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Council Meeting Dates

Highlights from the College Council meetings are published on the College website and in the Perspective newsletter.

All council meetings are held at:
OCSWSSW
250 Bloor Street. East, Suite 1000.

Seating at Council meetings is limited. To reserve a place, please fax your request to the College at 416-972-1512 or e-mail Trudy Langas.

Click on the links below to access the highlights from past meetings.

2010 Council Meetings

Date:	Monday, September 13, 2010 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday, September 14, 2010 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
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Date:

Thursday, May 6, 2010 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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Date:

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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The College’s legal counsel reviewed the proposed amendments to the Registration Regulation under the Social Work and Social Service Work Act. The Ontario Labour Mobility Act, the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendment Act and the Good Government Act all bring about the need for the College’s Registration Regulation to be amended. Council approved the proposed amendments.

The President informed Council that public members Susan Clark and Norman MacLeod will be attending the Association of Social Work Boards’ Spring Meeting in May 2010.

The Registrar and Council member Rachel Birnbaum, RSW updated Council on the development of the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators.

Council member Jack Donegani, RSSW updated Council on the meeting held between College representatives and Shelley Styles, President of the Ontario Social Service Worker Graduate Association. The meeting was productive and enabled open communication between both groups.

The Deputy Registrar provided an update on the 2010 Annual Meeting and Education Day taking place on June 14, 2010 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. All speakers have been confirmed and planning continues.

Council discussed the issue of campaigning for positions on the Executive Committee and agreed that campaigning is permitted.

Council reviewed and approved a Code of Conduct for Council members.

Council reviewed the financial statements from December 2009.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, the audit and registration reports required by the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, and stakeholder relations.

The Deputy Registrar reported on renewal statistics, professional practice, the newly-designed website, the next issue of Perspective and the 2009 Annual Report.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Election, Finance and Governance. Reports were also received from the Registration Policy Task Group, the Terms & Limits Task Group and the Annual Meeting and Education Day Task Group.

Date:

Friday, January 22, 2010 – 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

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The Registrar updated Council on the process and content of the pending amendments to the Registration Regulation under the Social Work and Social Service Work Act. The Ontario Labour Mobility Act, the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendment Act and the Good Government Act all bring about the need for the College’s Registration Regulation to be amended. College representatives have met with representatives from the Ministry of Community and Social Services and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities regarding the amendments.

The Registrar informed Council that the Ontario Labour Mobility Act, the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendment Act and the Good Government Act all received Royal Assent on December 15, 2009. All three Acts contain amendments to the Social Work and Social Service Work Act. The Ontario Labour Mobility Act & The Good Government Act came into force on Royal Assent. The amendments to the SWSSWA contained in the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendment Act will be in force upon proclamation.

The President updated Council on the board member training offered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). It is hoped that those Council members wishing to attend the training will have the opportunity to do so in 2010.

Council member Jack Donegani, RSSW presented a letter he wrote to Shelley Styles, President of the Ontario Social Service Worker Graduate Association offering the opportunity to meet with College representatives in order to foster open communication between the two groups.

The Registrar informed Council that 2010 marks the 10th anniversary of the College’s inception. Several milestones will be celebrated throughout the year with College staff, Council and members.

Council approved By-law 71 which amends Schedule 1 of By-law 21.

Council appointed the accounting firm of Soberman LLP as the College’s auditors.

Council appointed Henk Van Dooren, RSW to the Election Committee due to the resignation of Beatrice Traub-Werner, RSW from the Committee.

Council member Rachel Birnbaum, RSW provided an update on the development of the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Election, Finance and Governance. Reports were also received from the Registration Policy Task Group, the Terms & Limits Task Group and the Annual Meeting and Education Day Task Group.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, infrastructure, the audit required by the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, and stakeholder relations.

The Deputy Registrar reported on renewal statistics, professional practice, the website re-design project, the upcoming public awareness campaign and the 2009 Annual Report.

