Lobbied Canada

Command Palette

Search for a command to run...

Matthew O'Connell

Deputy Director Financial Sector Policy, Finance Canada (FIN)424 communications in the past year

Lobbied by

Canadian Bankers Association

35

Discussions 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 women’s 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 Canada’s 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

Cohere

24

Discuss issues related to international competitiveness of the domestic AI industry. Provide subject matter (AI) expertise to the Canadian AI Safety Institute team where it might be helpful across a number of areas including opportunities for research and safety practices. Discussions regarding digital policy and legislation, including as it relates to artificial intelligence (AI) and data protection, privacy and reduction of online harms. Discussions with officials regarding the Canada-US bilateral relationship. AI adoption including updating procurement policies.

Discussions regarding digital policy and legislation, including as it relates to artificial intelligence (AI) and data protection, privacy and reduction of online harms. AI adoption including updating procurement policies. Discuss issues related to international competitiveness of the domestic AI industry. Provide subject matter (AI) expertise to the Canadian AI Safety Institute team where it might be helpful across a number of areas including opportunities for research and safety practices. Discussions with officials regarding the Canada-US bilateral relationship.

PAA Advisory

Heidelberg Materials

16

Seeking funding from Innovation Science and Economic Development, Strategic Innovation Fund, for the construction of a Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage Facility Advocating for a Carbon Capture Utilization Storage Investment Tax Credit

Canadian Payments Association (dba Payments Canada)

15

General discussions regarding the Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act and associated regulations. Engagement with government stakeholders regarding the governance, modernization, resilience, and security of Canada's payment clearing and settlement infrastructure. This includes matters such as the Real-Time Rail, digital payments, fraud and scams, and cybersecurity. Engagement with government stakeholders about reviewing the Canadian Payments Act. Seeking government funding relating to participation in the implementation of consumer-driven banking in Canada. Engagement with government stakeholders regarding regulations to be made under the Consumer-Driven Banking Act, and discussions on implementation-related enabling conditions and support structures. Seeking amendments to regulations under the Canadian Payments Act, including those relating to compliance and Payments Canada’s membership. General discussions regarding the proposed Financial Crimes Agency Act. Engagement with government stakeholders on program support or other support to ensure the global competitiveness of Canada's Real Time Rail payment infrastructure. Engagement with government stakeholders regarding Payments Canada's legislative framework related to unanticipated costs. Engagement with government stakeholders regarding funding model frameworks.

CANADIAN IMPERIAL BANK OF COMMERCE ( CIBC)

13

Financial Sector policies that relate to retail banking products and services offered by CIBC. Policies related to taxation policy and the Canadian Revenue Agency of Canada. Policies that relate to stemming financial crimes in Canada (The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, initiatives for enhancement of reporting mandatory information, financial scams and fraud, and risk assessment methodology). The introduction of policies, programs or legislation related to "Consumer-driven Banking". Policies related to the adoption and development of Artificial Intelligence and related technologies. Legislation and regulations as it relates to Canada’s payment system and Payments Canada. Legislation and regulations related to Labour practices. 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. Bank Act and regulations, in respect of the five year financial system review, as well as any changes resulting from the review.

The 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.

Scotiabank

13

Discussions 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 sector’s 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

The Toronto-Dominion Bank

12

Work with the government to protect Canadians against fraud and scams. Stablecoins Act in respect to the government's strategy on digital assets Artificial Intelligence in respect to the government's AI strategy Natural resources in respect to the development of Canada's natural resources including energy, minerals, forests and water. Imposition of tariffs and renewal of Canada, US, Mexico trade agreement Financial Services Policy in respect to adhering to banking. Cyber Security Policy as it applies to financial institutions Consumer Issues as it pertains to government changes in policies in relation to financial institutions Privacy Act as it applies to the protection of customer and bank information Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) Review in respect to providing input on privacy regulations Income Tax Act as it applies to corporate taxation, investment and international taxation. Housing Policy as it applies to financial institutions Diversity and Inclusion Policy as it applies to financial institutions Data Transfer Policy as it applies to financial institutions Climate Change Strategy in respect to government's plans for a strategy on climate change Canadian Payments Association Act in respect to the five year financial system review Canada Labour Code in respect to employment standards Bank Act in respect to the five year financial system review. Agricultural Support Programs in respect to lending programs

BMO Financial Group

11

The Consumer Driven Banking Act and related regulations as it applies to banks The federal government’s 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 Canada’s 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 industry’s 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 Canada’s payment systems as well as access to financial data Bank Act with respect to its impact on financial sector

