In response to what the government says are concerns about potential overreach by regulated professional bodies in Alberta, the provincial government is launching an engagement initiative to protect individual freedom of expression. This initiative, set to commence this fall, will directly involve input from affected professionals.
The review will encompass eleven ministries overseeing 118 regulated professions governed by 67 regulatory bodies. These ministries will gather information and engage with professional regulatory bodies, relevant organizations, and experts to inform policy decisions.
Key focus areas will include whether regulatory practices extend beyond professional competencies and ethics to issues of freedom of expression, compulsory training unrelated to professional skills, and handling complaints. Some professions may be excluded from the review if they do not have self-regulation, are not yet regulated, lack mechanisms to handle complaints, or have minimal regulatory requirements beyond certification.
The government's plan also includes potential legislative changes that would clarify the scope of authority for professional regulatory bodies, ensuring they focus solely on regulating members’ professional competence and behaviour. These bodies are tasked with protecting the public interest by establishing standards of competence and conduct for their members and addressing any failures to meet these standards.
Officials said this effort is part of the province's broader commitment to upholding the civil liberties of all Albertans. Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the importance of freedom of expression as a foundational principle of democracy.
"We’re committed to standing up for Albertans’ freedom, which includes ensuring they are not coerced into self-censorship due to threats from their regulatory bodies," she stated.
Smith reiterated that regulatory organizations must balance maintaining competence and ethics while respecting the rights of their members. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects the right to freedom of expression.
Justice and Attorney General Mickey Amery echoed these sentiments, noting that professionals have raised concerns about facing complaints and disciplinary actions for expressing personal beliefs unrelated to their work.
"This situation could lead to self-censorship and infringe on their ability to speak freely. We are initiating this review to ensure that members’ rights and freedoms are protected," Amery said.
Overall, the province underlined that the engagement initiative aims to foster a comprehensive review process that allows Alberta's professionals to voice their concerns and experiences while ensuring that regulatory oversight does not infringe upon their rights and freedoms.
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