2009 Council Meetings

Date:

Friday, November 27, 2009 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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The Registrar updated Council on the status of Bill 179, the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendment Act, 2009. College representatives made an oral and written presentation to the Standing Committee on Social Policy on September 29, 2009. The Bill was referred for third reading in the Legislature on October 20, 2009.

The Registrar informed Council that Bill 212, the Good Government Act is currently in clause-by-clause reading. The amendments the Minister of Community and Social Services approved during the five-year review of the SWSSW Act are included in the Act.

The Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT). The Government has approved the College’s proposed exception to the AIT. The Labour Mobility Act is currently in second reading debate. Once passed, the Act will require the College’s Registration Regulation be amended.

Several Council members updated the group on the Association of Social Work Boards’ Annual Meeting which took place in October. Four Council representatives and several staff members attended the event and found it to be very beneficial.

The Registrar informed Council that Anita Gupta, Public Member, has been re-appointed to Council until 2012.

Council approved the 2010 budget.

Greg Clarke, RSSW, updated Council on the first meeting of the Annual Meeting and Education Day Planning Group. Marking Milestones: Landmarks and Discovery is the theme for the 2010 event and various ideas have been generated for speakers and session topics.

Council approved a proposal from the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators (CCSWR) requesting that the OCSWSSW act as the applicant on behalf of the CCSWR in order to apply for funding from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). Once HRSDC approves the application, work will begin on the development of a National Social Work Competency Profile.

Council reviewed the third quarter financial statements.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, infrastructure, the audit required by the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, and stakeholder relations.

The Deputy Registrar reported on the website re-design project, the upcoming public awareness campaign, renewal statistics, the Continuing Competence Program, and the spring 2010 issue of Perspective.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, and Governance. Reports were also received from the Registration Policy Task Group and the Terms & Limits Task Group.

Next meeting will be January 22, 2010.

Date:

Monday, September 14, 2009 – 9:00 am to 12 pm
Tuesday, September 15, 2009 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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The following Council members were elected by Council to the Executive Committee:
Mukesh Kowlessar, RSSW – President
Rachel Birnbaum, RSW – First Vice-President
Susan Clark, Public Member – Second Vice-President
Jack Donegani, RSSW – 4th Executive Member
John Pretti, RSW – 5th Executive Member
Lisa Barazzutti, Public Member – 6th Executive Member

The Registrar informed Council of Bill 179, the Regulated Health Professions Statute Law Amendments Act, 2009. The bill amends the Social Work and Social Service Work Act to provide for the use of the protected title “Psychotherapist” by members of the College authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy subject to certain conditions. Bill 179 has been referred to the Standing Committee on Social Policy. The College is preparing a written submission to the Committee and has asked to be considered to make an oral presentation to the Committee.

The Registrar informed Council that the Ontario government intends to table a Good Government Bill in the autumn session of the Legislature. The Ministry of Community and Social Services would like to include in this Bill the amendments to the Social Work and Social Service Work Act that were requested by the College and approved by the Minister in the five-year review of the Act. The Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT). The Ministry of Community and Social Services and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities has approved the College’s proposed revisions (“legitimate objective”) to the AIT which have been passed on for further review and approval.

The Deputy Registrar reviewed the evaluations from the 2009 Annual Meeting and Education Day. The event was once again very well received. The date for the 2010 event is June 16th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

The Registrar updated Council on the practice analysis currently being undertaken by the Association of Social Work Boards. The survey of social workers throughout North America has been completed and the report will be released in 2010.

Council appointed Rachel Birnbaum, RSW and Registrar Glenda McDonald as the College’s representatives on the newly formed Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators.

Council approved the strategic plan for 2009-2011.

The Nominating Committee met on September 14, 2009 to make recommendations to Council regarding the composition of Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees. Council approved the recommendations regarding the membership and chairmanship of the Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees of Council. For details, please visit the Committees menu on the College website.

Council approved a revised per diem and expense policy.

