IPIC is pleased to have the opportunity to provide our feedback on Bill C-86: A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measures.

We want to begin by commending this government for their leadership and foresight in developing the first National IP Strategy for Canada. Creating a policy and regulatory environment in Canada that rewards businesses who invest in and protect their intellectual property rights is of the utmost importance to the future of the Canadian economy.

With respect to Division 7, Subdivision D of Bill C-86, IPIC believes that a new governance framework will ensure that Canada has a modern, robust, highly trained intellectual property community of professionals to support the Canadian economy. We believe that a self-regulatory body for the IP profession will hold its members to the highest development and ethical standards. This is a key step that will solidify the excellence of the IP profession in Canada and support a strong IP system. The creation of a robust governance framework will place the IP profession alongside other regulated professionals who deliver high quality services under a self-regulation model that serves the public interest.

That said, IPIC has provided below some suggested amendments to the Division 7, Subdivision D that would strengthen the legislation to ensure the immediate and long-term success of the College of Patent and Trademark Agents in Canada.