This article was last updated on April 16, 2022
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Recent news confirms that the federal Ethics Commissioner has arranged a meeting to consult with Finance Minister, Jim Flaherty, regarding the letter he wrote to the CRTC. It was previously unfolded that Flaherty has addressed the arm’s-length broadcast regulator, alleging his support of a constituent’s bid to gain a radio licence, regarding which the Prime Minister’s Office quickly defended Mr. Flaherty on Thursday.
Now the Ethics Commissioner, Mary Dawson, has shown concerns to look into the matter personally. Dawson previously cautioned all cabinet ministers to remain vigilant while using their positions when representing constituents. A spokesperson informed media that “Commissioner Dawson is aware of the issue and is following up with Minister Flaherty’s office. We cannot comment further at this time.” It was later reported by The Canadian Press on Thursday that Mr. Flaherty had addressed the letter, almost a year ago, and expressed his support to the Durham Radio Inc.’s for the bid of acquiring the licence of an open spot at 88.1 FM on the Toronto dial. The controversial licence was later granted in September to Barrie’s Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd.
Mr. Flaherty’s letter, posted on March 30, 2012, states that “as the MP for Whitby-Oshawa, I support their proposal and their application.” While along with Mr. Flaherty’s signature, the letter read “the Honourable Jim Flaherty, P.C., M.P. Minister of Finance” and “Minister responsible for the Greater Toronto Area.” An older report posted on the Prime Minister’s website in 2010, titled “Accountable Government: A Guide for Ministers and Ministers of State,” states that “ministers must not intervene, or appear to intervene, with tribunals on any matter requiring a decision in their quasi-judicial capacity, except as permitted by statute.”
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