I think there are a few possibilities. My recommendation to the committee is one of them. There are also other suggestions, such as giving the commissioner the power to recommend that there be a reprimand and a debate in a committee or in the House of Commons. I don't think any minister wishes to see a debate in the House of Commons on his activities, nor does any minister wish to entertain questions on a reprimand from the commissioner.
In short, there are other possibilities that are in my opinion more effective than a $500 fine.