Government & Public Policy

Canadian parliament in Ottawa (reflection on glass modern building)

McMillan’s Government and Public Policy team is a recognized leader in government relations and public policy issues, with well-established relationships with key decision makers throughout Canada’s federal, provincial and municipal governments. Our clients benefit, in particular, from our strategic partnership with McMillan Vantage, who deliver targeted and comprehensive government and public relations services. It is a full-service, national public affairs firm and the only such consultancy anchored in a national law firm. Collectively, our experienced team offers government relations counsel, policy and regulatory analysis, and strategic communications services to Canadian and international clients.

Through McMillan Vantage, our lawyers help clients manage risks and maximize opportunities in an increasingly competitive and public marketplace of ideas, policies and corporate strategies. We regularly advise corporations, agencies, non-governmental organizations, associations and governments on government relations and public policy issues. We have initiated legislative changes in key areas of governmental activity including taxation, competition law, business law and the regulation of foreign investment.

McMillan’s Government and Public Policy team is focused on facilitating mutually beneficial relationships between governments’ regulatory activities and the interests of our clients. We support clients by:

Keeping them abreast of legislative developments that could impact their businesses;
Assisting in the preparation of submissions with respect to legislation;
Preparing them for public consultations;
Assisting with the selection of third-party consultants, such as public relations firms and lobbyists;
Assisting with public policy research and analysis;
Advising on lobbyist registration, lobbying compliance and ethical obligations at the federal, provincial, territorial and municipal level;
Advising on election law compliance at all levels of government, including advertising and political financing rules;
Providing guidance on issues relating to conflict of interest and anti-corruption;
Representing corporations, other organizations and executives at all stages of investigations, enforcement proceedings and prosecutions for political and integrity law offences.

Primary Contacts

View All Contacts

Robin M. Junger

Partner, Indigenous Law | Environment

Vancouver

robin.junger@mcmillan.ca Phone

778.329.7523

Timothy John Murphy

Chief Executive Officer | Managing Partner

Toronto

tim.murphy@mcmillan.ca Phone

416.865.7908

Timothy Cullen

Partner, Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Ottawa

timothy.cullen@mcmillan.ca Phone

613.691.6112

Deals and Cases

Related Expertise

Procurement

Insights (106 Posts)

Environmental Priorities in Insolvency Proceedings and the Impact on Lenders: Alberta Court Broadens Redwater Principles

Alberta case Qualex v 12-10 Capital develops line of cases at the intersection of environmental protection and bankruptcy and insolvency law in Canada.

May 24, 2023

Prepare your business to comply with Canada’s new anti-slavery legislation

An in-person seminar aiming to discuss the scope of Bill S-211 and how this new legislation might affect businesses.

Details

June 1, 2023

New Mandatory Reporting Requirement for Businesses: Canada’s Modern Anti-Slavery Bill Becomes Law

Canada imposes new reporting obligations on forced labour, and what it means for Canadian businesses.

May 3, 2023

AI Regulatory Roundup – International Developments in AI Law and Policy

An overview of recent Canadian and international developments related to the regulation of artificial intelligence technologies.

May 2, 2023

Pursuing Ethical Supply Chains: ESG and Human Rights Principles Incorporated in Federal Procurement Policies

Contracting Policy Notice 2023-1 makes the Code of Conduct for Procurement mandatory for all federal procurements and introduces ESG-related responsibilities.

May 1, 2023

Plan for the Ban: New Consultation Launched for Plastics Labelling Framework and Federal Plastics Registry

A discussion on the federal consultations on plastics labelling and registry requirements.

Apr 26, 2023

Canada’s Budget 2023: Compromise and Competition – Climate, Carbon and CCfDs

An update on Canada’s Budget 2023 and the future of carbon contracts for differences (CCfDs) in Canada.

Mar 29, 2023

Change is in the Air: Government of Canada proposing changes to Air Passenger Protection Regulations

The Canadian federal government announced its intention to make significant reforms to strengthen the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (“APPR”).