The Registrar informed Council that a letter was sent to Mr. Kim Craitor, MPP regarding Bill 159, Transparency in Public Matters Act, 2009 which would allow members of the public to attend committee meetings of public corporations. The College is concerned that this provision would be in direct conflict with the confidentiality provision set out in the Social Work and Social Service Work Act.

Council reviewed and approved By-law No. 69, which amends Election By-law 36, and By-law No. 70, which amends By-law No. 1.

Council reviewed the 2nd quarter financial statements.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, infrastructure, the College’s pandemic plan, stakeholder relations and the upcoming public awareness campaign.

The Deputy Registrar reported on the results of the recent communications survey with members, the status of the online renewal project, the Continuing Competence Program, the website re-design project and stakeholder relations.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election and Nominating.

Next meeting will be November 27, 2009.

Date:

Thursday, May 7, 2009 – 9:30 am to 3:00 pm
Friday, May 8, 2009 – 9:30 am to 12:00 pm

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The Registrar informed Council that the Transitional Registrar of the College of Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists has been appointed.

The Registrar informed Council that two Council representatives attended the new Board member training offered by the Association of Social Work Boards.

The Registrar updated Council on the CASW/CASWE Intersectoral Initiative which aims to improve communication and relations between the CASW, regulators and educators. The group held a teleconference in February 2009 and discussed the CASW’s decision to no longer evaluate international credentials at the end of 2009.

The Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT). The College is working with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and the Ministry of Community and Social Services regarding the proposed revisions to the AIT and the College’s labour mobility obligations.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the 2009 Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 24, 2009 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Registration has begun and we have had a very positive response to date.

Council approved the 2009-2011 strategic plan in principle.

Council approved a recommendation that would exclude a Council member from standing for re-election if their 10-year maximum to serve on Council would occur during their term. The by-law change will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Council approved the following three Practice Guidelines: Medication Practices, Consent and Confidentiality with Children and Youth, and Custody and Access Assessments.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, stakeholder relations and announced that College representatives will be holding forums in various cities in Northern and Eastern Ontario in May and June to update members on the strategic priorities of the College and introduce the Continuing Competence Program.

The Deputy Registrar reported that the Continuing Competence Program is now in effect and educational sessions have begun around the province to introduce the program to members. She also updated Council on the Spring issue of Perspective, the 2008 Annual Report, the communications survey to be sent to members, renewal rates and the College’s online projects.

Council reviewed the financial statements for the 1st quarter of 2009 and the 2008 Auditor’s report.

Reports were received from the statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election and Finance.

Council agreed to the formation of a task group to discuss the appointment of Chairs to College committees and Council members’ terms of office on committees to ensure opportunity and succession planning.

Next meeting will be September 14 and 15, 2009.

Date:

Thursday, February 12, 2009 – 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

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The Registrar informed Council that College representatives met with staff from the Ministry of Community and Social Services in January 2009. They discussed amendments to the Social Work and Social Service Work Act and the Registration Regulation, including the inactive category of membership and the changes required to comply with the Agreement on Internal Trade.

The Registrar updated Council on the developments relating to the implementation of the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act. College staff are currently preparing an annual report to submit to the Office of the Fairness Commissioner by March 1st. The report will detail our registration practices for 2008.

The Registrar informed Council of the new Board member training offered by the Association of Social Work Boards. Several Council representatives will attend the training sponsored by ASWB.

The Registrar updated Council on the CASW/CASWE Intersectoral Initiative which aims to improve communication and relations between the CASW, regulators and educators. The group held a teleconference in January 2009 and discussed a number of issues, including the Agreement on Internal Trade.

The Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT). The College is in communication with the Ministry of Community and Social Services regarding the proposed revisions regarding AIT and the College’s labour mobility obligations. The College has requested that a “legitimate objective” be considered.

The Registrar informed Council that there has been a proposal to create the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators, as there is currently no national social work regulatory body. Eight provinces, including Ontario, have agreed to form the group.

