Gregory Smolynec
Deputy Commissioner, Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC)·0 communications in the past year
Lobbied by
Canadian Bankers Association
3Discussions relating to the legislative, regulatory, and policy developments related to digital currencies and cryptoassets Providing input on the prudential regulation of the banking sector Providing input on amendments to the Bank Act Providing input on federal budget measures that may impact the banking sector Discussions on supporting womens advancement, career opportunities, and equitable outcomes in the financial services sector Discussing the Accessible Canada Act with the purpose of identifying, removing and preventing barriers for people with disabilities Discussions on strategies to mitigate tariff risks and navigate the review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement Providing input on effective Artificial Intelligence regulation to balance risks and foster innovation Providing input on the regulatory framework to facilitate the process to become a federal credit union and support their operations Discussing plans on the Data Collection Modernization initiative Providing views on the Macroeconomic Stress Test (MST) 2.0 review Discussing Bill C-27 – Digital Charter Implementation Act, 2022, relating to the privacy and artificial intelligence provisions Discussions relating to the efficiency and effectiveness of the financial sector regulatory system Discussions on consumer issues relating to potential postal strike ensuring an appropriate scope of guidance Providing inputs on criminal interest rate as it relates to the calculation of the rate and exclusions Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions guidelines with respect to capital adequacy requirements, prudential limits and restrictions, accounting and disclosure, and sound business and financial practices Providing inputs on OSFI regulations and draft guidelines including in connection with culture, integrity and security, third-party risk, and operational risk Providing input on the development of the Consumer-Driven Banking Framework Providing inputs on Basel III Implementation with respect to capital floor phase-in and risk weights Providing inputs on Competition Act amendments Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA): seeking workable, practical approaches in the reform of PIPEDA Excise Tax Act with respect to Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) Support the development of an innovative, efficient, and secure payments ecosystem in Canada that benefits consumers Support the goals outlined in the National Cyber Security Strategy and collaborate with government, including the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, to strengthen Canadas cyber resiliency The Access to Basic Banking Services: seeking to clarify appropriate identification for opening accounts and to make account opening procedures more workable U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA), trade agreements with other jurisdictions, World Trade Organization rules regarding cross-border trade in financial services Support the Government initiative of modernizing the Employment Equity Act and provide input to further strengthen the Act. Discussion relating to agricultural financing, including the efficient administration of the Advance Payments Program and the Canada Loan Administration Act Discussions relating to the development of Financial Consumer Protection Framework and voluntary commitments to promote protection for consumers Capital markets statutory, regulatory and self-regulatory organization regime applicable to banks as corporate issuers and their provincially regulated subsidiaries that are capital markets participants Discussion relating to housing finance framework, including reforms to expand housing supply, mortgage underwriting regulations and covered bonds Providing inputs on climate standards and disclosures Corporate governance statutory and regulatory regime for banks Canada Labour Code with respect to (i) impact on bank management of human resources, (ii) review of Part III of the Canada Labour Code, (iii) flexible work
BMO Financial Group
1The Consumer Driven Banking Act and related regulations as it applies to banks The federal governments framework for stablecoins and digital assets Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation Act as it relates to banks and the administration of the deposit insurance framework Federal government programs and policies related to Artificial Intelligence regulation Housing finance framework, including reforms to expand housing supply, mortgage underwriting regulations and covered bonds Financial institutions with respect to Canada/US relationship and trade policy Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions guidelines with respect to capital, liquidity, and non-financial risk The Canadian Payments Act, as it relates to management of Canadas payment system and payments modernization The modernization of the supervisory framework for financial institutions as it relates to the responsibility for administering prudential and consumer measures Requirements for financial institutions as they relate to corporate governance rules under the Bank Act Promotion of the importance of a competitive