2 total
Influence-peddling conviction upheld on a broad reading of government-related business.
The Court considered whether accepting a benefit to use government contacts to promote private sales to First Nations constituted influence peddling connected to government business under s. 121(1)(d)(i) of the Criminal Code.
A majority held the phrase should be interpreted broadly and includes matters that could be facilitated by government given its mandate.
The appeal was dismissed, with a dissent that would have restored the acquittal.
Extension of time granted to file election returns as delay was not deliberate or lacking due diligence.
The applicants, who were candidates or official agents in the 42nd Federal General Election, applied for an extension of time to file their election returns under s. 477.68 of the Canada Elections Act.
The returns were filed late due to various reasons including health issues, delays by auditors, and the demands of the campaign.
The court found that the failure to file the returns on time was not deliberate, nor was it the result of a failure to exercise due diligence.
The court granted the requested extensions of time for all applicants.