Mar 29, 2023

Canadian Businesses Should Prepare for New Mandatory Reporting on Supply Chains and Forced Labour

Canada prepares to impose new reporting obligations on forced labour, and what it means for Canadian businesses.

Mar 14, 2023

Recent Updates in the Canadian Psychedelics Landscape

Psychedelics have come to be viewed as a potential therapeutic tool by the general public and government. This bulletin summarizes recent Canadian developments.

Mar 14, 2023

Canada Will Introduce A Foreign Influence Transparency Registry – Government of Canada Opens Consultations on the Registry Thru May 9, 2023

Public Safety Canada, the federal department responsible for national security announced consultations on a foreign influence transparency registry.

Mar 10, 2023

Sunny Days Ahead – The WestJet-Sunwing Merger is Cleared for Takeoff

On March 10, 2023, the Government of Canada approved WestJet's merger with Sunwing pursuant to the Canada Transportation Act.

Mar 10, 2023

Rush Order – Government of Canada Invokes Urgent Operational Requirements to Justify Quick Purchases of Military Goods

Canada's Defence Minister invokes Urgent Operational Requirements in Eastern Europe to buy military hardware using an exceptional procurement mechanism

Mar 10, 2023

Procurement in Ontario: Current State-of-Play

Potential changes to procurement in Ontario include the operationalization of Supply Ontario and "Buy Ontario" legislation.

Mar 8, 2023

One Year On: Economic Sanctions Have Become a Primary Tool of Canadian Foreign Policy and New Russian Sanctions are Imposed

Canada continues to impose sanctions against additional countries, including Sri Lanka, Haiti, and Myanmar, and joins the G7 Enforcement Coordination Mechanism.

Mar 1, 2023

Quebec Superior Court Orders That Corporations Must Provide Information to Police – Even Where Data Stored Abroad

The Quebec Superior Court rules the American companies may have to produce documents stored abroad to aid in Canadian criminal investigations.

Jan 24, 2023

Cleaning Up Canada’s Auto-Emissions – Canada Announces New Manufacturer Sales Targets to Reach the 2035 Transition to 100% Zero-Emission Vehicles

Canada proposes new auto manufacturing targets for zero-emission vehicles beginning for 2026 year models.

Jan 17, 2023

On the Right Track: Canadian Government’s Key Changes to Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations

The Canadian government has announced key changes to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations to streamline cross-border trade of dangerous goods.

Jan 10, 2023

A Foreign Affair at Home Not Abroad – Canada to Consult on the Merits of a Foreign Agent Registry

Canada announces that consultations on a possible "foreign agent registry" will begin soon. What is that and how is it different from a lobbying law?

Jan 9, 2023

Sanctions Pivot: Canada Seeks Forfeiture of Russian-Owned Assets to Fund Reconstruction of Ukraine and Adds Oil Price-Cap Restrictions

Canada, in a first for G7 states, seeks seizure & forfeiture of sanctioned oligarch's assets for use in compensation & reconstruction of Ukraine.

Dec 22, 2022

Modernization of the Investment Canada Act is Underway

The Canadian federal government introduced Bill C-34, An Act to Amend the Investment Canada Act, to modernize Canada’s national security regime.

Dec 12, 2022

A Call to Address Canada’s Transportation Supply Chain Crisis: Final Report – Part III

The Canada Transportation Act contains a few shipper remedies, which are partially or wholly ineffective, but which remain unaddressed.

Nov 16, 2022

Let’s Get Digital – Canadian Government Consults on Model Digital Trade Policy

The Canadian government develops Model International Digital Trade Policy and requests to join the Digital Economic Partnership Agreement.

Nov 1, 2022

British Columbia Privacy Commissioner Releases Guidance on Collecting Personal Information for Political Activities

BC Privacy Commissioner releases guidance on how federal and provincial political organizations can conform to BC's privacy legislation when campaigning.

Nov 1, 2022

A Call to Address Canada’s Transportation Supply Chain Crisis: Final Report – Part II

Modernizing the Rail Transportation System in the National Public Interest

Oct 25, 2022

Green or Grey: Regulators Target Greenwashing, Misleading Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Claims

An overview of risks and best practices for companies in relation to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) claims and disclosure.

