Investigative Process

Complaint Received

  • The intake person receives the complaint
  • Intake person completes the intake form
  • Intake person contacts complainant if info is incomplete
  • File opened, recorded and saved in the L drive, I-sight and physical

Confirmation and Follow-up

  • The intake person informs the Director of Strategic Planning and Policy of the new complaint
  • The Director of Strategic Planning and Policy assign the complaint to the appropriate Investigation Research Officer (IRO or investigator)
  • Within three business days

Preliminary Review

  • Admissibility check
  • IRO identifies the obligated body
  • Checks Inuit Language Protection Act (ILPA) / Official Languages Act (OLA) relevance
  • Determines OLC’s power/scope of coverage
  • Determines admissibility (reviewing OLA / ILPA)
  • Identifies info gaps
  • If private Obligated Bodies have a current and working Inuit Language Plan (ILP), IRO can opt for Non-Investigative Resolution (NIR). Otherwise, IRO will contact the OB to create an ILP and try a NIR.
  • For Territorial Institutions and municipalities, the Languages Commissioner can contact OB to try to resolve the issue through NIR.
  • Discuss with the DSPP to determine whether a NIR or a formal investigation is necessary.
  • DSPP advises LC about the reasons suggesting non-investigative resolution (if applicable).

Deep Review

  • IRO drafts notice of intent to OB informing that a complaint has been filed.
  • Details of the applicant’s allegations and relevant sections of the Acts are identified.
  • 5 business days since complaint reception
  • IRO meets with DSPP to discuss the complaint and recommendations.
  • IRO analyzes which section of ILPA / OLA was violated and recommends solutions.
  • DSPP meets with the Languages Commissioner to discuss the case and make recommendations.
  • IRO drafts a letter to the obligated body identifying language infringement.
  • DSPP reviews – legal advice if required.
  • Commissioner approves.
  • IRO / Intake person sends document for translation.
  • Upon receipt of the translated letter, DSPP sends the document to LC for signature.

Resolution Decision

  • Attempt resolution before formal investigation under ILPA’s section 32 (a) and (b) and/or OLA’s section 22(2)(b)(c).
  • Contact the appropriate level (Staff, DM, Minister) based on the complaint level.
    • If resolved → Case closed
    • If not resolved → Proceed to Deep Review

Follow-Up and Case Closure

  • DSPP sends a letter to OB on behalf of LC.
  • Response expected from OB within 90 days.
  • Applicant is informed of the OB’s actions or commitments by LC or DSPP.
  • Intake Specialist and IRO finalize all file documentation.