Canada's Venture Capital and Private Equity Association

11

CVCA previously co-administered the Start Up Visa Program's Venture Capital stream in partnership with the IRCC. The program allowed Venture Capital funds in CVCA's membership to apply for designated entity status and recommend entrepreneurs and start ups in their portfolio to apply for Canadian permanent residency. Throughout CVCA's contractual relationship with IRCC, the program led to a select and curated number of entrepreneurs growing businesses in Canada with financial backing. CVCA engaged in ongoing conversations with IRCC and provided regular reports. IRCC terminated all SUV contractual relationships in 2024, however, CVCA remains engaged in proactive conversations with IRCC Program officials who oversee the SUV program and who have relationships with CVCA's designated members. CVCA sees value in this program and maintains communication with IRCC on possible future improvements. The CVCA advocates for policies and a regulatory environment that is conducive to stimulating investment. A competitive tax and investment regime that rewards the risks associated with the private capital asset?class is vital for the growth of private equity and venture capital across economic sectors. CVCA’s efforts ensure Canadian companies can access necessary funding amidst challenges such as tightening credit markets, competition for capital, and economic uncertainties, to drive innovation and economic growth, ultimately fostering a resilient and diversified economy for future generations. CVCA also advocates for sustained and predictable access to capital, championing public-private co-investment initiatives. The Venture Capital Action Plan/Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative is still rolling out, matching private capital allocations to disbursed government dollars. CVCA continues to engage with industry and government to ensure awareness within the VC ecosystem and monitoring the flow of funds, underscoring the importance of Canada's VC Emerging Managers and their important role in allocating capital to riskier and underserved corners of the innovation ecosystem. The CVCA actively advocates for a strong and competitive tax and investment environment that attracts and rewards private investment in Canadian entrepreneurial ventures. We provide valuable insights and data to support effective tax policies. Strategically crafted policies can ensure that Canada remains an attractive destination for private capital, which is necessary to drive economic growth, job creation, and innovation. CVCA engages with policymakers to convey perspectives from the private capital industry, and the current economic context.

CVCA previously co-administered the Start Up Visa Program's Venture Capital stream in partnership with the IRCC. The program allowed Venture Capital funds in CVCA's membership to apply for designated entity status and recommend entrepreneurs and start ups in their portfolio to apply for Canadian permanent residency. Throughout CVCA's contractual relationship with IRCC, the program led to a select and curated number of entrepreneurs growing businesses in Canada with financial backing. CVCA engaged in ongoing conversations with IRCC and provided regular reports. IRCC terminated all SUV contractual relationships in 2024, however, CVCA remains engaged in proactive conversations with IRCC Program officials who oversee the SUV program and who have relationships with CVCA's designated members. CVCA sees value in this program and maintains communication with IRCC on possible future improvements. CVCA was a designated entity by the IRCC to co-administer the Start Up Visa Program, through which Venture Capital funds in CVCA's membership could support entrepreneurs and start ups applying for Canadian permanent residency. This program led to a select and curated number of entrepreneurs growing businesses in Canada, with financial backing. Throughout the program, CVCA engaged in ongoing conversations with IRCC to ensure program continuity. CVCA sees value in reinstating this program and maintains communication with IRCC on possible future improvements. The CVCA advocates for policies and a regulatory environment that is conducive to stimulating investment. A competitive tax and investment regime that rewards the risks associated with the private capital asset?class is vital for the growth of private equity and venture capital across economic sectors. CVCA’s efforts ensure Canadian companies can access necessary funding amidst challenges such as tightening credit markets, competition for capital, and economic uncertainties, to drive innovation and economic growth, ultimately fostering a resilient and diversified economy for future generations. CVCA also advocates for sustained and predictable access to capital, championing public-private co-investment initiatives. The Venture Capital Action Plan/Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative is still rolling out, matching private capital allocations to disbursed government dollars. CVCA continues to engage with industry and government to ensure awareness within the VC ecosystem and monitoring the flow of funds, underscoring the importance of Canada's VC Emerging Managers and their important role in allocating capital to riskier and underserved corners of the innovation ecosystem. The CVCA actively advocates for a strong and competitive tax and investment environment that attracts and rewards private investment in Canadian entrepreneurial ventures. We provide valuable insights and data to support effective tax policies. Strategically crafted policies can ensure that Canada remains an attractive destination for private capital, which is necessary to drive economic growth, job creation, and innovation. CVCA engages with policymakers to convey perspectives from the private capital industry, and the current economic context. The CVCA advocates for policies that secure access to capital, vital for the growth of private equity and venture capital across economic sectors. CVCA’s efforts ensure Canadian companies can access necessary funding amidst challenges such as tightening credit markets, competition for capital, and economic uncertainties, to drive innovation and economic growth, ultimately fostering a resilient and diversified economy for future generations. Venture Capital Action Plan/Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative is still rolling out, matching private capital allocations to disbursed government dollars. CVCA continues to engage with industry and government to ensure awareness within the VC ecosystem and monitoring the flow of funds, underscoring the importance of Canada's VC Emerging Managers an

PAA Advisory

Intellectual Property Institute of Canada

11

Budget Implementation Act and other relevant legislation and regulations related to intellectual property policies. Patent Act/Trademarks Act/Copyright Act and other relevant aspects of legislation that impact intellectual property policy

Ensure fair and sustainable treatment of patent and trademark agents, regulated by the College of Patent and Trademark Agents, including a potential government consultation on expanded scope of agent-client privilege, and legislative amendments to Patent Act and Trademarks Act. Ensure the CBSA Request for Assistance Program (RFA) is active and running effectively, serving as a tool for IP rights holders to prevent counterfeit goods from entering the Canadian commerce stream.

Recent activity

Jun 16, 2026
Jun 14, 2026
Jun 8, 2026
May 29, 2026
May 22, 2026