Oct 19, 2022

A Call to Address Canada’s Transportation Supply Chain Crisis: Final Report

The National Supply Chain Task Force underscores what rail shippers are facing: the Canadian transportation network is under stress.

Oct 18, 2022

The Case of the Missing Computers: Lessons Learned from Health Canada

A look at the takeaways from the recent audit of Health Canada's IT systems.

Sep 21, 2022

Plan for the Ban: Canada Proposes Plastic Labelling Rules and Federal Plastics Registry

Canada publishes two open consultation papers related to labeling regulations and a federal plastics registry for single-use plastics and plastic packaging.

Sep 14, 2022

Are First Nation Shared Decision-Making and Collaboration Agreements Being Used Illegally?

What do non-treaty agreements mean for people or companies that may be affected by them.

Aug 9, 2022

OSFI Adds to its Existing Technology and Cyber Risk Requirements with Guideline B-13

OSFI issued final Guideline B-13 – Technology and Cyber Risk Management, key takeaways summarized.

Jul 26, 2022

Services, Sensitive Technologies, Luxury Goods, Gold, and Disinformation Sanctions – Plus a Forfeiture Regime: Canada’s Latest Responses to the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Canada has targeted Russia and Belarus with a series of further economic sanctions with asset seizure.

Jul 13, 2022

New AML Requirements for Luxury Goods Likely: The Cullen Commission on Money Laundering Recommendations Respecting Luxury Goods and the Automotive Sector

Cullen Commission of Inquiry into Money Laundering in British Columbia’s AML recommendations for the luxury goods sector (including automotive) are discussed.

Jul 8, 2022

Developers Beware: Changes to O. Reg. 242/08 Under the Endangered Species Act and What They Mean for Projects Already Underway

Companies may be affected by updated requirements under the Endangered Species Act, including prohibitions on harming new species at risk and related exemptions.

Jul 5, 2022

Flair’s Canadian Status Confirmed in Important Ruling

The article analyses the Canadian Transportation Agency decision in Flair and its implications for the airline industry and the regulatory regimes in Canada.

Jun 16, 2022

The Anti-Racism Data Act

BC Government passed the Anti-Racism Data Act to safely collect demographic information to address gaps in BC programs and services.

Jun 15, 2022

Canada Clamps Down on Services Provided to Russia

A description of the June 6, 2022 Canadian sanctions against Russia.

Jun 13, 2022

Canada Poised to Increase Regulation of Forced Labour in Supply Chains

Developments in Canadian regulation of forced labour in supply chains and their potential impacts on Canadian businesses

Jun 7, 2022

Jurisdictional Battle Over The Environment Continues – Canada’s Impact Assessment Legislation Found Unconstitutional

On May 10, 2022, the Alberta Court of Appeal ruled that the federal Impact Assessment Act and related Physical Activities Regulations are unconstitutional.

May 25, 2022

Elections and the Workplace: Know Your Rights and Obligations

Coverage of the 2022 Ontario provincial election discussing the Election Act, employer obligations with respect to voting, and employee political activities.

Apr 21, 2022

Get With the Program: Third Parties and Political Advertising

Coverage of the 2022 Ontario provincial election discussing the Election Finances Act, third parties, and rules concerning political advertising.

Apr 21, 2022

Show Me the Money: Contributions and Doing Business During an Ontario Election

Coverage of the 2022 Ontario provincial election discussing the Election Finances Act, contributions, and rules concerning business during an election.

Apr 21, 2022

Lobbying 101: Everything You Need to Know During the Ontario 2022 Election

Coverage of the 2022 Ontario provincial election for lobbyists, government relations professionals, political parties, and grassroots organizations.

Apr 21, 2022

Budget 2022 Amends Legislation to Tackle Unfairly Traded Imports

Changes announced in Budget 2022 make it easier for Canadian producers to tackle unfairly traded imports.

