Notice regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic (March 18 2020)

The Competition Tribunal is monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation and is taking measures to protect the health and safety of employees, parties and the public. Given the current government and public health information, the Tribunal has put in place the following measures, effective immediately.

Competition Tribunal Offices

The Tribunal remains open for business but the Tribunal premises are closed to the public until further notice. Tribunal Members and employees are equipped to work remotely and will continue to provide services to the parties and the public, as required.

Filing of Case Documents

The Tribunal’s electronic filing system is fully operational and parties should continue to file their documents by electronic transmission in accordance with Rule 12 of the Competition Tribunal Rules. The Tribunal will not allow paper filing for the time being.

Deadlines and Tribunal Hearings

There will be no in-person hearings between now and April 17, 2020. Should circumstances dictate the postponement of a hearing date currently scheduled after April 17, the Tribunal Registry will notify the parties accordingly.

The Tribunal will continue to hear urgent matters, but only by telephone conference. All scheduled deadlines as well as hearings, including hearings of motions, currently scheduled for after April 17, 2020, are maintained. For the time being, requests for extensions of time will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. The Tribunal strongly encourages counsel and the parties to work together when seeking extensions of time.

Updates on Tribunal Website and Flexibility

The Tribunal recognizes that the situation is constantly evolving and information on any changes to the Tribunal’s operations will be posted on the Tribunal website. The Tribunal is committed to being flexible in assisting the parties and the public in dealing with this situation. Please do not hesitate to contact the Tribunal Registry should you have any further questions.

We appreciate your patience and thank you for your understanding and collaboration during these challenging times.

Justice Denis Gascon
Chairperson