President Rachel Birnbaum informed Council that Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community and Social Services, is being honoured by the Social Work Doctor’s Colloquium on March 5th for exemplifying the values of the social work profession including the fight for social justice.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, the status of the equivalency applications project, and stakeholder relations.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on annual renewal statistics, the College’s online projects, Perspective issue Spring 2009, the 2008 Annual Report and the Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 24, 2009 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Council reviewed the financial statements for the 4th quarter of 2008.

Reports were received from the statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice and Election.

Next meeting will be on May 7 and 8, 2009.

2008 Council Meetings

Date:

Tuesday, December 9, 2008 – 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

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The Registrar informed Council that December 18, 2008 marks the 10th anniversary of the Social Work and Social Service Work Act. An eBulletin will be distributed to members to celebrate this milestone.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the Psychotherapy Act. College staff met recently with representatives from other colleges whose members are authorized to perform psychotherapy to discuss issues of mutual concern such as standards of practice for psychotherapy.

The Registrar updated Council on the implementation of the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act. College staff have attended meetings hosted by the Fairness Commissioner and we are now aware of the requirements that must be met to comply with the Act. An audit of our registration practices must be undertaken in 2009 and completed in 2010.

The Registrar updated Council on the annual meeting of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). Staff and Council representatives attended the meeting in November 2008 and found it to be a worthwhile experience. All ten provinces are now members of the organization. ASWB is currently embarking on a practice analysis of social work throughout North America. Registrar Glenda McDonald is a member of the task group that will carry out the project.

The Registrar reported that a teleconference took place in October with representatives from the CASW/CASWE Intersectoral Initiative. The initiative aims to improve communication and relations between the CASW, regulators and educators.

Council was informed that Lisa Barazzutti, Public Member has been re-appointed to Council for another three-year term.

The Registrar informed Council that the Registration Appeals Committee has recommended that a review be undertaken of the registration policy for the Combination of Academic Qualifications and Practical Experience Substantially Equivalent to a Diploma in Social Service Work.

The Deputy Registrar informed Council that the Scopes of Practice Position Paper, which is available to download from the College website, has received extremely positive feedback to date.

Council reviewed and approved the Continuing Competence Program for members of the College.

Council reviewed and approved the 2009 budget.

The Registrar updated Council on the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT) which allows for labour mobility of social workers across the country. Full implementation of the AIT is required by August 2009. Final amendments to the agreement will be signed off shortly.

The Registrar reviewed membership statistics, the status of the equivalency project, the recruitment of the Director of Professional Practice, and stakeholder relations.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the College’s online projects, renewal statistics for 2009, Perspective issue Spring 2009, and the Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 24, 2009 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Council reviewed the financial statements for the 3rd quarter of 2008.

Reports were received from the statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, and Finance.

Next meeting will be on February 12, 2009.

Date:

Monday, September 15, 2008 – 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Tuesday, September 16, 2008 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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The following Council members were elected by Council to the Executive Committee:
Rachel Birnbaum, RSW – President
Sue-Ellen Merritt, RSSW – First Vice-President
Norman MacLeod, Public Member – Second Vice-President
John Pretti, RSW – 4th Executive Member
Mukesh Kowlessar, RSSW – 5th Executive Member
Susan Clark, Public Member – 6th Executive Member

Council discussed the results of a survey distributed to the membership regarding the practice of psychotherapy. The information gathered will be used to help determine the competencies required for those who will be authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy. The College continues to meet with the other provincial regulators who are also authorized to perform the controlled act.

When changes are made to the Registration Regulation to comply with the Agreement on Internal Trade, the College is hoping to make the changes necessary to implement an inactive category of membership.

Council reviewed the College’s obligations regarding the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, 2006.

Council reviewed the evaluations from the 2008 Annual Meeting and Education Day which were very positive. The 2009 event is scheduled for June 24th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

The draft Revised Investment Policy has been reviewed by the Finance and Executive Committees and will be discussed at the December Council meeting.