Apr 13, 2022

Plan for the Ban: Canada Joins UN Countries in World’s First Global Plastic Pollution Treaty

Planning for the World’s First Global Plastic Pollution Treaty

Mar 30, 2022

Ontario Proposes to Postpone Implementation of Phase Two of the Excess Soil Regulation

Ministry proposes to delay implementation of Phase 2 of On-Site and Excess Soil Management Regulation from Jan. 1, 2022 to Jan. 1, 2023.

Mar 15, 2022

Canada Issues Policy Statement on Investments Linked to Russia under the Investment Canada Act

Investments by Russian investors will be subject to enhanced scrutiny and prolonged timelines.

Mar 9, 2022

Wind-up and Hang-up: China Mobile’s Motion to stay an ICA Order Pending Judicial Review Dismissed

Analyzing updates from an Investment Canada Act national security review case to provide key insights to investors into Canada.

Jan 10, 2022

Update re: Adoption & Passing of City of Toronto Inclusionary Zoning Policy

An overview of the most recent updates to the Adoption & Passing of City of Toronto Inclusionary Zoning Policy

Dec 21, 2021

Canada Enters Into Free Trade Negotiations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Canada recently announced it will proceed with free trade agreement negotiations with ASEAN member countries, expanding opportunity for trade and investment.

Nov 30, 2021

New Municipal Tax Recovery, Similar Problems: Alberta’s Bill 77

Bill 77 promises new municipal tax recovery powers for Albertan municipalities, but has some drawbacks that may hinder its effect.

Nov 24, 2021

Privacy Commissioner Releases More Guidance for Video Teleconferencing Companies

Video teleconferencing companies face unique cybersecurity and data privacy risks. The OPC has new guidance on how these companies can best address them.

Nov 3, 2021

Making a Lot out of a Little – Laneway Housing a Niche Market Opportunity for Municipalities, Property Owners, Real Estate Developers and Investors

An overview of laneway suites / housing as means of adding to housing stock in Toronto and beyond.

Oct 25, 2021

Addressing Unique Challenges Faced by Federally Regulated Employers

Federally regulated employers have had to adapt to a number of legal changes and challenges in recent years. This virtual workshop will focus on how to address some of the unique challenges faced by federally regulated employers.

Details

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

China’s Arduous Path to CPTPP Accession – A Myriad of Obstacles with an Improbable Outcome

On September 16, 2021, China submitted its request to accede to the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (“CPTPP”).

Oct 13, 2021

Can Canada and China still learn from each other? Balancing Research Partnerships, National Security and Economic Competitiveness

In this webinar, we will explore how international research partnerships have become tangled in the complex web of national security and economic competitiveness.

Details

Monday, October 18, 2021

Divisional Court confirms Environmental Significance of Ministerial Zoning Orders and Importance of Consultation under the Environmental Bill of Rights, 1993

Review of Divisional Court decision: Ontario’s compliance with Environmental Bill of Rights in passing Bill 197, particularly re: Ministerial Zoning Orders

Sep 13, 2021

Federal Government Launches Consultations on Remedies Against Low-Priced Imports

A review of the stakeholder engagement process for proposed amendments to the Special Import Measures Act and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal Act

Sep 13, 2021

“Time Machine or Cash Machine?”: Federal Procurement Basics #3 (Compensation and other Remedies)

A review of the remedies in a federal procurement complaint to the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT)

Aug 18, 2021

Canadians Heading to the Polls in a Federal Election. Is your Business Ready to Comply with the Canada Elections Act and Lobbying Act during the Campaign?

During the election period, for profit and non-profit companies and charities need to be aware of their Canada Elections Act and Lobbying Act obligations.

Aug 16, 2021

Ontario’s Lobbying Watchdog Wants Stronger, Clearer, Lobbyists Registration Act

Ontario's lobbying czar wants changes made to Ontario's lobbying law that will capture more activity and require more corporations and non-profits to comply.

Aug 10, 2021

Changes on the Menu: Canadian Food Inspection Agency Publishes Consultation Report on Proposed Guidelines for Simulated Meat and Poultry Products

This Bulletin discusses feedback on the CFIA’s proposed new guidelines for plant-based meat and poultry, what could be changing and what the CFIA is doing next.

