SHRC Clarifies Role of Appointed Commissioners

February 26, 2024

It has become clear that there are misconceptions about the work of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, including the role and activities of the appointed Commissioners.

First created in 1972, the Commission’s role is to forward the principle that every person is free and equal in dignity and rights. The Commission has always operated independently from the Government of Saskatchewan.

The Commission staff members are not part of the Public Service Commission, nor does the Commission take instruction from the Ministry. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018, applies to the government, government agencies, crown corporations, and agencies funded by government. Complaints lodged against those entities are regularly taken for investigation, and where required, through a King’s Bench process for hearing and adjudication (a trial).

The Commission is funded by the Government of Saskatchewan and has a legislative requirement to report annually on its business through the Minister of Justice but operates as an independent agency.

With respect to those who are appointed by the Government of Saskatchewan as Commissioners, those individuals are expected to display a dedication to the principles of human dignity and equality, and to be passionate advocates for human rights in Saskatchewan. Only the individual appointed to act as Chief Commissioner holds a full-time, paid position, and is the only Commissioner involved in the disposition of individual and class complaints. 27 staff members of the Commission manage the individual complaint process, class complaint process and the systemic initiative process, pursuant to delegation from the Chief Commissioner.

Other than the Chief Commissioner, the primary role of the Commissioners is to function as a consultative body for the Commission. They have no role in the complaint process and have no influence on any aspect of the disposition of any complaint.

The Commissioners receive a small honorarium per Commission meeting. Those meetings have historically taken place 4 times a year (quarterly during the fiscal year). In addition to the Commission meetings, the Commissioners often attend community events to bring greetings on behalf of the Commission. The Commissioners do not receive an honorarium for attending community engagement events.

Commissioners may provide the public with general information about the principles of human rights. As members of the community, Commissioners will alert the Commission to community concerns or advise where education is required.