In May, the College became the 9th province to join the Association of Social Work Boards. The ASWB annual meeting will take place in Rhode Island in November and several College representatives will attend.

The College was a platinum sponsor for the CASW Conference which took place in May. The impact of this appears to have been very positive.

The Registrar reported that the CASW/ CASWE Intersectoral Initiative has developed terms of reference. CASW has drafted a Scope of Practice document, which the Canadian Social Work Regulators will respond to.

Council reviewed the evaluations from the College forums which took place in 10 cities in Ontario in April and May. The evaluations were extremely positive and further outreach efforts will be considered.

The Nominating Committee met on September 15, 2008 to make recommendations to Council regarding the composition of Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees. Council approved the recommendations regarding the membership and chairmanship of the Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees of Council. For details, please visit the Committees menu on the College website.

Council welcomed new members Lily Oddie, Greg Clarke, Kim Lewis and Beatrice Traub-Werner.

Council reviewed and approved By-Law No. 68 amending Election By-Law 36.

At the request of the Registration Appeals Committee, and approval of Executive Committee, a review will be undertaken of the Registration Policy regarding Combination of Academic Qualifications and Practical Experience Substantially Equivalent to a diploma in Social Service Work.

Council reviewed the College’s submission to the Standing Committee on Social Policy regarding the review of the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004.

Council reviewed and approved the Scopes of Practice Position paper, which was revised based on feedback from members and stakeholders.

An update was provided on the database upgrade and online project, which will improve online services to members and stakeholders.

The Registrar reported on membership statistics, the status of equivalency applications, the appointment of the Deputy Registrar and stakeholder relations.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, Nominating and Finance.

Next meeting will be December 9 and 10, 2008.

Date:

Friday, May 9, 2008 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

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The Registrar updated Council on the implementation of the Psychotherapy Act. The government is currently recruiting for individuals to sit on the Transitional Council of the College of Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists, and Registrar Glenda McDonald will apply for a position on the Council. Also, a survey was sent out to members via eBulletin to gather information from those who practise psychotherapy. The results will give the College a better grasp of the number of members affected by the legislation and will help determine how it will regulate its members who practise psychotherapy.

Council approved a policy to allow the release of information from the Register for research purposes. This will be a consent-based process which will be implemented on the 2009 annual renewal of registration form.

Council approved a by-law change reducing the annual fee for members to $270 and $170 for new graduates effective January 1, 2009.

The Registrar informed Council that the changes to the registration section of the website are almost complete. This is an initiative the College is undertaking in order to comply with the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act.

The Registrar updated Council on the 2008 Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 18th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Registration has begun and the response has been extremely positive with 350 delegates already registered to attend.

The Registrar informed Council that the application to become a member of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) has been submitted and will be considered at the May ASWB Board meeting.

The Registrar informed Council that the College is a platinum sponsor for the Canadian Association of Social Workers’ conference being held in Toronto from May 22-25, 2008. The College will have a display booth at the conference and President Rachel Birnbaum will be introducing the keynote speaker Margaret Trudeau.

The Registrar informed Council that an article regarding Bill 14, the Access to Justice Act, was published in the most recent issue of Perspective and asked members to contact the College if they believe their practice is affected by this legislation. To date, no calls have been received.

The Council approved a motion to support the establishment of a Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators and to participate informally in the Intersectoral Collaboration Committee, an initiative to promote communication, connection and collaboration among the Canadian Association of Social Workers, the Canadian Association for Social Work Education and social work regulatory bodies.

The Registrar reviewed the evaluations from the College Forums that took place around the province during April and early May. The response from the events was overwhelmingly positive and it is hoped that similar events will be planned for future years.

Anita Gupta, Public Member was appointed to the Election Committee to replace Zita Devan, Public Member whose term has expired.

The Registrar reviewed the financial statements and the 2007 audit.