Jul 20, 2021

City of Toronto’s Current Municipal Comprehensive Review Process

An overview of the City of Toronto's current Municipal Comprehensive Review Process; Request for Employment Land Conversion under the City's Official Plan

Jul 14, 2021

Canada’s new mandatory 100% ZEV target is a rapid charge forward.
What we think this announcement means for OEMs, Canadian industry, and more

Canada has announced a mandatory 2035 target for 100% ZEV sales. McMillan and McMillan Vantage Policy Group share what this may mean for OEMs, industry and more.

Jul 12, 2021

Impending Implementation of Ontario’s Inclusionary Zoning Regime in Toronto and the GTA

An overview of inclusionary zoning policies and their impending implementation in Toronto and the GTA.

Jun 25, 2021

ICMA Green Bond Principles Undergo Minor Facelift

Legal news bulletin discussing recent changes to ICMA Green Bond Principles.

Jun 17, 2021

Will BC’s UNDRIP action plan create compliance challenges under the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the UK Bribery Act or the Criminal Code of Canada?

Will BC’s UNDRIP action plan create compliance challenges under the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the UK Bribery Act Criminal Code of Canada?

Jun 15, 2021

Federal Procurement Basics #2: The Many Grounds for Federal Procurement Challenges: A ‘Keeping It Simple’ Summary

A review of the grounds for filing a federal procurement complaint to the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT)

Jun 1, 2021

Charging Ahead: Alberta and Saskatchewan Joining Forces with Ontario and New Brunswick on Small Modular Reactors

Update on developments in nuclear energy and small modular nuclear reactors in Canada, including the memorandum of understanding that was recently signed.

May 26, 2021

BILL 96 – Top 10 Impacts of the Revised Charter of the French Language on your Business and When to Expect Implementation of Such Revisions

Changes to Québec’s language laws are coming. Here is a top ten list of potential impacts, and the likely timeline and process for adoption.

May 19, 2021

Federal Procurement Update #1: Filing a Complaint at the Canadian International Trade Tribunal: A Sprint Rather than a Marathon

A review of when and how to file a federal procurement complaint to the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT)

May 5, 2021

Is COVID-19 Government Assistance No Strings? No Way! All Lobbyists Have Reporting Requirements

Applying for and/or receiving COVID-19 financial assistance creates reporting obligations for all lobbyists. Have you updated your lobbyist registration lately?

Apr 19, 2021

Canadian Government Expands National Security Guidance

On March 24, 2021, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry announced that the government updated its National Security Guidelines.

Mar 25, 2021

Lobbying Reform Déjà Vu? Canada’s Commissioner of Lobbying Recommends Heightened Obligations for Lobbyists Once Again

Canada’s Commissioner of Lobbying Submits Preliminary Recommendations to House of Commons Committee on federal Lobbying Act reform.

Mar 19, 2021

Canada Updates Official Terrorist Entities List – What It Means for Your Business

The Canadian government has placed the Proud boys on the list of terrorist entities. This announcement has certain key implications for Canadian companies.

Feb 23, 2021

Canada’s Transport Minister Approves Air Transat’s Take-Over by Air Canada

In a long-awaited decision, Canada’s newly appointed Transport Minister approved Air Canada’s acquisition of rival Transat on public interest grounds

Feb 22, 2021

Emerging Competition & Data Privacy Issues for Real Estate Organizations

Changes to Canada’s privacy laws, developments with low-commission brokerages and changes to short-term rental regulations will impact real estate associations.

Feb 2, 2021

The Quick and Dirty on Ontario’s New Excess Soil Regulations

A concise summary of Ontario's new excess soil regulation (O.Reg 406/19) and key takeaways for affected parties.

Jan 25, 2021

Deferred Prosecution Agreements: The Continued Use of DPAs in the Antitrust Sphere in the United States

In this bulletin, we discuss the deferred prosecution agreement recently entered into by Argos USA LLC with the United States Department of Justice.