financial sector in achieving improved economic development in Canadian regions Providing inputs with respect to capital requirements as they relate to Basel III and lending for businesses Official languages policy as it relates to financial services. Federal government programs and policies supporting growth for small businesses Federal government programs and policies respecting financing for infrastructure projects Federal government programs and policies on employment and training as they pertain to financial institutions Federal government programs and policies respecting consumers as they pertain to relationships with financial institutions Federal government programs respecting financing for the agriculture industry Federal government programs respecting financial services for Indigenous communities The Bank Act and the National Housing Act as they relate to potential measures affecting housing affordability and lending Promotion of resources to support mental health and well-being of Canadians Promotion of financial services available to finance Canadian infrastructure development; sharing of international best practices with respect to infrastructure policy, particularly in terms of options for project financing arrangements Privacy legislation and acts with respect to the banking industrys collection, use and protection of personal information Office of Superintendent of Financial Institutions Guidelines regarding accounting rules regulating financial institutions Income Tax Act with respect to corporate income tax, capital tax, international taxation, personal taxation, and registered saving products Impact of federal national security policy as it relates to the banking sector Financial services policy with respect to study of retirement income security Federal government programs and policies to combat financial crimes Federal government programs and policies related to sustainability, natural resources and climate change in support of achieving net zero targets Federal government position with regard to ongoing discussions on international financial regulation reform, as it pertains to Canadian banks Federal government policies affecting Canadas payment systems as well as access to financial data Bank Act with respect to its impact on financial sector
CANADIAN IMPERIAL BANK OF COMMERCE ( CIBC)
1The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, initiatives for enhancement of reporting mandatory information, and risk assessment methodology. The introduction of policies, programs or legislation related to "Open Banking". The Canadian labour force and labour mobility as it relates to the Express Entry program. Policies related to Canadian economic growth, and international trade. Policies related to Canada's development of natural resources. Policies related to asset recycling and industry investment in public infrastructure development . Policies and programs that affect the Canadian housing market and lending practices. Policies and programs related to gender diversity, inclusion and accessibility. Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), the Privacy Act, and any legislation and associated regulations with regard to privacy and security, identity theft risks, use and protection of information Payment Processing System with regard to rates, fees, oversight of credit and debit procedures Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Act (OSFI) and regulations, in respect of regulatory compliance for banks Immigration policies and programs to address labour shortages and market needs. Canadian Payments Act, as it applies to applicable legislative reviews and the government's Payment's Modernization initiative. Canada Labour Code, Parts II and III Bank Act and regulations, in respect of the five year financial system review, as well as any changes resulting from the review.
CANADIAN MARKETING ASSOCIATION
1Discussions on the collection, handling, and use of data by companies and government institutions. Engagement with government on taxation matters, including proposed digital services tax. Provide input on immigration and training policies that support Canadians in finding meaningful employment and assist employers in securing skilled workers, particularly in areas such as marketing and AI. Engage in dialogue on the impact of trade agreements and tariffs, including the CUSMA, on marketing and its related services. Engage in discussions and consultations regarding the evolution of legislation, such as privacy, artificial intelligence and intellectual property laws that impact the competitiveness of marketing practices. Contribute insights to policy development aimed at growing Canada's digital economy to support competitiveness, including AI activities in the marketing sector. Engage in discussions regarding the evolution of privacy laws and regulations that impact marketing practices. Our aim is to contribute to the development of policies that effectively protect consumers while supporting innovation and economic growth in Canada's marketing sector. Competition Act: Discussions with government to ensure competition law and enforcement (with regards to deceptive marketing, misleading advertising provisions, and new measures related to competition in the digital economy) serves marketers and consumers.
