When the bureau is required to conduct an investigation, it examines the relevant facts and evidence to determine whether an offence has actually been committed and whether there is an abuse of dominance.
To do this, a group of investigators interview witnesses, whether they are competitors, suppliers or industry experts. They analyze the evidence and review documents related to the complaint. The bureau conducts very thorough reviews to ensure that decisions are based on facts and evidence.
After investigation, the bureau often enters into discussions and negotiations with the company or companies involved to see if the dispute can be resolved without the need to refer the case to court.
The bureau may register a consent agreement with the court. If there is no mutually agreeable solution, the dispute is the subject of an application to the Competition Tribunal, in which case it is a legal proceeding. A party may be able to appeal a decision of the tribunal.