The Registrar reported:
• that we have had a 95% renewal rate for the 2008 year and have registered 734 new members to date;
• that the equivalency project is continuing;
• that the revised Standards of Practice and member resource binder have been distributed to all members;
• that further consultation will take place in the coming months regarding the Continuing Competence Program;
• that we are communicating on a regular basis with staff at the Ministry of Community and Social Services;
• that the Perspective newsletter has been distributed and the Annual Report 2007 will be distributed by the end of May.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice and Election.

Next Council meeting will be on September 15 and 16, 2008.

Date:

Tuesday, February 12, 2008 – 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Wednesday, February 13, 2008 – 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

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Council passed by-law 66, approving the revised Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for members of the College. The revised standards are effective July 1, 2008. The new standards will be distributed to members in April 2008.

Council reviewed and approved new policies in order to implement three of the terms of recognition contained in the Social Work Mutual Recognition Agreement, previously approved by Council.

The Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding Bill 171, the Health System Improvements Act. The College continues to work with Counsel Public Affairs to monitor the legislative environment, particularly surrounding the implementation of the Psychotherapy Act.

The Deputy Registrar informed Council that College representatives have attended several meetings and workshops hosted by the Office of the Fairness Commissioner (OFC). The meetings enabled the OFC to consult with regulatory bodies throughout Ontario regarding their current registration practices and inform regulators about the reporting and auditing provisions under the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act.

The Registrar updated Council on the 2008 Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 18th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The theme of the event is Principles of Professionalism and will accommodate up to 500 members.

The Deputy Registrar informed Council that the application to become a member of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) has been submitted and will be reviewed at the May ASWB Board meeting.

The Registrar informed Council that it has been confirmed that the College will be a platinum sponsor for the Canadian Association of Social Workers’ conference to be held in Toronto in May 2008.

The Registrar provided Council with an update surrounding Bill 14, the Access to Justice Act and the potential impact it may have on our members. The College will also seek information from members in order to determine the impact on members and their clients.

Council approved in principle a motion to reduce member fees by 20% effective January 1, 2009. If the by-law is approved at the May Council meeting, effective January 1, 2009, the annual fee for members will be $270 and $170 for new graduates.

The Registrar reported:
• that the revised Standards of Practice are currently being printed and will be sent to all members along with a member resource binder;
• that further consultation is being done with various stakeholders regarding the Scope of Practice Paper;
• that meetings have been held with the Minister of Community and Social Services and Ministry staff;
• that the College is conducting forums around the province in April in order to introduce the revised Standards of Practice and to enable members and potential members to learn more about the College’s strategic priorities;
• that the Annual Report 2007 and the Perspective newsletter are currently being developed and will be distributed by the end of May 2008.

The Deputy Registrar reported on the current renewal and registration statistics and the progress to date on the equivalency applications project.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, and Finance.

Next Council meeting will be on May 8 and 9, 2008.

2007 Council Meetings

Date:

Tuesday, December 11, 2007 – 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 – 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Show Highlights

The Registrar informed Council that College staff met with representatives from the other regulatory colleges whose members are authorized to perform psychotherapy to discuss Bill 171 and how the Colleges will regulate members who perform the controlled act.

The Registrar also informed Council that meetings have taken place with staff from the Ministry of Community and Social Services and that a meeting is scheduled with Minister Madeleine Meilleur in the near future.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the developments surrounding the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act. Meetings are scheduled with the College and representatives from the Office of the Fairness Commissioner in the coming weeks. The College is also submitting a report to the Fairness Commissioner regarding our membership statistics and information on our internationally educated members.

The Registrar informed Council that legal counsel has completed an analysis on the regulations and policies required in order to comply with the Mutual Recognition Agreement. These policies will be ready for Council approval in February 2008.

The Registrar updated Council on the 2008 Annual Meeting and Education Day which will take place on June 18th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The event will focus on professionalism and will accommodate up to 500 members.

Council reviewed and approved the draft 2008 budget and directed that the Finance Committee consider options for a further fee reduction for members in 2009.

