Statutory Powers Procedure Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22

CONTENTS 1. Interpretation 2. Liberal construction of Act and rules 3. Application of Act 4. Waiver 4.1 Disposition without hearing 4.2 Panels, certain matters 4.2.1 Panel of one, reduced panel 4.3 Expiry of term 4.4 Incapacity, failure to complete hearing or make decision 4.5 Decision not to process commencement of proceeding 4.6 Dismissal of proceeding without hearing 4.7 Classifying proceedings 4.8 Alternative dispute resolution 4.9 Mediators, etc.: not compellable, notes not evidence 5. Parties 5.1 Written hearings 5.2 Electronic hearings 5.2.1 Different kinds of hearings in one proceeding 5.3 Pre-hearing conferences 5.4 Disclosure 6. Notice of hearing 7. Effect of non-attendance at hearing after due notice 8. Where character, etc., of a party is in issue 9. Hearings to be public; maintenance of order 9.1 Proceedings involving similar questions 10. Right to representation 10.1 Examination of witnesses 11. Rights of witnesses to representation 12. Summonses 13. Contempt proceedings 14. Protection for witnesses 15. Evidence 15.1 Use of previously admitted evidence 15.2 Witness panels 16. Notice of facts and opinions 16.1 Interim decisions and orders 16.2 Time frames 17. Decision; interest 17.1 Costs 18. Notice of decision 19. Enforcement of orders 20. Record of proceeding 21. Adjournments 21.1 Correction of errors 21.2 Power to review 22. Administration of oaths 23. Powers re control of proceedings 24. Notice, etc. 25. Appeal operates as stay, exception 25.0.1 Control of process 25.1 Rules 26. Regulations 27. Rules, etc., available to public 28. Substantial compliance 29. Prohibition on photographs, recordings, dissemination 32. Conflict Interpretation 1 (1) In this Act, “electronic hearing” means a hearing held by conference telephone or some other form of electronic technology allowing persons to hear one another; (“audience électronique”) “hearing” means a hearing in any proceeding; (“audience”) “licence” includes any permit, certificate, approval, registration or similar form of permission required by law; (“autorisation”) “municipality” has the same meaning as in the Municipal Affairs Act; (“municipalité”) “oral hearing” means a hearing at which the parties or their representatives attend before the tribunal in person; (“audience orale”) “proceeding” means a proceeding to which this Act applies; (“instance”) “representative” means, in respect of a proceeding to which this Act applies, a person authorized under the Law Society Act to represent a person in that proceeding; (“représentant”) “statutory power of decision” means a power or right, conferred by or under a statute, to make a decision deciding or prescribing, (a) the legal rights, powers, privileges, immunities, duties or liabilities of any person or party, or (b) the eligibility of any person or party to receive, or to the continuation of, a benefit or licence, whether the person is legally entitled thereto or not; (“compétence légale de décision”) “tribunal” means one or more persons, whether or not incorporated and however described, upon which a statutory power of decision is conferred by or under a statute; (“tribunal”) “written hearing” means a hearing held by means of the exchange of documents, whether in written form or by electronic means. (“audience écrite”) R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 1 (1); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (1-3); 2002, c. 17, Sched. F, Table; 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (1, 2). Meaning of “person” extended (2) A municipality, an unincorporated association of employers, a trade union or council of trade unions who may be a party to a proceeding in the exercise of a statutory power of decision under the statute conferring the power shall be deemed to be a person for the purpose of any provision of this Act or of any rule made under this Act that applies to parties. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 1 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (1-3) - 1/04/1995 2002, c. 17, Sched. F, Table - 1/01/2003 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (1, 2) - 1/05/2007 Liberal construction of Act and rules 2 This Act, and any rule made by a tribunal under subsection 17.1 (4) or section 25.1, shall be liberally construed to secure the just, most expeditious and cost-effective determination of every proceeding on its merits. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (1); 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (1) - 14/02/2000 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (1) - 22/06/2006 Application of Act 3 (1) Subject to subsection (2), this Act applies to a proceeding by a tribunal in the exercise of a statutory power of decision conferred by or under an Act of the Legislature, where the tribunal is required by or under such Act or otherwise by law to hold or to afford to the parties to the proceeding an opportunity for a hearing before making a decision. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 3 (1); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (5). Where Act does not apply (2) This Act does not apply to a proceeding, (a) before the Assembly or any committee of the Assembly; (b) in or before, (i) the Court of Appeal, (ii) the Superior Court of Justice, (iii) the Ontario Court of Justice, (iv) the Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice, (v) the Small Claims Court, or (vi) a justice of the peace; (c) to which the Rules of Civil Procedure apply; (d) before an arbitrator to which the Arbitration Act, 1991 or the Labour Relations Act, 1995 applies; (e) at a coroner’s inquest; (f) of a commission appointed under the Public Inquiries Act, 2009; (g) of one or more persons required to make an investigation and to make a report, with or without recommendations, where the report is for the information or advice of the person to whom it is made and does not in any way legally bind or limit that person in any decision he or she may have power to make; or (h) of a tribunal empowered to make regulations, rules or by-laws in so far as its power to make regulations, rules or by-laws is concerned. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 3 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (6); 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1, 2, 4); 2009, c. 33, Sched. 6, s. 87; 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (5, 6) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1, 2, 4) - 22/06/2006 2009, c. 33, Sched. 6, s. 87 - 1/06/2011 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 1 - 03/06/2021 Waiver Waiver of procedural requirement 4 (1) Any procedural requirement of this Act, or of another Act or a regulation that applies to a proceeding, may be waived with the consent of the parties and the tribunal. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (1). Same, rules (2) Any provision of a tribunal’s rules made under section 25.1 may be waived in accordance with the rules. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (7). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (7) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (1) - 28/11/1997 Disposition without hearing 4.1 If the parties consent, a proceeding may be disposed of by a decision of the tribunal given without a hearing, unless another Act or a regulation that applies to the proceeding provides otherwise. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (2) - 28/11/1997 Panels, certain matters 4.2 (1) A procedural or interlocutory matter in a proceeding may be heard and determined by a panel consisting of one or more members of the tribunal, as assigned by the chair of the tribunal. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (8). Assignments (2) In assigning members of the tribunal to a panel, the chair shall take into consideration any requirement imposed by another Act or a regulation that applies to the proceeding that the tribunal be representative of specific interests. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (3). Decision of panel (3) The decision of a majority of the members of a panel, or their unanimous decision in the case of a two-member panel, is the tribunal’s decision. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (8). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (8) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (3) - 28/11/1997 Panel of one, reduced panel Panel of one 4.2.1 (1) The chair of a tribunal may decide that a proceeding be heard by a panel of one person and assign the person to hear the proceeding unless there is a statutory requirement in another Act that the proceeding be heard by a panel of more than one person. Reduction in number of panel members (2) Where there is a statutory requirement in another Act that a proceeding be heard by a panel of a specified number of persons, the chair of the tribunal may assign to the panel one person or any lesser number of persons than the number specified in the other Act if all parties to the proceeding consent. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (2) - 14/02/2000 Expiry of term 4.3 If the term of office of a member of a tribunal who has participated in a hearing expires before a decision is given, the term shall be deemed to continue, but only for the purpose of participating in the decision and for no other purpose. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (4). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (4) - 28/11/1997 Incapacity, failure to complete hearing or make decision Incapacity, panel of one 4.4 (1) In the case of a panel of one person, if the person dies or is or appears to be, for any other reason, unable to complete a hearing or to make a decision, the chair of the tribunal may, on a party’s motion to the tribunal or on the chair’s own initiative, assign another panel to complete the hearing or make a decision in the person’s place. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Incapacity, panel of more than one (2) In the case of a panel of more than one person, if a member of the panel dies or is unable for any other reason to complete a hearing or to participate in a decision, the remaining member or members may complete the hearing or make a decision. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Failure to meet reasonable time frame (3) If the chair of the tribunal is of the opinion that a panel has failed to complete a hearing or make a decision within a reasonable time, the chair may specify a deadline by which the panel must complete the hearing or make a decision. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Same (4) For the purposes of subsection (3), the chair of the tribunal, (a) shall consider, (i) the guidelines established by the tribunal under section 16.2, and (ii) the service standard policy developed by the tribunal under section 5 of the Adjudicative Tribunals Accountability, Governance and Appointments Act, 2009, if applicable; and (b) may consider any other matter that, in the chair’s opinion, is relevant in the circumstances. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Failure to meet specified deadline (5) If a panel fails to meet a deadline specified under subsection (3), the chair of the tribunal may, on a party’s motion to the tribunal or on the chair’s own initiative, assign another panel to complete the hearing or make a decision in the first panel’s place. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. If assigned to another panel (6) The panel assigned under subsection (1) or (5) shall determine whether to, (a) continue the hearing or make a decision on the basis of the existing evidentiary record, subject to subsection (8); or (b) rehear the proceeding. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Same, submissions (7) If the panel permits, the parties to the proceeding may make submissions on the determination to be made by the panel under subsection (6). 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Same, powers (8) Despite clause (6) (a), the panel may, during or after the hearing, recall a witness or require further evidence. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Other Acts and regulations (9) This section is subject to any other Act or regulation that applies to the proceeding. 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (9) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (5) - 28/11/1997 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 1 - 01/07/2025 Decision not to process commencement of proceeding 4.5 (1) Subject to subsection (3), upon receiving documents relating to the commencement of a proceeding, a tribunal or its administrative staff may decide not to process the documents relating to the commencement of the proceeding if, (a) the documents are incomplete; (b) the documents are received after the time required for commencing the proceeding has elapsed; (c) the fee required for commencing the proceeding is not paid; or (d) there is some other technical defect in the commencement of the proceeding. Notice (2) A tribunal or its administrative staff shall give the party who commences a proceeding notice of its decision under subsection (1) and shall set out in the notice the reasons for the decision and the requirements for resuming the processing of the documents. Rules under s. 25.1 (3) A tribunal or its administrative staff shall not make a decision under subsection (1) unless the tribunal has made rules under section 25.1 respecting the making of such decisions and those rules shall set out, (a) any of the grounds referred to in subsection (1) upon which the tribunal or its administrative staff may decide not to process the documents relating to the commencement of a proceeding; and (b) the requirements for the processing of the documents to be resumed. Continuance of provisions in other statutes (4) Despite section 32, nothing in this section shall prevent a tribunal or its administrative staff from deciding not to process documents relating to the commencement of a proceeding on grounds that differ from those referred to in subsection (1) or without complying with subsection (2) or (3) if the tribunal or its staff does so in accordance with the provisions of an Act that are in force on the day this section comes into force. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3) - 14/02/2000 Dismissal of proceeding without hearing 4.6 (1) Subject to subsections (5) and (6), a tribunal may dismiss a proceeding without a hearing if, (a) the proceeding is frivolous, vexatious or is commenced in bad faith; (b) the proceeding relates to matters that are outside the jurisdiction of the tribunal; or (c) some aspect of the statutory requirements for bringing the proceeding has not been met. Notice (2) Before dismissing a proceeding under this section, a tribunal shall give notice of its intention to dismiss the proceeding to, (a) all parties to the proceeding if the proceeding is being dismissed for reasons referred to in clause (1) (b); or (b) the party who commences the proceeding if the proceeding is being dismissed for any other reason. Same (3) The notice of intention to dismiss a proceeding shall set out the reasons for the dismissal and inform the parties of their right to make written submissions to the tribunal with respect to the dismissal within the time specified in the notice. Right to make submissions (4) A party who receives a notice under subsection (2) may make written submissions to the tribunal with respect to the dismissal within the time specified in the notice. Dismissal (5) A tribunal shall not dismiss a proceeding under this section until it has given notice under subsection (2) and considered any submissions made under subsection (4). Rules (6) A tribunal shall not dismiss a proceeding under this section unless it has made rules under section 25.1 respecting the early dismissal of proceedings and those rules shall include, (a) any of the grounds referred to in subsection (1) upon which a proceeding may be dismissed; (b) the right of the parties who are entitled to receive notice under subsection (2) to make submissions with respect to the dismissal; and (c) the time within which the submissions must be made. Continuance of provisions in other statutes (7) Despite section 32, nothing in this section shall prevent a tribunal from dismissing a proceeding on grounds other than those referred to in subsection (1) or without complying with subsections (2) to (6) if the tribunal dismisses the proceeding in accordance with the provisions of an Act that are in force on the day this section comes into force. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3) - 14/02/2000 Classifying proceedings 4.7 A tribunal may make rules under section 25.1 classifying the types of proceedings that come before it and setting guidelines as to the procedural steps or processes (such as preliminary motions, pre-hearing conferences, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, expedited hearings) that apply to each type of proceeding and the circumstances in which other procedures may apply. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3) - 14/02/2000 Alternative dispute resolution 4.8 (1) A tribunal may direct the parties to a proceeding to participate in an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for the purposes of resolving the proceeding or an issue arising in the proceeding if, (a) it has made rules under section 25.1 respecting the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms; and (b) all parties consent to participating in the alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Definition (2) In this section, “alternative dispute resolution mechanism” includes mediation, conciliation, negotiation or any other means of facilitating the resolution of issues in dispute. Rules (3) A rule under section 25.1 respecting the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms shall include procedural guidelines to deal with the following: 1. The circumstances in which a settlement achieved by means of an alternative dispute resolution mechanism must be reviewed and approved by the tribunal. 2. Any requirement, statutory or otherwise, that there be an order by the tribunal. Mandatory alternative dispute resolution (4) A rule under subsection (3) may provide that participation in an alternative dispute resolution mechanism is mandatory or that it is mandatory in certain specified circumstances. Person appointed to mediate, etc. (5) A rule under subsection (3) may provide that a person appointed to mediate, conciliate, negotiate or help resolve a matter by means of an alternative dispute resolution mechanism be a member of the tribunal or a person independent of the tribunal. However, a member of the tribunal who is so appointed with respect to a matter in a proceeding shall not subsequently hear the matter if it comes before the tribunal unless the parties consent. Continuance of provisions in other statutes (6) Despite section 32, nothing in this section shall prevent a tribunal from directing parties to a proceeding to participate in an alternative dispute resolution mechanism even though the requirements of subsections (1) to (5) have not been met if the tribunal does so in accordance with the provisions of an Act that are in force on the day this section comes into force. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3) - 14/02/2000 Mediators, etc.: not compellable, notes not evidence Mediators, etc., not compellable 4.9 (1) No person employed as a mediator, conciliator or negotiator or otherwise appointed to facilitate the resolution of a matter before a tribunal by means of an alternative dispute resolution mechanism shall be compelled to give testimony or produce documents in a proceeding before the tribunal or in a civil proceeding with respect to matters that come to his or her knowledge in the course of exercising his or her duties under this or any other Act. Evidence in civil proceedings (2) No notes or records kept by a mediator, conciliator or negotiator or by any other person appointed to facilitate the resolution of a matter before a tribunal by means of an alternative dispute resolution mechanism under this or any other Act are admissible in a civil proceeding. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (3) - 14/02/2000 Parties 5. The parties to a proceeding shall be the persons specified as parties by or under the statute under which the proceeding arises or, if not so specified, persons entitled by law to be parties to the proceeding. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 5. Written hearings 5.1 (1) A tribunal whose rules made under section 25.1 deal with written hearings may hold a written hearing in a proceeding. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (6). Exception (2) The tribunal shall not hold a written hearing if a party satisfies the tribunal that there is good reason for not doing so. Same (2.1) Subsection (2) does not apply if the only purpose of the hearing is to deal with procedural matters. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (4). Documents (3) In a written hearing, all the parties are entitled to receive every document that the tribunal receives in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (10). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (10) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (6) - 28/11/1997; 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (4) - 14/02/2000 Electronic hearings 5.2 (1) A tribunal whose rules made under section 25.1 deal with electronic hearings may hold an electronic hearing in a proceeding. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (7). Exception (2) The tribunal shall not hold an electronic hearing if a party satisfies the tribunal that holding an electronic rather than an oral hearing is likely to cause the party significant prejudice. Same (3) Subsection (2) does not apply if the only purpose of the hearing is to deal with procedural matters. Participants to be able to hear one another (4) In an electronic hearing, all the parties and the members of the tribunal participating in the hearing must be able to hear one another and any witnesses throughout the hearing. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (10). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (10) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (7) - 28/11/1997 Different kinds of hearings in one proceeding 5.2.1 A tribunal may, in a proceeding, hold any combination of written, electronic and oral hearings. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (8). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (8) - 28/11/1997 Pre-hearing conferences 5.3 (1) If the tribunal’s rules made under section 25.1 deal with pre-hearing conferences, the tribunal may direct the parties to participate in a pre-hearing conference to consider, (a) the settlement of any or all of the issues; (b) the simplification of the issues; (c) facts or evidence that may be agreed upon; (d) the dates by which any steps in the proceeding are to be taken or begun; (e) the estimated duration of the hearing; and (f) any other matter that may assist in the just and most expeditious disposition of the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (11); 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (9). Other Acts and regulations (1.1) The tribunal’s power to direct the parties to participate in a pre-hearing conference is subject to any other Act or regulation that applies to the proceeding. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (10). Who presides (2) The chair of the tribunal may designate a member of the tribunal or any other person to preside at the pre-hearing conference. Orders (3) A member who presides at a pre-hearing conference may make such orders as he or she considers necessary or advisable with respect to the conduct of the proceeding, including adding parties. Disqualification (4) A member who presides at a pre-hearing conference at which the parties attempt to settle issues shall not preside at the hearing of the proceeding unless the parties consent. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (11). Application of s. 5.2 (5) Section 5.2 applies to a pre-hearing conference, with necessary modifications. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (10). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (11) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (9, 10) - 28/11/1997 Disclosure 5.4 (1) If the tribunal’s rules made under section 25.1 deal with disclosure, the tribunal may, at any stage of the proceeding before all hearings are complete, make orders for, (a) the exchange of documents; (b) the oral or written examination of a party; (c) the exchange of witness statements and reports of expert witnesses; (d) the provision of particulars; (e) any other form of disclosure. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (12); 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (11). Other Acts and regulations (1.1) The tribunal’s power to make orders for disclosure is subject to any other Act or regulation that applies to the proceeding. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (12). Exception, privileged information (2) Subsection (1) does not authorize the making of an order requiring disclosure of privileged information. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (12). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (12) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (11, 12) - 28/11/1997 Notice of hearing 6 (1) The parties to a proceeding shall be given reasonable notice of the hearing by the tribunal. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 6 (1). Statutory authority (2) A notice of a hearing shall include a reference to the statutory authority under which the hearing will be held. Oral hearing (3) A notice of an oral hearing shall include, (a) a statement of the time, place and purpose of the hearing; and (b) a statement that if the party notified does not attend at the hearing, the tribunal may proceed in the party’s absence and the party will not be entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (13). Written hearing (4) A notice of a written hearing shall include, (a) a statement of the date and purpose of the hearing, and details about the manner in which the hearing will be held; (b) a statement that the hearing shall not be held as a written hearing if the party satisfies the tribunal that there is good reason for not holding a written hearing (in which case the tribunal is required to hold it as an electronic or oral hearing) and an indication of the procedure to be followed for that purpose; (c) a statement that if the party notified neither acts under clause (b) nor participates in the hearing in accordance with the notice, the tribunal may proceed without the party’s participation and the party will not be entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (13); 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (13); 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (5). Electronic hearing (5) A notice of an electronic hearing shall include, (a) a statement of the time and purpose of the hearing, and details about the manner in which the hearing will be held; (b) a statement that the only purpose of the hearing is to deal with procedural matters, if that is the case; (c) if clause (b) does not apply, a statement that the party notified may, by satisfying the tribunal that holding the hearing as an electronic hearing is likely to cause the party significant prejudice, require the tribunal to hold the hearing as an oral hearing, and an indication of the procedure to be followed for that purpose; and (d) a statement that if the party notified neither acts under clause (c), if applicable, nor participates in the hearing in accordance with the notice, the tribunal may proceed without the party’s participation and the party will not be entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (13). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (13) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (13) - 28/11/1997; 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (5) - 14/02/2000 Effect of non-attendance at hearing after due notice 7 (1) Where notice of an oral hearing has been given to a party to a proceeding in accordance with this Act and the party does not attend at the hearing, the tribunal may proceed in the absence of the party and the party is not entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 7; 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (14). Same, written hearings (2) Where notice of a written hearing has been given to a party to a proceeding in accordance with this Act and the party neither acts under clause 6 (4) (b) nor participates in the hearing in accordance with the notice, the tribunal may proceed without the party’s participation and the party is not entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. Same, electronic hearings (3) Where notice of an electronic hearing has been given to a party to a proceeding in accordance with this Act and the party neither acts under clause 6 (5) (c), if applicable, nor participates in the hearing in accordance with the notice, the tribunal may proceed without the party’s participation and the party is not entitled to any further notice in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (15). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (14, 15) - 1/04/1995 Where character, etc., of a party is in issue 8. Where the good character, propriety of conduct or competence of a party is an issue in a proceeding, the party is entitled to be furnished prior to the hearing with reasonable information of any allegations with respect thereto. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 8. Hearings to be public; maintenance of order Hearings to be public, exceptions 9 (1) An oral hearing shall be open to the public except where the tribunal is of the opinion that, (a) matters involving public security may be disclosed; or (b) intimate financial or personal matters or other matters may be disclosed at the hearing of such a nature, having regard to the circumstances, that the desirability of avoiding disclosure thereof in the interests of any person affected or in the public interest outweighs the desirability of adhering to the principle that hearings be open to the public, in which case the tribunal may hold the hearing in the absence of the public. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 9 (1); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (16). Written hearings (1.1) In a written hearing, members of the public are entitled to reasonable access to the documents submitted, unless the tribunal is of the opinion that clause (1) (a) or (b) applies. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (17). Electronic hearings (1.2) An electronic hearing shall be open to the public unless the tribunal is of the opinion that, (a) it is not practical to hold the hearing in a manner that is open to the public; or (b) clause (1) (a) or (b) applies. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (14). Maintenance of order at hearings (2) A tribunal may make such orders or give such directions at an oral or electronic hearing as it considers necessary for the maintenance of order at the hearing, and, if any person disobeys or fails to comply with any such order or direction, the tribunal or a member thereof may call for the assistance of any peace officer to enforce the order or direction, and every peace officer so called upon shall take such action as is necessary to enforce the order or direction and may use such force as is reasonably required for that purpose. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 9 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (18). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (16-18) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (14) - 28/11/1997 Proceedings involving similar questions 9.1 (1) If two or more proceedings before a tribunal involve the same or similar questions of fact, law or policy, the tribunal may, (a) combine the proceedings or any part of them, with the consent of the parties; (b) hear the proceedings at the same time, with the consent of the parties; (c) hear the proceedings one immediately after the other; or (d) stay one or more of the proceedings until after the determination of another one of them. Exception (2) Subsection (1) does not apply to proceedings held under section 21 of the Ontario Land Tribunal Act, 2021. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (19); 2021, c. 4, Sched. 6, s. 91. Same (3) Clauses (1) (a) and (b) do not apply to a proceeding if, (a) any other Act or regulation that applies to the proceeding requires that it be heard in private; (b) the tribunal is of the opinion that clause 9 (1) (a) or (b) applies to the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (19); 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (15). Conflict, consent requirements (4) The consent requirements of clauses (1) (a) and (b) do not apply if another Act or a regulation that applies to the proceedings allows the tribunal to combine them or hear them at the same time without the consent of the parties. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (16). Use of same evidence (5) If the parties to the second-named proceeding consent, the tribunal may treat evidence that is admitted in a proceeding as if it were also admitted in another proceeding that is heard at the same time under clause (1) (b). 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (19). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (19) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (15, 16) - 28/11/1997 2021, c. 4, Sched. 6, s. 91 - 01/06/2021 Right to representation 10 A party to a proceeding may be represented by a representative. 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (20) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (3) - 1/05/2007 Examination of witnesses 10.1 A party to a proceeding may, at an oral or electronic hearing, (a) call and examine witnesses and present evidence and submissions; and (b) conduct cross-examinations of witnesses at the hearing reasonably required for a full and fair disclosure of all matters relevant to the issues in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (20). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (20) - 1/04/1995 Rights of witnesses to representation 11 (1) A witness at an oral or electronic hearing is entitled to be advised by a representative as to his or her rights, but such representative may take no other part in the hearing without leave of the tribunal. 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (4). Idem (2) Where an oral hearing is closed to the public, the witness’s representative is not entitled to be present except when that witness is giving evidence. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 11 (2); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (22); 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (5). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (21, 22) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (4, 5) - 1/05/2007 Summonses 12 (1) A tribunal may require any person, including a party, by summons, (a) to give evidence on oath or affirmation at an oral or electronic hearing; and (b) to produce in evidence at an oral or electronic hearing documents and things specified by the tribunal, relevant to the subject-matter of the proceeding and admissible at a hearing. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 12 (1); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (23). Form and service of summons (2) A summons issued under subsection (1) shall be in the prescribed form (in English or French) and, (a) where the tribunal consists of one person, shall be signed by him or her; (b) where the tribunal consists of more than one person, shall be signed by the chair of the tribunal or in such other manner as documents on behalf of the tribunal may be signed under the statute constituting the tribunal. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (24). Same (3) The summons shall be served personally on the person summoned. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (24). Fees and allowances (3.1) The person summoned is entitled to receive the same fees or allowances for attending at or otherwise participating in the hearing as are paid to a person summoned to attend before the Superior Court of Justice. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (24); 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1). Bench warrant (4) A judge of the Superior Court of Justice may issue a warrant against a person if the judge is satisfied that, (a) a summons was served on the person under this section; (b) the person has failed to attend or to remain in attendance at the hearing (in the case of an oral hearing) or has failed otherwise to participate in the hearing (in the case of an electronic hearing) in accordance with the summons; and (c) the person’s attendance or participation is material to the ends of justice. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (25); 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1). Same (4.1) The warrant shall be in the prescribed form (in English or French), directed to any police officer, and shall require the person to be apprehended anywhere within Ontario, brought before the tribunal forthwith and, (a) detained in custody as the judge may order until the person’s presence as a witness is no longer required; or (b) in the judge’s discretion, released on a recognizance, with or without sureties, conditioned for attendance or participation to give evidence. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (25). Proof of service (5) Service of a summons may be proved by affidavit in an application to have a warrant issued under subsection (4). 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (26). Certificate of facts (6) Where an application to have a warrant issued is made on behalf of a tribunal, the person constituting the tribunal or, if the tribunal consists of more than one person, the chair of the tribunal may certify to the judge the facts relied on to establish that the attendance or other participation of the person summoned is material to the ends of justice, and the judge may accept the certificate as proof of the facts. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (26). Same (7) Where the application is made by a party to the proceeding, the facts relied on to establish that the attendance or other participation of the person is material to the ends of justice may be proved by the party’s affidavit. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (26). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (23-26) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1) - 22/06/2006 Contempt proceedings 13 (1) Where any person without lawful excuse, (a) on being duly summoned under section 12 as a witness at a hearing makes default in attending at the hearing; or (b) being in attendance as a witness at an oral hearing or otherwise participating as a witness at an electronic hearing, refuses to take an oath or to make an affirmation legally required by the tribunal to be taken or made, or to produce any document or thing in his or her power or control legally required by the tribunal to be produced by him or her or to answer any question to which the tribunal may legally require an answer; or (c) does any other thing that would, if the tribunal had been a court of law having power to commit for contempt, have been contempt of that court, the tribunal may, of its own motion or on the motion of a party to the proceeding, state a case to the Divisional Court setting out the facts and that court may inquire into the matter and, after hearing any witnesses who may be produced against or on behalf of that person and after hearing any statement that may be offered in defence, punish or take steps for the punishment of that person in like manner as if he or she had been guilty of contempt of the court. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 13; 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (27). Same (2) Subsection (1) also applies to a person who, (a) having objected under clause 6 (4) (b) to a hearing being held as a written hearing, fails without lawful excuse to participate in the oral or electronic hearing of the matter; or (b) being a party, fails without lawful excuse to attend a pre-hearing conference when so directed by the tribunal. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (17). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (27) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (17) - 28/11/1997 Protection for witnesses 14 (1) A witness at an oral or electronic hearing shall be deemed to have objected to answer any question asked him or her upon the ground that the answer may tend to criminate him or her or may tend to establish his or her liability to civil proceedings at the instance of the Crown, or of any person, and no answer given by a witness at a hearing shall be used or be receivable in evidence against the witness in any trial or other proceeding against him or her thereafter taking place, other than a prosecution for perjury in giving such evidence. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 14 (1); 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (28);. 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 2. (2) Repealed: 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (29). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (28, 29) - 1/04/1995 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 2 - 03/06/2021 Evidence What is admissible in evidence at a hearing 15 (1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), a tribunal may admit as evidence at a hearing, whether or not given or proven under oath or affirmation or admissible as evidence in a court, (a) any oral testimony; and (b) any document or other thing, relevant to the subject-matter of the proceeding and may act on such evidence, but the tribunal may exclude anything unduly repetitious. What is inadmissible in evidence at a hearing (2) Nothing is admissible in evidence at a hearing, (a) that would be inadmissible in a court by reason of any privilege under the law of evidence; or (b) that is inadmissible by the statute under which the proceeding arises or any other statute. Conflicts (3) Nothing in subsection (1) overrides the provisions of any Act expressly limiting the extent to or purposes for which any oral testimony, documents or things may be admitted or used in evidence in any proceeding. Copies (4) Where a tribunal is satisfied as to its authenticity, a copy of a document or other thing may be admitted as evidence at a hearing. Photocopies (5) Where a document has been filed in evidence at a hearing, the tribunal may, or the person producing it or entitled to it may with the leave of the tribunal, cause the document to be photocopied and the tribunal may authorize the photocopy to be filed in evidence in the place of the document filed and release the document filed, or may furnish to the person producing it or the person entitled to it a photocopy of the document filed certified by a member of the tribunal. Certified copy admissible in evidence (6) A document purporting to be a copy of a document filed in evidence at a hearing, certified to be a copy thereof by a member of the tribunal, is admissible in evidence in proceedings in which the document is admissible as evidence of the document. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 15. Use of previously admitted evidence 15.1 (1) The tribunal may treat previously admitted evidence as if it had been admitted in a proceeding before the tribunal, if the parties to the proceeding consent. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (30). Definition (2) In subsection (1), “previously admitted evidence” means evidence that was admitted, before the hearing of the proceeding referred to in that subsection, in any other proceeding before a court or tribunal, whether in or outside Ontario. Additional power (3) This power conferred by this section is in addition to the tribunal’s power to admit evidence under section 15. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (18). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (30) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (18) - 28/11/1997 Witness panels 15.2 A tribunal may receive evidence from panels of witnesses composed of two or more persons, if the parties have first had an opportunity to make submissions in that regard. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (31). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (31) - 1/04/1995 Notice of facts and opinions 16 A tribunal may, in making its decision in any proceeding, (a) take notice of facts that may be judicially noticed; and (b) take notice of any generally recognized scientific or technical facts, information or opinions within its scientific or specialized knowledge. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 16. Interim decisions and orders 16.1 (1) A tribunal may make interim decisions and orders. Conditions (2) A tribunal may impose conditions on an interim decision or order. Reasons (3) An interim decision or order need not be accompanied by reasons. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (32). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (32) - 1/04/1995 Time frames 16.2 A tribunal shall establish and make publicly available guidelines setting out the usual time frame for completing proceedings that come before the tribunal and for completing the procedural steps within those proceedings. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (6); 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 2. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (6) - 14/02/2000 2024, c. 28, Sched. 25, s. 2 - 01/07/2025 Decision; interest Decision 17 (1) A tribunal shall give its final decision and order, if any, in any proceeding in writing and shall give reasons in writing therefor if requested by a party. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 17; 1993, c. 27, Sched. Interest (2) A tribunal that makes an order for the payment of money shall set out in the order the principal sum, and if interest is payable, the rate of interest and the date from which it is to be calculated. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (33). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1993, c. 27, Sched. - 31/12/1991; 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (33) - 1/04/1995 Costs 17.1 (1) Subject to subsection (2), a tribunal may, in the circumstances set out in rules made under subsection (4), order a party to pay all or part of another party’s costs in a proceeding. 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Exception (2) A tribunal shall not make an order to pay costs under this section unless, (a) the conduct or course of conduct of a party has been unreasonable, frivolous or vexatious or a party has acted in bad faith; and (b) the tribunal has made rules under subsection (4). 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Amount of costs (3) The amount of the costs ordered under this section shall be determined in accordance with the rules made under subsection (4). 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Rules (4) A tribunal may make rules with respect to, (a) the ordering of costs; (b) the circumstances in which costs may be ordered; and (c) the amount of costs or the manner in which the amount of costs is to be determined. 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Same (5) Subsections 25.1 (3), (4), (5) and (6) apply with respect to rules made under subsection (4). 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Continuance of provisions in other statutes (6) Despite section 32, nothing in this section shall prevent a tribunal from ordering a party to pay all or part of another party’s costs in a proceeding in circumstances other than those set out in, and without complying with, subsections (1) to (3) if the tribunal makes the order in accordance with the provisions of an Act that are in force on February 14, 2000. 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2). Submissions must be in writing (7) Despite sections 5.1, 5.2 and 5.2.1, submissions for a costs order, whether under subsection (1) or under an authority referred to in subsection (6), shall be made by way of written or electronic documents, unless a party satisfies the tribunal that to do so is likely to cause the party significant prejudice. 2015, c. 23, s. 5. (8), (9) Repealed: 2015, c. 23, s. 5. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (7) - 14/02/2000 2006, c. 19, Sched. B, s. 21 (2) - 22/06/2006 2015, c. 23, s. 5 - 03/11/2015 Notice of decision 18 (1) The tribunal shall send each party who participated in the proceeding, or the party’s representative, a copy of its final decision or order, including the reasons if any have been given, (a) by regular lettermail; (b) by electronic transmission; (c) by telephone transmission of a facsimile; or (d) by some other method that allows proof of receipt, if the tribunal’s rules made under section 25.1 deal with the matter. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34); 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (19); 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (6). Use of mail (2) If the copy is sent by regular lettermail, it shall be sent to the most recent addresses known to the tribunal and shall be deemed to be received by the party on the fifth day after the day it is mailed. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34). Use of electronic or telephone transmission (3) If the copy is sent by electronic transmission or by telephone transmission of a facsimile, it shall be deemed to be received on the day after it was sent, unless that day is a holiday, in which case the copy shall be deemed to be received on the next day that is not a holiday. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34).

Use of other method (4) If the copy is sent by a method referred to in clause (1) (d), the tribunal’s rules made under section 25.1 govern its deemed day of receipt. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34). Failure to receive copy (5) If a party that acts in good faith does not, through absence, accident, illness or other cause beyond the party’s control, receive the copy until a later date than the deemed day of receipt, subsection (2), (3) or (4), as the case may be, does not apply. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (34) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (19) - 28/11/1997 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (6) - 1/05/2007 Enforcement of orders 19 (1) A certified copy of a tribunal’s decision or order in a proceeding may be filed in the Superior Court of Justice by the tribunal or by a party and on filing shall be deemed to be an order of that court and is enforceable as such. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (35); 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1). Notice of filing (2) A party who files an order under subsection (1) shall notify the tribunal within 10 days after the filing. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (35). Order for payment of money (3) On receiving a certified copy of a tribunal’s order for the payment of money, the sheriff shall enforce the order as if it were an execution issued by the Superior Court of Justice. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (35); 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (35) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 19, Sched. C, s. 1 (1) - 22/06/2006 Record of proceeding 20 A tribunal shall compile a record of any proceeding in which a hearing has been held which shall include, (a) any application, complaint, reference or other document, if any, by which the proceeding was commenced; (b) the notice of any hearing; (c) any interlocutory orders made by the tribunal; (d) all documentary evidence filed with the tribunal, subject to any limitation expressly imposed by any other Act on the extent to or the purposes for which any such documents may be used in evidence in any proceeding; (e) the transcript, if any, of the oral evidence given at the hearing; and (f) the decision of the tribunal and the reasons therefor, where reasons have been given. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 20. Adjournments 21 A hearing may be adjourned from time to time by a tribunal of its own motion or where it is shown to the satisfaction of the tribunal that the adjournment is required to permit an adequate hearing to be held. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 21. Correction of errors 21.1 A tribunal may at any time correct a typographical error, error of calculation or similar error made in its decision or order. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (36). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (36) - 1/04/1995 Power to review 21.2 (1) A tribunal may, if it considers it advisable and if its rules made under section 25.1 deal with the matter, review all or part of its own decision or order, and may confirm, vary, suspend or cancel the decision or order. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (20). Time for review (2) The review shall take place within a reasonable time after the decision or order is made. Conflict (3) In the event of a conflict between this section and any other Act, the other Act prevails. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (36). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (36) - 1/04/1995; 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (20) - 28/11/1997 Administration of oaths 22 A member of a tribunal has power to administer oaths and affirmations for the purpose of any of its proceedings and the tribunal may require evidence before it to be given under oath or affirmation. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 22. Powers re control of proceedings Abuse of processes 23 (1) A tribunal may make such orders or give such directions in proceedings before it as it considers proper to prevent abuse of its processes. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 23 (1). Limitation on examination (2) A tribunal may reasonably limit further examination or cross-examination of a witness where it is satisfied that the examination or cross-examination has been sufficient to disclose fully and fairly all matters relevant to the issues in the proceeding. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (37). Exclusion of representatives (3) A tribunal may exclude from a hearing anyone, other than a person licensed under the Law Society Act, appearing on behalf of a party or as an adviser to a witness if it finds that such person is not competent properly to represent or to advise the party or witness, or does not understand and comply at the hearing with the duties and responsibilities of an advocate or adviser. 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (7). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (37) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 21, Sched. C, s. 134 (7) - 1/05/2007 Notice, etc. 24 (1) Where a tribunal is of the opinion that because the parties to any proceeding before it are so numerous or for any other reason, it is impracticable, (a) to give notice of the hearing; or (b) to send its decision and the material mentioned in section 18, to all or any of the parties individually, the tribunal may, instead of doing so, cause reasonable notice of the hearing or of its decision to be given to such parties by public advertisement or otherwise as the tribunal may direct. Contents of notice (2) A notice of a decision given by a tribunal under clause (1) (b) shall inform the parties of the place where copies of the decision and the reasons therefor, if reasons were given, may be obtained. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 24. Appeal operates as stay, exception 25. (1) An appeal from a decision of a tribunal to a court or other appellate body operates as a stay in the matter unless, (a) another Act or a regulation that applies to the proceeding expressly provides to the contrary; or (b) the tribunal or the court or other appellate body orders otherwise. 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (21). Idem (2) An application for judicial review under the Judicial Review Procedure Act, or the bringing of proceedings specified in subsection 2 (1) of that Act is not an appeal within the meaning of subsection (1). R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 25 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1997, c. 23, s. 13 (21) - 28/11/1997 Control of process 25.0.1 A tribunal has the power to determine its own procedures and practices and may for that purpose, (a) make orders with respect to the procedures and practices that apply in any particular proceeding; and (b) establish rules under section 25.1. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (8). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (8) - 14/02/2000 Rules 25.1 (1) A tribunal may make rules governing the practice and procedure before it. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38). Application (2) The rules may be of general or particular application. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38). Consistency with Acts (3) The rules shall be consistent with this Act and with the other Acts to which they relate. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38). Public access (4) The tribunal shall make the rules available to the public in English and in French. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38). Legislation Act, 2006, Part III (5) Rules adopted under this section are not regulations as defined in Part III (Regulations) of the Legislation Act, 2006. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38); 2006, c. 21, Sched. F, s. 136 (1). Additional power (6) The power conferred by this section is in addition to any power to adopt rules that the tribunal may have under another Act. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (38) - 1/04/1995 2006, c. 21, Sched. F, s. 136 (1) - 25/07/2007 Regulations 26 The Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations prescribing forms for the purpose of section 12. 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (41). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (39, 41) - 1/04/1995 Rules, etc., available to public 27 A tribunal shall make any rules or guidelines established under this or any other Act available for examination by the public. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (9). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (9) - 14/02/2000 Substantial compliance 28 Substantial compliance with requirements respecting the content of forms, notices or documents under this Act or any rule made under this or any other Act is sufficient. 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (9). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 12, Sched. B, s. 16 (9) - 14/02/2000 Prohibition on photographs, recordings, dissemination 29 (1) No person shall, (a) take or attempt to take a photograph, audio or video recording or other record capable of producing or transmitting visual or aural representations by electronic means or otherwise, (i) at a hearing, (ii) of any person entering or leaving the room in which a hearing is to be or has been convened, or (iii) of any person in the building in which a hearing is to be or has been convened if there is reasonable ground for believing that the person is there for the purpose of attending or leaving the hearing, other than in an area of the building designated by the tribunal for the purpose and with the person’s consent; (b) publish, broadcast, reproduce or otherwise disseminate a photograph, recording or record taken in contravention of clause (a); or (c) broadcast, reproduce or otherwise disseminate an audio recording described in clause (2) (b). 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 3. Non-application (2) Subsection (1) does not apply with respect to, (a) the unobtrusive making of notes or sketches of events at a hearing by a person; (b) the making of an audio recording at a hearing, unobtrusively and in a manner authorized by the tribunal, by a representative, a party acting on their own behalf or a journalist, for the sole purpose of supplementing or replacing notes; or (c) subject to the authorization of the tribunal, any act referred to in subsection (1), (i) if it is required for the presentation of evidence, the making of a record or any other purpose of the hearing, (ii) with the consent of the parties and witnesses, or (iii) in connection with any ceremonial proceeding. 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 3. Offence and penalty (3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) is guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable to a fine of not more than $25,000. 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 3. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (40) - 1/04/1995 2021, c. 25, Sched. 27, s. 3 - 03/06/2021 30, 31 Repealed: 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (40). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (40) - 1/04/1995 Conflict 32 Unless it is expressly provided in any other Act that its provisions and regulations, rules or by-laws made under it apply despite anything in this Act, the provisions of this Act prevail over the provisions of such other Act and over regulations, rules or by-laws made under such other Act which conflict therewith. R.S.O. 1990, c. S.22, s. 32; 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (42). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (42) - 1/04/1995 33, 34 Repealed: 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (43). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (43) - 1/04/1995 FormS 1, 2 Repealed: 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (44). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 27, s. 56 (44) - 1/04/1995 ______________