| 1. Ensure that members assign an exhibit number (e.g. A 1, A 2, etc.) to all documents they accept as evidence, and to mark the exhibit number on the documents. | Yes | The IAD will remind members during a professional development session and/or by way of a memo to complete exhibit lists and mark the documents with the corresponding label. The IAD is also in the process of migrating from a paper case file to an electronic case file and will ensure the new procedure for labelling exhibits electronically is nationally consistent. | IAD | Q3 2020–21 |
| 2. Ensure that all documents accepted in evidence (appeal record, Minister’s evidence, appellant’s evidence) are filed together. | Yes | The IAD is in the process of migrating from a paper case file to an electronic case file and will ensure the format for organizing the file is respected both before a hearing and after a decision is rendered. | Registry | Q3 2020–21 |
| 3. Ensure that all documents belonging to a file are attached to the file. | Yes | The IAD will work with Registry to ensure the process of receiving documents at various stages, including at a hearing, are effective and any gaps identified are addressed. It will also review the verification process at the time of finalization to ensure the file is complete before archiving. | Registry | Q3 2020–21 |
| 4. Ensure that members intervene quickly when a witness and the interpreter are speaking at the same time, or when a witness is forgetting to pause during their testimony, to ensure that the entirety of their testimony can be translated accurately. | Yes | The IAD will remind all members during a professional development session to intervene in such circumstances. | IAD | Q3 2020–21 |
| 5. Ensure that the issue(s) in a case are clearly stated to the parties at the start of the hearing so that appellants are informed of the issues in a consistent manner. | Yes | The IAD will remind all members during a professional development session to clearly identify the issues of the appeal at the beginning of the hearing. | IAD | Q3 2020–21 |
6. Provide refresher training on the following
- write in short paragraphs, each covering a single topic, and
- make greater use of sub-titles.
| Yes | The IAD accepts this recommendation and has recently provided training on point-first and plain language reasons writing. A follow-up session will be organized after members have had an opportunity to put the training into practice. | IAD | Q3 2020–21 |