Donna DeAngelis, Executive Director of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), presented to Council on the benefits of membership in ASWB. She also provided information on the role of ASWB in the development and maintenance of social work licensing examinations used in the United States and in some Canadian jurisdictions. ASWB is the association of boards that regulate the profession of social work in the majority of states in the US as well as eight of the provincial social work regulatory organizations in Canada. After careful consideration of Ms. DeAngelis’ presentation and feedback from other Canadian provinces respecting membership in ASWB, Council approved a motion to apply for membership in ASWB.

Council reviewed and approved in principle the revised Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for College members.

The Registrar informed Council that a meeting took place between the College and the Law Society of Upper Canada regarding the amended Law Society Act, in order to clarify the Law Society’s position regarding the representation of clients before tribunals. The College will be communicating with members in the New Year to determine how many of our members carry out these duties in the course of their practice.

Council directed that the College become a platinum sponsor for the Canadian Association of Social Work conference taking place in Toronto on May 22-25, 2008.

The Deputy Registrar reported on membership and renewal statistics.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, and Finance.

Next Council meeting will be on February 12 and 13, 2008.

Date:

Monday, September 17, 2007 - 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Tuesday, September 18, 2007 - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Show Highlights

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the work that has been done to date regarding the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act. The registration department has been working on updates to the website, wording for brochures and fact sheets as well as database updates that are necessary to comply with the legislation. The College is also working with the Canadian Association of Social Workers to ensure compliance with the Act, with respect to the evaluation of international social work credentials.

The Registrar provided Council with the evaluations from the 2007 Annual Meeting and Education Day which took place on June 22, 2007. The overall response to the event was very positive although it is apparent that a larger venue is needed for next year in order to accommodate more members. Plans are already underway for the 2008 event.

The Registrar informed Council that the Social Work Mutual Recognition Agreement has now been signed by all provinces except Newfoundland. The College will now need to identify any changes that need to be made to its registration practices.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Fitness to Practise, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, Nominating and Finance.

Council reviewed a revised investment policy.

The following Council members were elected by Council to the Executive Committee:
Rachel Birnbaum, RSW – President
Sue-Ellen Merritt, RSSW – First Vice-President
Norman MacLeod, Public Member – Second Vice-President
Joe Fecht, RSW – 4th Executive Member
Mukesh Kowlessar, RSSW – 5th Executive Member
Susan Clark, Public Member – 6th Executive Member

The Nominating Committee met on September 17, 2007 to make recommendations to Council regarding the composition of the Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees. Council approved the recommendations regarding the membership and chairmanship of the Statutory and Non-Statutory Committees of Council. For details, please visit the Committees menu on the College's website.

Council reviewed and approved a revised per diem and expense policy.

Representatives from Counsel Public Affairs, the College’s government relations firm, presented to Council regarding the implications of Bill 171 and made recommendations regarding a strategic approach to accomplish the College’s objectives with respect to the implementation of the Health System Improvements Act.

Council directed that a process and procedure be developed to allow the release of information from the register of the College for research purposes. This will be a consent-based process which will be implemented on the 2009 annual renewal of registration form.

The Registrar welcomed Nancy Martin, the College’s new Professional Practice Associate, to the staff; informed Council that recruitment is underway for a Case Manager position in the Complaints and Discipline department; advised that the next issue of Perspective will be mailed to members in October, the website is updated regularly and the eBulletin has been used on a number of occasions in the past few months.

The Deputy Registrar updated Council on the College’s membership statistics and the progress made regarding the equivalency applications.

Next Council meeting will be on December 11 and 12, 2007.

Date:

Wednesday, May 9, 2007 – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

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The Registrar updated Council on the College's efforts regarding Bill 171, the Health System Improvements Act, since the last Council meeting. It is anticipated that the government will introduce an amendment to the Bill authorizing social workers to perform the Controlled Act of psychotherapy.

The Deputy Registrar informed Council that College staff met with representatives from the Canadian Association of Social Workers to discuss Bill 124, the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act and how the College will comply with the new legislation. The College's website will also be updated to provide more information regarding registration in the College for internationally educated applicants.