Jan 19, 2021

Do Not Go Directly to Jail – Just Yet Anyway: Competition Bureau Confirms its View that Buy-Side Agreements between Competitors are not Criminally Unlawful

On November 27, 2020, the Competition Bureau clarified its view that the criminal cartel provisions of the Competition Act do not apply to buy-side agreements.

Nov 30, 2020

COVID-19: July 22nd Update on the Impacts to Development Applications and Hearings

Status update (July 22, 2020) re: land use planning and municipal response to COVID-19 in Ontario; processing applications, appeals, and municipal closures.

Jul 22, 2020

Government Proposes Fundamental Changes to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy

This article provides a detailed analysis of the proposed changes to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy announced by the Government on July 17, 2020.

Jul 21, 2020

Alberta’s Recovery Plan: Invest Alberta and the Invest Alberta Corporation

Overview of Alberta's Recovery Plan announced June 29, 2020 and the new Invest Alberta

Jul 8, 2020

Project Management Amid COVID-19 – The Triage

Best practices for construction project management during the COVID-19 pandemic, and other force majeure circumstances.

Apr 8, 2020

Book Launch Event | Public-Private Partnerships in Canada: Law, Policy and Value for Money

Tim Murphy will discuss his journey and key moments throughout the writing process. The event will feature special guest Hon. Monte McNaughton, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure.

Details

June 19, 2019 - 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm EST

Ontario Proposes Major Changes to the Employment Standards Act, 2000

On October 23, 2018, the Government of Ontario has put forward legislation, titled the Making Ontario Open for Business Act, 2018 (Bill 47)

Oct 26, 2018

Ontario to Make Major Changes to Employment and Labour Standards through the Making Ontario Open for Business Act

The Government of Ontario today introduced legislation to repeal several changes to the province's employment and labour standards legislation made through Bill 148.

Oct 23, 2018

Ontario’s New Cabinet Revealed

On Friday, June 29, 2018, Ontario's new government was sworn in. Who are the new players and what will they bring to their new roles?

Jul 16, 2018

What the new Doug Ford Government means for the Energy Sector – A detailed analysis

With a new provincial government now in control of Ontario's policy landscape, we are pleased to provide insight into what lies ahead for the Energy sector.

Jul 4, 2018

Ontario Welcomes New Cabinet – Expect Quick Action

On June 29, 2018, Ontario welcomed a new Premier, a new Provincial Government and a new Cabinet.

Jun 30, 2018

Navigating Change: Post Election Insights

McMillan LLP and McMillan Vantage Policy Group invite you to our ‘Post-Election Insights’ event. Our panel of government relations experts have deep political knowledge and first-hand experience with the campaigns.

Details

June 20, 2018 - 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM

Canada’s Use of its National Security Power

The Government of Canada's decision to reject the proposed acquisition of Aecon, a major Canadian construction services firm, by China Communications

Jun 1, 2018

BC excavator’s court case takes a dig at municipal procurement policies undermined by the CFTA & CETA

Is the use of reprisal clauses (also called litigation exclusion provisions) in municipal procurement policies and tender documents about to hit rock bottom?

Mar 21, 2018

A Thunderbolt Decision on Métis Rights:Daniels v Canada (Indian Affairs and Northern Development)[1]

A Thunderbolt Decision on Métis Rights: Daniels v Canada (Indian Affairs and Northern Development)1

Apr 28, 2016

Delivery Like It’s 1999: Ontario Proposes Update to Franchise Disclosure Law

Delivery Like It's 1999: Ontario Proposes Update to Franchise Disclosure Law

Apr 26, 2016

In this Great Future, You Can’t Forget Your Past – Update to the Government of Canada’s Integrity Regime Provides Clarity, Includes General Anti-Avoidance Provisions

In this Great Future, You Cant Forget Your Past – Update to the Government of Canadas Integrity Regime Provides Clarity, Includes General Anti-Avoidance Provisions

Apr 6, 2016

Lexpert Seminar Toronto – Managing Regulatory Risks: Compliance, Inspections and Investigations

Our expert faculty will provide their "lessons learned" and best practices for general counsel, in-house lawyers, compliance and risk management professionals dealing with these everyday challenges.

Details

December 2, 2015 - 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM