Stéphanie Dion

The plaintiffs moved to amend the Certification Order to permit a claim for punitive damages in a class action concerning PFAS contamination allegedly caused by the National Research Council of Canada.

The court reviewed new evidence suggesting the NRC knew or ought to have known about the contamination earlier than previously established.

The court held that the plaintiffs must first bring a motion to amend their pleadings before the Certification Order could be amended, adjourning the motion to add punitive damages as a common issue until that time.

The Attorney General of Canada brought a motion to partially stay an action initiated by two former civilian RCMP members, Francisco Chaves and Dayna Young.

The plaintiffs alleged abuse of authority, bullying, and harassment during their employment, particularly under Cameron Ortis, and unfair treatment after his arrest.

The Crown sought a stay, arguing that Mr. Chaves might be covered by a Quebec class proceeding.

The court dismissed the motion, finding no significant judicial economy, uncertainty regarding Mr. Chaves's inclusion in the Quebec class, and no real prejudice to the Crown if the action continued.

The court also noted that some aspects of the Ontario case might not be covered by the Quebec class action.