Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have some opening comments. The purpose of this bill is to amend the Engineering, Geological and Geophysical Professions Act to remove the requirement that the by-laws of the professional association be approved by the Minister. The by-laws would now come into effect with the approval of the membership of the professional association. This amendment was requested by the president of the professional association in order to allow the association to amend Its by-laws without the delay inherent in having the Department of Justice review the by-law.
The act covers the recognition of the association, the set-up of the governing council, practice, registration, permits, fees, discipline, liability, and offenses and punishment. By-laws cover the internal workings of the association, qualification for membership, categories of membership and a code of ethics for the professions.
The government is moving toward removing the requirement to have a government official, whether it be the Commissioner or the Minister, review the by-laws of professional associations. This amendment allows the association the freedom to manage its affairs without government involvement.
The crucial elements of the governing of the practice and professional association, such as discipline and offenses, remain in the act. Thank you.