Today all fourteen civil society and labour union members of the government’s responsible business advisory body resigned, citing an erosion of trust in the government’s commitment to corporate accountability.
Fifteen months ago, the government announced it would create an independent office with the power to investigate abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad. Instead, it unveiled today a powerless advisory post, little different from what has already existed for years.
Above Ground and sixteen other civil society groups are calling for improvements in accountability and transparency at Export Development Canada as the government reviews the agency’s governing legislation.
The Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability says the government must immediately implement the recommendations of a UN report that calls for a coherent policy to protect against business-related human rights abuse.
Legal and policy reforms are needed to bolster anti-corruption mechanisms at Export Development Canada (EDC), according to a report released today by Above Ground. The publication identifies key weaknesses in EDC’s anti-corruption screening procedures and names several EDC clients investigated and/or charged with corrupt practices.
The Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability is greatly encouraged by the Minister of International Trade’s announcement of the creation of a Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise.
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