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association
1Border/port security policy, capacity, and federal-provincial coordination to combat auto theft. Ensure connected vehicle security and national security activities meet the intended objectives in a manner that is efficient with fully aligned outcomes with the U.S. Competitive industrial policies and supports such as the Strategic Innovation Fund. Revisions to the Workplace Hazardous Materials information system and inclusion of globally Harmonized System clarification and labelling of chemicals must recognize the integration production facilities and processes in Canada and the U.S. Regulatory requirements for conventional alternative and renewable fuels and associated fuel quality standards to support vehicle emission control technology and vehicle performance. Promote transportation infrastructure and policies to support testing and deployment of evolving vehicle technologies such as connected vehicles and automated vehicles aligned across Canada and with the U.S.; ensure efficient cross-border movement of vehicles for testing. Promote trade infrastructure to support the automotive manufacturing supply chain. Promote enhancements to highway infrastructure, including that for connected vehicle and automated vehicle technologies; transportation and border infrastructure that support the efficient movement of goods in a just-in-time supply chain environment. Ensure efficiencies in reporting fuel consumption data for the annual fuel consumption guide; ensure website and fuel economy labels are consistent with those in the U.S. Trade agreement negotiation and implementation that maximizes commercial benefits and export opportunities. Federal privacy, AI, cybersecurity-related legislation and regulation; Canadian Anti-spam legislation and regulation; Competition Act amendments; related to the development of new advancements in vehicle technology and in-vehicle communication. Ensure regulatory requirements for vehicle safety and supporting programs and policies meet the intended safety objectives and are aligned and synchronized with the U.S. Ensure the requirements of the Chemical Management plan are developed and applied in a manner that achieves the government's objectives and does not disrupt vehicle manufacturing operations and vehicles and new vehicle battery operations. Ensure the implementation of the new Canadian Environmental Protection Act is applied in a manner that does not disrupt manufacturing operations, vehicles, and vehicle battery operations. Ensure the alignment of Canada and U.S. vehicle emission and greenhouse gas standards, for light duty (2025 and beyond), and heavy duty vehicles (2019 and beyond) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. Ensure that federal ZEV policies support consumer uptake and demand, and comprehend the integrated nature of the auto industry and the need for alignment with U.S. federal ZEV policies and programs. Ensure that the proposed Clean Electricity Regulations do not impede the uptake and adoption of ZEVs and building out ZEV charging infrastructure. Ensure low EI rates are maintained and do not unreasonable raise the cost of doing business in Canada, or negatively impact competitiveness for new investment Ensure any further review of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act is applied in a manner that achieves the governments objectives and does not disrupt manufacturing operations and vehicles. Ensure an automotive strategy provides for a competitive environment that encourages maintenance of current and new automotive investment. Ensure alignment of Canada U.S. harmonized Tier 3 and beyond vehicle criteria air emission standards and supporting fuel quality requirements Employment and Training maintaining a strong apprenticeships system across Canada for a skilled workforce. Ensure there is an efficient temporary international worker process to allow for specialized expertise that is required for company-specific tasks. Data privacy framework that comprehends the develop
Canadian Western Bank
1Housing policies and CMHC programs National Security/Security in respect of its implications for financial institutions. Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Regulations with respect to the proposed changes Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) as it applies to the banking industrys collection, use, disclosure, and protection of personal information Payment Clearing and Settlement Act as it applies to the five year financial system review Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Act as it applies to regulation and compliance Investment Canada Act as it applies to competitiveness Income Tax Act as it applies to corporate taxation, investment, competitiveness and registered savings products Financial Consumer Agency of Canada Act as it applies to consumer protection Employment Equity Act as it applies to banks as employers Competition Act as it applies to banks and competitiveness Canadian Payments Association Act as it applies to the five year financial system review Canada Small Business Financing Act as it applies to credit for SMEs Canada Labour Code as it applies to banks as employers Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation Act as it applies to the five year financial system review Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act in respect of its implications for banks Bank of Canada Act as it applies to the five year financial system review Bank Act and other financial services legislation as they apply to financial institutions in the context of the five year financial system review Anti-Spam legislation as it applies to anti-spam requirements
IBM Canada
1Communicating with government officials about the Strategic Innovation Fund ("SIF"), more specifically funding for innovation. Communicating with government officials about the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, more specifically retaining technology neutrality. Communicating with government officials about the Industrial Regional Benefits Program, more specifically ensuring that IBMs products and services are eligible under the program. Communicating with government officials about the federal task force (that was recently announced by the Prime Minister of Canada) that will review service delivery, identify gaps and areas for improvement, and make recommendations to ensure Canadians from coast to coast to coast receive the highest quality of service. Communicating with government officials about temporary foreign workers (TFWs), more specifically about policies and programs related to: (i) the entry of TFWs, (ii) intra-company transfers of TFWs, (iii) prevailing wages, and (iv) the establishment of a trusted employers system for TFWs. Communicating with government officials about solutions to help facilitate the digitization of government services and agencies. Communicating with government officials about procurement policies and procedures, more specifically the Government of Canadas Integrity Framework. Communicating with government officials about its Policy on Management of Information Technology, more specifically about using and increasing investment in innovative technologies such as Cloud computing and software analytics. Communicating with government officials about international trade agreements, including the federal governments proposed model digital trade agreement, on matters related to the information technology sector, including data governance. Communicating with government officials about Canadas Digital Economy Strategy, more specifically providing recommendations to the Government of Canada on how to encourage global investment in jobs and innovation within Canada. Communicating with government officials about Budget 2023-24, more specifically about (i) strategic investments that will result in administrative savings, (ii) strategic investments in innovation-related initiatives, and (iii) strategic investments in strengthening supply chains. Communicating with government officials about Bill C-27 (Digital Charter Implementation Act, 2022), more specifically those provisions that apply to data protection. Communicating with government officials about Bill C-26 (Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act), more specifically about the proposed amendments applying to cybersecurity. Communicating with government officials about artificial intelligence ("AI"), more specifically the "Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems" (September 2023). Communicating with government officials, in general, about regional economic development. The goal of these communications is to advocate for robust regional economic development strategies.
ROYAL BANK OF CANADA
1Financing infrastructure projects, as it relates to investments by insurers. Discussions relating to the development of Financial Consumer Protection Framework and voluntary commitments to promote protection for consumers. Communicating with the government on the 2026 Spring Economic Update, including their plan to introduce Canadas first sovereign wealth fundthe Canada Strong Fund. Discussions with respect to federal government policies to improve the economic potential, contribution and capacity of Canada's Indigenous communities. Capital markets statutory, regulatory and self-regulatory organization regime applicable to banks as corporate issuers and their provincially regulated subsidiaries that are capital markets participants. Discussions regarding general economic conditions and fiscal policy that can stimulate economic growth, competitiveness and social progress. Providing inputs on climate standards and disclosures. Providing input on the prudential regulation of the banking sector. Providing input on federal budget measures that may impact the banking sector. Discussions on policies, legislation, or regulations related to stablecoins and other digital assets. Financial Institutions, with respect to the Canadian regulatory framework. Financial institutions with respect Canada/US relationship and trade policy. Providing inputs on Basel III Implementation with respect to capital floor phase-in and risk weights Advocate for globally competitive policies that position artificial intelligence as a positive economic driver, and support the responsible development, deployment, and use of AI in business. Prescription drugs - Seeking to raise awareness about prescription drug & workplace benefit coverage. Federal government programs and policies respecting consumers as they pertain to relationships with financial institutions. The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, initiatives for enhancement of reporting mandatory information, and risk assessment methodology. Work with the government to protect Canadians against fraud and scams. Providing input on the development of the Consumer-Driven Banking Framework Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions guidelines with respect to capital adequacy requirements, prudential limits and restrictions, accounting and disclosure, and sound business and financial practices Income Tax Act as it applies to corporate taxation, personal taxation, registered saving products, investment and competitiveness. Support the goals outlined in the National Cyber Security Strategy and collaborate with government, including the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, to strengthen Canadas cyber resiliency. The financial sector regulatory framework as it relates to electronic payments, credit, debit and interchange rates. Regulatory review of the proposed acquisition of HSBC Canada. Policies and programs that affect the Canadian housing market and lending practices. Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), the Privacy Act, and any legislation and associated regulations with regard to privacy and security, identity theft risks, use and protection of information. Payment Clearing and Settlement Act as it applies to the five year financial system review. Over-the-counter (OTC) Derivatives: seeking to void duplicative OTC derivatives regulation and negative effects on the competitiveness of Canadian businesses and further negotiations regarding derivatives regulation with foreign regulators in order to avoid duplication of requirements. Initiatives related to gender diversity, inclusion and accessibility as they apply to financial institutions. Financial Consumer Agency of Canada Act as it applies to consumer protection. Employment Equity Act as it applies to banks as employers. Discussions to understand and determine the nature of the banking industrys role in facilitating COVID-19 government benefit programs and about the possible challen
