Our history

Canadian Human Rights Act comes into effect

The Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA) became legislation in 1977. Under the 1977 legislation, ad hoc tribunals that the Canadian Human Rights Commission (the “Commission”) appointed carried out the hearing of complaints.

Creation of the Human Rights Tribunal Panel

In 1985, the Human Rights Tribunal Panel was created, headed by a President. It was seen as more independent from the Commission. The President appointed the tribunals, and the Commission no longer substantiated complaints. To address continuing concerns about impartiality, the corporate and registry operations of the Human Rights Tribunal Panel became progressively more independent from the Commission, and the Human Rights Tribunal Panel was ultimately designated as a separate government institution. 

Creation of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal

1998 amendments to the CHRA established the fully independent Canadian Human Rights Tribunal in its current form.

Introduction of the Administrative Tribunals Support Service of Canada

In November 2014, the Government of Canada consolidated the provision of support services to eleven administrative tribunals—including the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal—into a single organization, the Administrative Tribunals Support Service of Canada (ATSSC). All staff formerly employed by the Tribunal became employees of the ATSSC. The adjudicative role and authority of the Tribunal remain unchanged.

New mandate under the Pay Equity Act

In 2018, Parliament granted a new mandate to the Tribunal under the Pay Equity Act (PEA). The administration and enforcement of the PEA are the responsibility of the Pay Equity Commissioner. The Commissioner’s decisions are appealable to the Tribunal. Furthermore, the Commissioner may refer any important question of law or question of jurisdiction to the Tribunal.

Role under the Accessible Canada Act

On July 11, 2019, the Accessible Canada Act came into force, creating new duties and functions for the Tribunal.