Recently, there have been some delays in setting up the panels, especially those that were going to work on resolving softwood lumber disputes. Setting up the panels always takes a while, because the governments involved have to evaluate the availability of members who are on the roster as well as any disclosures of a conflict of interest. Each government has the right to use up to four vetos on candidates nominated by another country, which also generates its fair share of delays.
Nonetheless, as is the case for any tribunal, the parties involved in the dispute continue to file their legal documents within the prescribed timelines. Once the panels are set up, they simply have to organize sittings, analyze information and make a decision. That part happens rather quickly.
The changes proposed in Bill C-30 will not directly impact the time needed by public servants to nominate candidates for Canada. We find that the delays that have happened over the past few years were regrettable. That said, we hope that there will be a return to a more efficient way of organizing panels as per the terms of CUSMA.