) The council must (a) give notice to the veterinary corporation in writing with the reasons for the council's decision to suspend or cancel its permit or take any action under section 17.10; and (b) advise the corporation that it may appeal the decision to the Court of King's Bench. Appeal to court 17.11(2) A veterinary corporation may appeal the decision of the council to the Court of King's Bench by filing a notice of appeal within 30 days after receiving notice of the council's decision. Powers of court on appeal 17.11(3) Upon hearing an appeal, the court may (a) dismiss the appeal; (b) make any decision that in its opinion should have been made; or (c) refer the matter back to the council for further consideration in accordance with any direction of the court. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . PROHIBITIONS Holding out as a veterinary corporation 17.12(1) A corporation must not hold itself out as a veterinary corporation unless it holds a valid permit. Holding out as a shareholder, officer, etc. 17.12(2) A person must not hold himself or herself out as a shareholder, officer, director, agent or employee of a veterinary corporation unless the corporation holds a valid permit. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Making false representations or declarations 17.13(1) A person must not make a representation or declaration for the purpose of having a veterinary corporation permit issued or renewed if the person knows that the representation or declaration is false. Assisting the making of false representation 17.13(2) A person must not knowingly assist another person in making a false representation or declaration for the purpose mentioned in subsection (1). S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . MISCELLANEOUS Council powers over members also apply to corporations 17.14 The council may exercise in respect of a veterinary corporation any power that the council may exercise in respect of a member. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . Prohibition re false advertising 17.15 A member or veterinary corporation must not engage in advertising that is untruthful, inaccurate or otherwise capable of misleading or misinforming the public. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 19 . PART 5 DISCIPLINE PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE Peer review committee 18(1) There shall be a peer review committee consisting of at least nine individuals appointed in accordance with this section. Purpose of committee 18(2) The purpose of the peer review committee is to provide a roster of individuals who may be appointed as members of the complaints committee, the appeals committee and any inquiry panel established under this Part. Membership 18(3) At least six members of the peer review committee shall be members of the association appointed by the council, and at least three members of the committee shall be public representatives each of whom (a) is not a member or former member of the association or a parent, spouse, common-law partner, brother, sister or child of a member; (b) is not employed by a member of the association; and (c) is not an officer or employee of, and does not have a pecuniary interest in, a firm or corporation that practises veterinary medicine. Public representatives 18(4) The public representatives of the peer review committee shall be appointed by the council for two-year terms. Appointment of successor 18(5) The public representatives continue to hold office after the expiry of their terms until reappointed or until a successor is appointed. Chairperson 18(6) The council shall appoint one member of the peer review committee to be chairperson of the committee. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 20 . COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE Complaints committee 19 The chairperson of the peer review committee shall from time to time appoint at least two members of that committee as a complaints committee. Complaints 20(1) Any person may make a complaint in writing to the association about the conduct of a member of the association, and the complaint shall be dealt with in accordance with this Part. Complaints against former members 20(2) If, after the certificate of registration or licence of a member is suspended, cancelled or not renewed under this Act or any predecessor to this Act, (a) a person wishes to make a complaint about the former member; and (b) the complaint relates to conduct occurring while the former member's registration or licence was in effect; the complaint must be made within five years after the date of suspension, cancellation or failure to renew as if the former member's registration or licence were still in effect. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 21 . Referral to complaints committee 21(1) The registrar shall refer a matter to the complaints committee if (a) a complaint is made under subsection 20(1); or (b) the registrar or the council considers a referral to be advisable. Informal resolution 21(2) The complaints committee shall review a complaint or other matter referred to it and may attempt to resolve it informally if the committee considers informal resolution to be appropriate. Advice to the member 21(3) On resolving a complaint or other matter, the complaints committee may provide any advice to the member that it considers necessary or appropriate. SUSPENSION OF REGISTRATION AND LICENCE BY COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE Suspension during consideration of complaint 21.1(1) Despite anything in this Act, the complaints committee may, when it believes that a complaint about a member exposes a serious risk to the public, direct the registrar to suspend, or to impose conditions of practice on, one or both of the member's certificate of registration or licence while the complaints committee considers the complaint. Notice of suspension 21.1(2) On receiving a direction under subsection (1), the registrar must serve a notice about it on the member. Application for stay 21.1(3) The member may apply for an order of the court staying a direction of the complaints committee under subsection (1) by filing an application with the Court of King's Bench and serving a copy on the association. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 22 . INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINT Investigation 22(1) When a matter is referred to the complaints committee, the committee may direct that an investigation into the conduct of a member be held, and for that purpose may appoint a person to conduct the investigation and may engage legal counsel and employ other expert assistance. Records and information 22(2) A person conducting an investigation may (a) require the investigated member or any other member to produce to the investigator any records, documents and things in his or her possession or under his or her control that may be relevant to the investigation; (b) require the investigated member, or any other member who may have information relevant to the investigation, to attend before the person conducting the investigation to be interviewed; and (c) direct an inspection or audit of the practice of the investigated member.

Failure to produce records 22(3) The association may apply, without notice, to the Court of King's Bench for an order (a) directing any member to produce to any person conducting an investigation any records, documents and things in his or her possession or control, if it is shown that the member failed to produce them when required by the person conducting the investigation; or (b) directing any person who is not a member of the association to produce to a person conducting an investigation any records, documents and things that are or may be relevant to the matter being investigated. Investigation of other matters 22(4) A person conducting an investigation may investigate any other matter related to the professional conduct or the skill in practice of the investigated member that arises in the course of the investigation. Report to complaints committee 22(5) At the conclusion of an investigation, the person conducting it must report the person's findings to the complaints committee. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 24 . DECISION OF COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE Decision of complaints committee 23(1) After a review or an investigation, the complaints committee may do one or more of the following: (a) direct that the matter be referred, in whole or in part, to the peer review chairperson to establish an inquiry panel under subsection 30(1); (b) direct that no further action be taken; (c) issue a formal caution to the investigated member censuring the member's conduct if the complaints committee has met with the member and the member has agreed to accept the caution; (d) enter into an agreement with the investigated member or accept an undertaking from the member that provides for one or more of the following: (i) assessing the member's capacity or fitness to practise veterinary medicine, (ii) counselling or treatment of the member; (iii) monitoring or supervising the member's practice of veterinary medicine; (iv) the  member completing a specific course of studies by way of remedial training; (v) placing restrictions or conditions on the member's certificate of registration or licence; (e) accept the voluntary surrender of the investigated member's certificate of registration or licence; (f) refer the matter to mediation if the complaints committee determines that the complaint is strictly a matter of concern to the complainant and the investigated member and both parties agree to mediation; or (g) take any other action that it considers appropriate in the circumstances that is not inconsistent with or contrary to this Act or the by-laws. Notice to member and complainant 23(2) The complaints committee shall notify the investigated member and the complainant in writing of the committee's decision under subsection (1) and the reasons for the decision. Hearing not required 23(3) Except when required by clause (1)⁠(c), the complaints committee is not required to hold a hearing or to give any person an opportunity to appear or to make oral representations, before making a decision under this section. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 25 . Matter not resolved by mediation 24 If a matter referred to mediation under clause 23(1)⁠(f) cannot be resolved, it must be referred back to the complaints committee which may make any other decision under subsection 23(1) that it considers appropriate. FORMAL CAUTION Publication of caution 25(1) The complaints committee may publish the fact that a formal caution has been issued to an investigated member under clause 23(1)⁠(c), the name of the member and a description of the circumstances that led to the caution. Order for costs 25(2) If the complaints committee issues a formal caution to an investigated member, it may also order the member to pay all or part of the costs of the investigation up to the issuance of the caution. No appeal of formal caution 25(3) The issuance of a formal caution cannot be appealed. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 26 . VOLUNTARY SURRENDER OF REGISTRATION OR LICENCE Voluntary surrender of registration or licence 26(1) If the complaints committee accepts the voluntary surrender of an investigated member's certificate of registration or licence, it may direct the member to do one or more of the following, to the satisfaction of any person or committee that the complaints committee may determine, before the member's right to practise may be reinstated: (a) obtain counselling or treatment; (b) complete a specified course of studies; (c) obtain supervised clinical experience. Order for costs 26(2) The complaints committee may direct the investigated member to pay all or part of the costs incurred by the association in monitoring compliance with a direction given under subsection (1), and to pay all or part of the costs of the investigation up to the time that the certificate of registration or licence is surrendered. Conditions on re-instatement 26(3) A voluntary surrender remains in effect until the complaints committee is satisfied that the conduct or complaint that was the subject of the investigation has been resolved, at which time the complaints committee may impose conditions on the investigated member's entitlement to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine, including conditions that the investigated member do one or more of the following: (a) limit his or her practice; (b) practise under supervision; (c) not engage in sole practice; (d) permit periodic inspections of the member's practice; (e) permit periodic audits of records; (f) report on specific matters to any person or committee that the complaints committee may determine; (g) comply with any other conditions that it considers appropriate in the circumstances; and may order the member to pay all or part of the costs incurred by the association in monitoring compliance with such conditions. Referral to peer review chairperson 26(4) Despite any other action it may have taken, with the exception of a formal caution, the complaints committee may at any time refer the conduct or complaint that it has reviewed to the peer review chairperson for formal inquiry. NOTICE TO REGISTRAR OF CERTAIN DECISIONS Notice to registrar in certain cases 26.1 The complaints committee must notify the registrar and provide the registrar with any information the by-laws require if (a) it takes an action in respect of a member under any of clauses 23(1)⁠(c), (d), (e) or (g); (b) it directs a member to take an action under subsection 26(1); or (c) it imposes a condition on a member under subsection 26(3). S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 27 . APPEALS COMMITTEE Appeals committee 27(1) The peer review chairperson shall from time to time, from among the members of the peer review committee, appoint an appeals committee consisting of at least three members, and shall name one of them as chairperson. Public representative 27(2) One of the members of the appeal committee shall be a public representative. Members not to have taken part in complaints committee review 27(3) No one who was a member of the complaints committee reviewing a matter under investigation may be a member of the appeals committee hearing the appeal of that matter. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 28 . Appeal to appeals committee 28(1) If the complaints committee makes a decision under clause 23(1)⁠(b) (d), (e) or (g), the complainant may appeal the decision to the appeals committee. Form of appeal 28(2) An appeal shall be made in writing to the chairperson of the peer review committee, giving reasons for the appeal, and must be received by the association within 30 days after the date the complainant is notified of the decision of the complaints committee. Power on appeal 28(3) On an appeal, the appeals committee shall do one or more of the following: (a) make any decision that in its opinion ought to have been made by the complaints committee; (b) quash, vary or confirm the decision of the complaints committee; (c) refer the matter back to the complaints committee for further consideration in accordance with any direction that the appeals committee may make. Notice of decision 28(4) The appeals committee shall give the investigated member and the complainant a written notice setting out the committee's decision and the reasons for its decision. Hearing not required 28(5) The appeals committee is not required to hold a hearing or to afford to any person an opportunity to appear or to make oral submissions before making a decision under this section, but the committee shall give the complainant an opportunity to make a