The Registrar informed Council that the Social Work Mutual Recognition Agreement is currently making its way across the country for final signatures by all parties.

Council was updated on the status of registrations for the 2007 Annual Meeting and Education Day taking place on June 22 at the Old Mill Inn. Since the brochure was mailed to members last week, we already have 176 registrants and one breakout session is sold out.

Council approved By-law 65 which allows those applicants who obtain a certificate in Canadian Social Work Practice from Ryerson University to qualify for the new graduate registration fee of $240 provided the person meets the requirements for registration.

The Registrar reported that the College's annual audit is complete; the 2007 election in districts 1, 2 and 5 will take place on May 24th; the standards of practice consultation is well underway; the Perspective newsletter was mailed last week; and eBulletins are being sent regularly in between issues of the newsletter.

The Deputy Registrar reported on current membership statistics and renewal rates; updated Council on the status of the equivalency applications project; and informed Council that research is currently being conducted into the additional training component for those holding Provisional certificates of registration.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Fitness to Practise, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, Nominating, Governance and Finance.

Next meeting will be on Monday September 17 and Tuesday September 18, 2007.

Date:

Tuesday, February 20, 2007 – 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Wednesday, February 21, 2007 – 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

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The Registrar informed Council that a meeting will be scheduled with the Ministry of Community and Social Services to discuss the recommendations made in the Minister's report on the five year review of the Social Work and Social Service Work Act.

The Registrar updated Council on the status of Bill 14, the Access to Justice Act, which received Royal Assent on October 19, 2006. The Bill is an Omnibus Bill, which among other things, will regulate the paralegal profession under the Law Society of Upper Canada and in so doing defines the term "legal services" very broadly. Included in the definition could be several services which social workers and social service workers currently provide. Prior to third reading and Royal Assent, an amendment was made to the Bill which provides for regulated professionals, including members of OCSWSSW, who are acting in the normal course of carrying out their profession, not to be deemed to be providing legal services for the purposes of the Act when engaged in the activities that the Act defines as the provision of legal services. The Act is expected to come into force on May 1, 2007.

The Registrar informed Council that a work plan is currently being developed to determine how the College will meet the requirements of Bill 124, the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act once it comes into effect.

Council approved the Social Work Mutual Recognition Agreement, which establishes the conditions under which a social worker who is registered or licensed in one Canadian jurisdiction will have his/her qualifications recognized in another jurisdiction.

The Registrar informed Council that the scope of practice position paper will be reviewed by external stakeholders before being brought to Council for final approval.

The Registrar reminded Council that the 2007 Annual Meeting and Education Day will take place on June 22, 2007 at the Old Mill Inn in Toronto. The theme for the event is The Essential Balance: Professional Excellence, Personal Self-Care.

Representatives from Counsel Public Affairs, the College's government relations firm, presented a proposed strategy to press for amendments to Bill 171, the Health System Improvements Act, to ensure that College members continue to be able to provide psychotherapy services in Ontario. Currently, the Bill proposes to create a new controlled act of psychotherapy in the Regulated Health Professions Act. Further, the Bill only authorizes the regulated health professions of physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, psychologists and members of the new College of Psychotherapists of Ontario to perform the controlled act. It does not therefore authorize members of OCSWSSW to perform the new controlled act related to psychotherapy nor use the title “psychotherapist”.

Council approved By-law 64 amending By-law 36.

The Registrar reviewed the membership statistics of the College; updated Council that phase two of the standards of practice consultation is now underway; informed the group that meetings have been held with several key stakeholders, including social service work educators and human resource directors of Children's Aid Societies; informed Council that the next issue of Perspective will be published in late April, the Annual Report will be mailed in late May and that the website continues to be updated on a regular basis.

Reports were received from the following statutory and non-statutory committees: Complaints, Discipline, Fitness to Practise, Registration Appeals, Standards of Practice, Election, Nominating, Governance and Finance.