Following from new legislation passed in late 2006, the Province of Ontario has appointed its first ever Fairness Commissioner to work with regulatory bodies for the recognition of the credentials of internationally trained professionals. The role of Fairness Commissioner is a key component of the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, 2006, which became law on March 1, 2007.

The act, which is also known as Bill 124 is aimed at ensuring internationally trained professionals receive adequate recognition of their credentials in those professions, such as medicine, where practice is overseen by an industry association. The legislation calls for fair, impartial and transparent registration practices in regulated professions. The Fairness Commissioner will be charged with overseeing regular audits of professional practices and reporting to Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration on the implementation of the act.

The individual nominated to fill the Fairness Commissioner role by the Government of Ontario is Jean Augustine, a former federal Member of Parliament. An immigrant herself, having been born in Grenada, Augustine brings a wealth of experience to the role, including serving as Canada’s Minister of State for Multiculturalism and for the status of Women. While serving in parliament Augustine sat for many years on the Standing Committee for Citizenship and Immigration.