written submission. SUSPENSION OF REGISTRATION AND LICENCE PENDING DECISION Suspension pending decision 29(1) Despite anything in this Act, the council may direct the registrar to suspend, or to impose conditions of practice on, one or both of an investigated member's certificate of registration or licence pending the outcome of proceedings under this Act, when there is a question of serious risk to the public. Notice of suspension 29(2) On receiving a direction under subsection (1), the registrar shall serve a notice of the suspension on the investigated member. Application for stay 29(3) The investigated member may apply for an order of the court staying a direction of the council under subsection (1) by filing an application with the Court of King's Bench and serving a copy on the association. APPOINTMENT OF INQUIRY PANEL Establishment of inquiry panel 30(1) When a matter is referred to the chairperson of the peer review committee (a) by the complaints committee under clause 23(1)⁠(a) or subsection 26(4); or (b) by the appeals committee under subsection 28(3); the chairperson shall establish an inquiry panel consisting of at least three members of the peer review committee, one of whom shall be a public representative. Chairperson 30(2) The inquiry panel shall elect a chairperson from among its members. Members not to have taken part in investigation 30(3) No one who investigated the conduct of the investigated member or participated in a review of the matter as a member of the complaints committee or the appeals committee may be a member of the inquiry panel concerning the same matter. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 29 . Procedure 31 The inquiry panel shall determine its own practice and procedure. HEARING Hearing by inquiry panel 32(1) When an inquiry panel is established, it shall hold a hearing. Date of hearing 32(2) The hearing shall commence on a date within 60 days after the date on which the matter is referred, unless the investigated member consents in writing to a later date. Notice of hearing 32(3) At least 21 days before the date of the hearing, the registrar shall serve on the investigated member and the complainant a notice of hearing stating the date, time and place at which the inquiry panel will hold the hearing and identifying in general terms the complaint or matter in respect of which the hearing will be held. Inquiry panel and registrar may have counsel 33(1) The inquiry panel and the committee that referred the matter to the peer review chairperson may each have counsel to assist them at a hearing. Right to appear and be represented 33(2) The investigated member may appear and be represented by counsel, at his or her expense, at a hearing before the inquiry panel. Member may examine documentary evidence 33(3) The investigated member shall be afforded an opportunity to examine, before the hearing, any written or documentary evidence that will be produced or any report the contents of which will be given in evidence at the hearing. Member to provide documentary evidence 33(4) If the investigated member intends to rely on any written or documentary evidence or any report at the hearing, he or she shall provide a copy of that evidence or report to the association before the day of the hearing. Evidence of expert without report 33(5) If either the investigated member or the association intends to call an expert as a witness at the hearing, and there is no report from the expert, a summary of the expert's intended evidence, including his or her findings, opinions and conclusions, shall be provided to the other party before the date of the hearing. Failure to provide summary 33(6) If a summary is not provided in accordance with subsection (5), the expert may testify at the hearing only with the leave of the inquiry panel. Hearing open to public 34(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a hearing of the inquiry panel shall be open to the public, but there shall not be reporting in the media of anything that would identify the investigated member, including the member's name, the business name of the member's practice or partnership, or the location of practice, unless and until the inquiry panel makes any of the findings under section 40. Request for hearing in private 34(2) The investigated member or any committee referring a matter for formal inquiry may request that the hearing or any part of it be held in private. Hearing in private 34(3) When a request is made under subsection (2), the inquiry panel may exclude the public from the hearing or any part of the hearing, or may direct that the investigated member or any witness be identified only by initials, if the inquiry panel is satisfied that (a) matters involving public security may be disclosed; (b) financial or personal or other matters may be disclosed at the hearing that are of such a nature that the desirability of avoiding public disclosure of those matters in the interest of any person affected or in the public interest outweighs the desirability of adhering to the principle that meetings be open to the public; (c) a person involved in a criminal proceeding or in a civil suit or proceeding may be prejudiced; or (d) the safety of a person may be jeopardized. Reasons for excluding the public to be available 34(4) If the inquiry panel makes an order under subsection (3), it shall give its reasons at the hearing. Investigation of other matters 35 The inquiry panel may investigate and hear any other matter concerning the professional conduct or the skill in practice of an investigated member that arises in the course of its proceedings, but in that event the panel shall declare its intention to investigate the further matter and shall permit the member sufficient opportunity to prepare a response to the further matter. Evidence 36(1) At a hearing before the inquiry panel, the oral evidence of witnesses shall be taken on oath or affirmation, and there shall be a full right to cross examine witnesses and call evidence in defence and reply. Power to administer oaths 36(2) For the purpose of an investigation or hearing under this Act, the chairperson of the inquiry panel has power to administer oaths and affirmations. Recording of evidence 36(3) The oral evidence given at a hearing of the inquiry panel shall be recorded. Adjournments 36(4) The chairperson of the inquiry panel may adjourn a hearing from time to time. Proof of conviction 37 For the purposes of proceedings under this Act, a certified copy, under the seal of the Court of King's Bench or signed by the convicting judge or the clerk of the Provincial Court, of the conviction of a person for any crime or offence under any Act or regulation is conclusive evidence that the person has committed the crime or offence stated, unless it is shown that the conviction has been quashed or set aside. Witnesses 38(1) Any person, other than the investigated member, who, in the opinion of the inquiry panel, has knowledge of the complaint or matter being investigated is a compellable witness in any proceeding before the inquiry panel. Notice to attend and produce records 38(2) The attendance of witnesses before the inquiry panel and the production of records may be enforced by a notice issued by the registrar or the chairperson of the peer review committee, requiring the witness to attend and stating the date, time and place at which the witness is to attend and the records, if any, that the witness is required to produce. Notices for witnesses 38(3) On the request of the investigated member or the member's counsel or agent, the registrar or peer review chairperson shall provide any notices that the member requires for the attendance of witnesses or the production of records. Witness fees 38(4) A witness who has been served with a notice to attend or a notice for production under this section is entitled to be paid the same fees in the same manner as are payable to a witness in an action in the Court of King's Bench. Failure to attend or give evidence 38(5) Proceedings for civil contempt of court may be brought against a witness (a) who fails to attend before the inquiry panel in compliance with a notice to attend; (b) who fails to produce any records in compliance with a notice to produce them; or (c) who refuses to be sworn or to affirm or to answer any question he or she is directed to answer by the inquiry panel. Hearing in absence of investigated member 39 The inquiry panel may, on proof of service of the notice of hearing on the investigated member, (a) proceed with the hearing in the absence of the member or the member's agent; and (b) act, decide or report on the matter being heard in the same way as if the member were in attendance. DECISION OF INQUIRY PANEL Findings of inquiry panel 40 If, at the conclusion of a hearing, the inquiry panel finds that the investigated member (a) is guilty of professional misconduct; (b) is guilty of conduct unbecoming a member; (c) has contravened this Act or the by-laws or the code of ethics adopted under this Act; (d) has been found guilty of an offence that is relevant to his or her suitability to practise veterinary medicine; (e) has displayed a lack of knowledge of or lack of skill or judgment in the practice of veterinary medicine; (f) has demonstrated that he or she is incapable of practising or unfit to practise veterinary medicine; (g) is suffering from an ailment that might, if allowed to continue, constitute a danger to the public; it shall deal with the member in accordance with this Act. Orders of inquiry panel 41(1) If the inquiry panel makes any of the findings described in section 40, it may make any one or more of the following orders: (a) reprimand the member; (b) suspend the member's certificate of registration or licence, or both, for such period of time as the inquiry panel determines is appropriate; (c) suspend the member's certificate of registration or licence, or both, until the member has completed a specified course of studies or obtained supervised clinical experience to the satisfaction of any person or committee that the inquiry panel may determine; (d) suspend the member's certificate of registration or licence, or both, until the member has obtained treatment or counselling and has demonstrated that a disability, addiction or problem can be or has been overcome to the satisfaction of any person or committee that the inquiry panel may determine; (e) impose conditions on the member's entitlement to practise veterinary medicine, including conditions that the member (i) limit his or her practice, (ii) practise under supervision, (iii) not engage in sole practice, (iv) permit periodic inspections of the member's practice, (v) permit periodic audits of records, (vi) report on specific matters to any person or committee that the inquiry panel may determine, (vii) complete a particular course of studies or obtain supervised practical clinical experience to the satisfaction of any person or committee that the inquiry panel may determine, or (viii) obtain treatment for a disability or addiction or undertake counselling until such time as the person can demonstrate that a disability, addiction or problem can be or has been overcome to the satisfaction of any person or committee that the inquiry panel may determine; and may order the member to pay any cost arising from any such conditions; (f) direct the member to waive money owed or refund money paid to him or her that, in the opinion of the inquiry panel, was unjustified for any reason; (g) cancel one or both of the member's certificate of registration or licence. Cancellation or suspension of registration or licence 41(2) If the certificate of registration or licence of a member is suspended or cancelled, the member shall not practice veterinary medicine during the period of the suspension or cancellation. Inquiry panel may request member's discipline record 41(3) After making any of the findings described in section 40 and in order to assist it in determining an appropriate order, the inquiry panel may request the registrar to provide the panel with the details of any information about the member provided to the registrar under section 26.1. The registrar must provide the information as soon as practicable after the request. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 30 . Costs and fines 42(1) The inquiry panel may, in addition to or instead of dealing with the conduct of an investigated member in accordance with section 41, order that the investigated member pay to the association, within the time set by the order, (a) all or part of the costs of the investigation and hearing; (b) a fine not exceeding $10,000.; (c) both the costs under clause (a) and the fine under clause (b). Nature of costs 42(2) The costs referred to in subsection (1) may include, but are not limited to, (a) all disbursements incurred by the association, including (i) fees and expenses for experts, investigators and auditors whose reports or attendances were reasonably necessary for the investigation or hearing, (ii) travel costs and reasonable expenses of any witnesses required to appear at the hearing, (iii) fees for retaining a reporter and preparing transcripts of the proceedings, (iv) costs of service of documents, long distance telephone and facsimile charges, courier delivery charges and similar miscellaneous expenses, (b) payments made to members of the peer review committee or investigators; and (c) costs incurred by the association in providing counsel. Failure to pay costs and fines by time ordered 42(3) If the member ordered to pay a fine, costs or both under subsection (1) fails to pay within the time ordered, the council may suspend the member's certificate of registration or licence until the member has paid the fine or costs. Filing of order to pay costs 42(4) The association may file an order made under subsection (1) in the Court of King's Bench and, on the order being filed, it may be enforced in the same manner as a judgment of the court. Written decision and formal order 43(1) Following completion of the hearing, the inquiry panel shall give its decision and the reasons for it in writing, and shall also make a formal order embodying the decision. Decision and order forwarded to registrar 43(2) The inquiry panel shall forward to the registrar (a) the decision and order given under subsection (1); and (b) any record of the proceedings and all exhibits and documents. Service of decision and order 43(3) The registrar shall, on receiving the decision and order, serve a copy of the decision and order on the investigated member and the complainant. Publication of decision 44 Despite the fact that any proceeding or part of a proceeding before an inquiry panel may have been held in private, the association may, after the decision and any order has been served on the investigated member, publish the circumstances relevant to the findings and any order of the panel. If the panel makes an order against the member under section 41 or 42, the association may also publish the member's name. APPEAL TO COURT OF APPEAL Appeal to Court of Appeal 45(1) An investigated member may appeal to the Court of Appeal any finding or order made by the inquiry panel under sections 40, 41 or 42. Commencement of appeal 45(2) An appeal shall be commenced (a) by filing a notice of appeal with the Court of Appeal; and (b) by serving a copy of the notice of appeal on the association; within 30 days after the date on which the decision of the inquiry panel is served on the member. Appeal on the record 45(3) An appeal to the Court of Appeal must be founded on the record of the hearing before the inquiry panel and the decision of the panel. Powers of Court on appeal 46 The Court of Appeal on hearing the appeal may (a) make any finding or order that in its opinion ought to have been made; (b) quash, vary or confirm the decision of the inquiry panel or any part of it; or (c) refer the matter back to the board for further consideration in accordance with any direction of the Court. Stay pending appeal 47 The decision of the inquiry panel remains in effect pending an appeal to the Court of Appeal unless the Court, on application, stays the decision and any order of the panel pending the appeal. REINSTATEMENT Reinstatement 48 The council may, on application by an individual whose certificate of registration or licence has been cancelled, direct the registrar to reinstate the individual's name in the register subject to such conditions as the council may prescribe, and may order the individual to pay any costs arising from the imposition of such conditions. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 31 . PART 6 GENERAL PROVISIONS INSPECTORS Appointment of inspector 49(1) The association may appoint one or more inspectors for the purposes of this Act and the by-laws. Inspection of a veterinary practice 49(2) An inspector may review the operation of a veterinary practice and shall report his or her findings to the registrar on the conclusion of each inspection. Entry of premises and inspection of records 50(1) For the purpose of enforcing and administering this Act, an inspector may at any reasonable time, and when requested, upon presentation of an identification card issued by the association, (a) without a warrant, enter the premises or place in which a member or veterinary corporation practises veterinary medicine and make any inspections that are reasonably required to determine compliance with this Act; (b) require the production by the member or veterinary corporation of any record that the inspector reasonably considers necessary for the purpose of enforcing this Act; (c) inspect and, upon giving a receipt, remove records or things relevant to the inspection for the purpose of making copies or extracts; and (d) remove substances and things for examination or test purposes upon giving a receipt. Admissibility of copies 50(2) A copy of a record made under clause (1)⁠(c) and certified to be a true copy by the inspector is, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, admissible in evidence in any proceeding or prosecution as proof of the original record and its contents. Entry with order 50(3) When a justice is satisfied by information under oath that there are reasonable grounds for believing that it is necessary for an inspector to enter a building, vehicle or other place for the enforcement of this Act and (a) a reasonable, unsuccessful effort to effect entry without the use of force has been made; or (b) there are reasonable grounds for believing that entry would be denied without a warrant; the justice may at any time, and if necessary upon application without notice, issue an order authorizing the inspector and such other persons as may be named in the order, with such peace officers as are required to assist, to enter the building or other place and to take such action as an inspector may take under subsection (1). Obstruction of inspector 50(4) No person shall obstruct an inspector or withhold from an inspector or conceal or destroy any records, documents, substances or things relevant to an audit. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 32 . SERVICE OF DOCUMENTS Service of documents 51(1) A notice, order or other document under this Act is sufficiently given or served if it is (a) delivered personally; or (b) sent by registered mail, or by another service that provides the sender with proof of delivery, to the intended recipient at that person's last address appearing in the records of the association. Deemed receipt 51(2) A notice, order or other document sent by registered mail is deemed to be given or served five days after the day it was sent. OFFENCES Offence and penalty 52(1) A person who contravenes a provision of this Act is guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction (a) in the case of an individual, (i) to a fine of not more than $10,000 for a first offence, and (ii) to a fine of not more than $50,000 for a subsequent offence; and (b) in the case of a corporation, (i) to a fine of not more than $25,000 for a first offence, and (ii) to a fine of not more than $100,000 for a subsequent offence. Fraudulent representation on application for registration or permit 52(2) A person who obtains, or attempts to obtain, a registration or permit under this Act by making a false or fraudulent representation or declaration, either orally or in writing, and any person who knowingly assists in making such a representation or declaration, is guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction (a) to a fine of not more than $10,000 for a first offence; and (b) to a fine of not more than $50,000 for a subsequent offence. Directors, officers and employees 52(2.1) If a corporation commits an offence under this Act, a director, officer or employee of the corporation who authorized, permitted or acquiesced in the commission of the offence is also guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction to the applicable penalty set out in clause (1)⁠(a), whether or not the corporation has been prosecuted or convicted. Limitation on prosecution 52(3) A prosecution under this section may be commenced within two years after the commission of the alleged offence, but not afterwards. Prosecution of offence 52(4) Any person may be a prosecutor or complainant in the prosecution of an offence under this Act, and the court hearing the prosecution may order that all or any part of a fine recovered be paid to the prosecutor towards the costs of the prosecution. Stay of proceedings 52(5) When the association is the prosecutor of an offence under this Act, it may apply for a stay of proceedings in the prosecution, and the court shall grant the stay. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 33 . PROTECTION FROM LIABILITY Protection from liability 53 No action lies against the association, the council, the registrar, a person conducting an investigation, an inspector, a member of a committee or board established under this Act or the by-laws, or any employee, officer or person acting on the instructions of any of them for anything done by the person in good faith in the performance or intended exercise of any power under this Act or the by-laws or for any neglect or default in the performance or exercise in good faith of such a duty or power. 54 [Repealed] S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 35 ; S.M. 2021, c. 44, s. 52 . INJUNCTION Injunction 55 The court, on application by the association, may grant an injunction enjoining any person from doing any act that contravenes Part 2 notwithstanding any penalty that may be provided by this Act in respect of that contravention. CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION Confidentiality of information 56 Every person employed, appointed or retained for the purpose of administering this Act, and every member of the council or a committee of the council, shall preserve secrecy about all information that comes to his or her knowledge in the course of his or her duties, and shall not communicate any information to any other person, except (a) to the extent the information is available to the public under this Act; (b) when required for the administration of this Act, including but not limited to, (i) registration matters, (ii) the issuance of permits, (iii) dealing with complaints about members or veterinary corporations and allegations of members' incapacity, unfitness, incompetence or acts of professional misconduct, and (iv) governing the practice of veterinary medicine; (c) to a body that governs the practice of another profession pursuant to an Act of the Legislature, to the extent the information is required in order for that body to carry out its mandate under the Act; (d) to a body that governs the practice of veterinary medicine in a jurisdiction other than Manitoba; or (e) to a law enforcement authority respecting possible criminal activity on the part of a member or veterinary corporation. S.M. 2015, c. 34, s. 36 . PART 7 TRANSITIONAL, REPEAL AND COMING INTO FORCE Transitional: definition of "former Act" 57(1) In this section and in sections 58 to 60, "former Act" means The Veterinary Medical Act, R.S.M. 1987, c. V30. Registration continued 57(2) An individual who is a member of the association under the former Act on the day this Act comes into force is deemed to be registered as a member under this Act. Annual licence continued 57(3) An annual licence issued under the former Act that is valid on the day this Act comes into force is deemed to be an annual licence issued under this Act. Application for registration continued 57(4) An application for registration made under the former Act but on which a decision has not been made under section 12 of the former Act before the coming into force of this Act shall be dealt with under this Act. Council continued 58 The members of the council under the former Act are deemed to be members of the council under this Act, elected or appointed for the same period and holding the same offices. Complaints under former Act: inquiry commenced 59(1) If a complaint was made under the former Act in respect of which an inquiry was commenced under subsection 14(3) of that Act before the coming into force of this Act, the inquiry and other proceedings relating to the complaint shall be concluded under the former Act. Complaints under former Act: no inquiry commenced 59(2) If a complaint was made under the former Act in respect of which no inquiry was commenced under subsection 14(3) of that Act before the coming into force of this Act, the complaint shall be dealt with under this Act as if the complaint had been made under this Act. Complaints re past conduct 59(3) A complaint made after this Act comes into force that relates to conduct that occurred in whole or part before this Act comes into force shall be dealt with under this Act. Orders under former Act continued 60 If an order made under subsection 14(7) of the former Act is in effect on the day this Act comes into force, it continues in effect as though it was made under Part 5 of this Act. Repeal 61 The Veterinary Medical Act , R.S.M. 1987, c. V30, is repealed. C.C.S.M. reference 62 This Act may be referred to as chapter V30 of the Continuing Consolidation of the Statutes of Manitoba . Coming into force 63 This Act comes into force on a day fixed by proclamation. NOTE: S.M. 1999, c. 32 came into force by proclamation on December 15, 1999.