The bodies of the CPA Quebec, Ontario are severing ties with the national organization
TORONTO – An apparent rift between the organizations representing chartered accountants in Canada became public when two provincial groups said they would cut ties with their national counterpart.
Press releases with few details suggest that the provincial groups and the national body disagree on how best to represent CPAs across the country.
CPA Canada said in a press release on Tuesday evening that it is disappointed and surprised that CPA Ontario and CPA Quebec have decided to break with the national organization.
While it did not provide details on the nature of the breach, the organization said it has been working with provincial, territorial and Bermudian CPA agencies to find a path forward in the governance and national representation of CPAs since the appeal ten united years ago.
It said it had more recently “entered into discussions with CPA Ontario and CPA Quebec to pursue the issue,” and called on provincial organizations to reconnect and work with a mediator, and to launch a establish a clear timetable.
In separate press releases, the Ontario and Quebec organizations announced their intent to terminate their current formal relationship with CPA Canada.
The two organizations said their decisions will enable them to better fulfill their missions and support their members.
Carol Wilding, president and CEO of CPA Ontario, said in a press release that the organization’s decision follows extensive discussions with the national group as well as its provincial and territorial counterparts. The organization said it remains committed to working closely with its provincial and territorial counterparts on matters important to the profession, “including maintaining a world-class portable CPA designation.”
The Quebec organization had a similar message in its press release, saying it will ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption to members and other stakeholders.
The decision by the two provincial bodies “comes despite recent progress made and our desire to find a successful solution,” CPA Canada said, adding that it shares Ontario and Quebec’s goals to improve governance, transparency and accountability, and has shown openness on many of the proposals submitted.
CPA Canada said it believes any resolution should involve all provincial, territorial and Bermudian CPA bodies and not just focus on the wishes of one or two provinces.
The hiatus triggers an 18-month withdrawal period under the groups’ current agreement, CPA Canada said.
This report from The Canadian Press was first published on June 20, 2023.
