The Centre for Free Expression (CFE) has released a review of Alberta’s Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblower Protection) Act (the Act). Authored by Dr. Ian Bron, Senior Fellow and a leading Canadian scholar on whistleblowing, the report offers a comprehensive evaluation of how the legislation is functioning and suggests areas for improvement.
Our office provided information and insight where possible during this assessment. The exchange of knowledge between researchers and those who administer whistleblower protection laws enhances research around the effectiveness of legislation and identifies areas for reform. We appreciate the CFE’s efforts in assessing Alberta’s legislation and thank them for contributing to the ongoing conversation about whistleblower protections.
The CFE report is one in a series that assesses Canadian whistleblowing statutes against a set of evaluation criteria for protection of whistleblowers. It outlines both strengths and challenges within the legislation. Some of the issues raised reflect areas identified as opportunities to strengthen protections for whistleblowers.
Beginning in 2025, the Act will undergo its third scheduled review. In previous reviews, our office has been invited to provide technical advice and recommendations for potential amendments. We look forward to contributing again and appreciate the efforts of all those with a shared desire to improve the legislation and enhance whistleblower protections for Albertans.
Read CFE’s full report here.