Scotiabank
1Discussions around defence spending and the Defence Investment Agency as it relates to financial institutions Stablecoin Act in respect to the government's strategy on digital assets Providing input on federal budget measures that may impact the banking sector Income Tax Act as it applies to corporate taxation, personal taxation, registered saving products, investment, and competitiveness. Data and artificial intelligence policy, as it relates to financial institutions. Discussions on how to mitigate tariff risks and ensure the financial sectors views are properly captured in trade dialogues. Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Regulations, with respect to a number of issues including identification requirements Financial Institutions, with respect to the Canadian regulatory framework. Financial Institutions with respect to the review of the global and Canadian regulatory framework. Financial Institutions, as it relates to consumer protection Legislation and regulation as it relates to data policy and governance issues International Trade, with respect to the Government of Canada's international relations strategy as it relates to the government's diplomatic and trade relations with Latin America and specifically the Pacific Alliance. Financial Institutions with respect to Environment, Social and Governance issues (ESG). Financial Institutions, with respect to small business banking Financial institutions, as it relates to housing Cyber Security policy as it applies to Financial Institutions Agricultural Support Programs in respect to lending programs
TELUS
1Advocacy regarding pending CRTC review of Wireless Code Replacement Worker Legislation - TELUS is interested in legislation that bans replacement workers during a labour dispute as it would hinder our ability to operate and provide ongoing service to customers. Providing input to the government for development of an anti-fraud strategy to create an integrated fraud takedown framework. Discussions regarding federal support for science and research talent development, with a focus on creating public-private partnerships that enhance education and training opportunities. These efforts aim to advance social good by increasing the participation of women and marginalized groups in the digital economy and STEM sectors. Developing protocols for Canadas Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System Advocacy for potential amendments to the Copyright Act, with respect to updating unclear regulation of Internet Service Providers. Advocacy regarding fibre-to-the-premises wholesale access; including discussions about TELUS' expansion and extended offerings. Advocacy regarding improving resilience and redundancy in TELUS network, including the potential to expand remote network connectivity and build out critical infrastructure in the North. Communicating with the government about how to support adopting digital tools in the agriculture sector. Advocacy concerning the development and implementation of national artificial intelligence policies, including but not limited to the Sovereign AI Compute Strategy and the AI Compute Access Fund. Informing officials about TELUS' plans to monetize passive infrastructure. Informing Federal officials about the risks posed by copper theft to public safety and telecommunications infrastructure, and advocating for enhanced collaboration between governments (provincial and federal) and industry to address this growing issue effectively. Advocating for stricter regulations around theft and damage of telecommunications infrastructure through Bill C-26: An Act respecting cyber security, amending the Telecommunications Act and making consequential amendments to other Acts. Review of the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) as relates to communications and data service providers obligations Regulatory environment affecting the Canadian wireless market, including regulatory framework with regard to the requirements around rural network infrastructure builds, the policy framework around spectrum auction rules and regulations on the purchase of existing Canadian wireless companies. Potential Amendments to the Broadcasting and Telecommunication Acts, with respect to streamlining regulation of the broadcasting and telecommunication industry. Policy framework with respect to the relationship between digital/wireless connectivity and climate policy. Policy Framework with regard to the terms and conditions of auction for Spectrum Licences Informing Federal officials around TELUS initiatives in the Health Care field and communicating the need for increased cooperation in developing next generation health care services between all levels of Government. Critical infrastructure and cyber security - protection of facilities, networks, technology, assets and systems. Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission review of Basic Telecommunications Services Broadcasting Policies Relating to Specialty Television Broadcasting Policies Relating to Conventional Television Broadband Canada – Connect to Innovate program which is of interest to TELUS, with respect to advancing rural and remote network connectivity in Canada. Bills related to lawful access obligations that will have a direct impact on the Company from a financial and operational perspective, as well as impact on TELUS customers from a privacy perspective, and with respect to obligations imposed on carriers with respect to intercept and subscriber information. As a supplier to the Government of Canada, TELUS regularly engages in di