Competition Bureau

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How does the Bureau deal with complaints

The Bureau conducts its investigations in private and keeps confidential the identity of the source and the information provided. However, if someone has important evidence about breaches to any of the laws under the Bureau's jurisdiction, that person may be asked to testify in court or before the Competition Tribunal.

For complaints under the Competition Act, the information will be examined to determine whether a formal inquiry should be commenced. All inquiries are conducted in private. If an inquiry is opened, the Bureau may contact other customers or competitors to obtain more information.

During the inquiry stage, Bureau staff may use many tools at their disposal to determine the facts of the situation. They can apply for authorization from a court to search premises, examine or seize records, and question witnesses under oath.

For complaints under the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act, and the Precious Metals Marking Act, the information will be examined to determine whether an issue is raised under the legislation. Bureau staff have formal powers of inspection under these Acts, as well as a variety of remedial powers to address issues of non-conformity.

If it is determined that a complaint warrants further investigation, Bureau officers have a number of tools available to resolve competition issues. These tools are outlined in the Bureau's Conformity Continuum and include:

• public education, written opinions, information contacts, voluntary codes of conduct, written undertakings and prohibition orders;
• the legal authority with court authorization to search for and seize documents and other forms of evidence, to take sworn oral evidence and to demand the production of documents and records;
• the ability to refer criminal matters to the Attorney General of Canada, who then decides whether to prosecute before the courts;
• the power to bring civil matters before the Competition Tribunal or other courts, depending on the issue;
• the authority to make presentations and intervene on matters of competition policy before federal and provincial boards, tribunals and commissions such as the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and the National Transportation Agency.