VirtueConseil

Specialist in the fight against forced and child labor in corporate supply chains. We can help you fill in the questionnaire and prepare your annual report.

Bill S211 has become reality.

While its scope may seem limited to a short report of convenience, every company can advance the cause.

Parliament has passed Bill S-211, an Act to combat forced labour and child labour in supply chains and to amend the Customs Tariff, by a large majority. This is an important new legislative tool that requires many Canadian companies, including those operating outside Canada, to produce an annual report on forced and child labor in their supply chains.

Following in the footsteps of the UK and Australia, Canada has also taken steps to combat forced labor, notably in trade agreements such as the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement). We can expect the government to evolve its policies in line with the results obtained.

About the company

Consulting

It’s simple, our firm has the tools and databases to help you with the questionnaire and report.

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A small team dedicated to the cause. We’re a small group of passionate professionals.

The Act applies to companies:

whose shares or equity securities are listed on a Canadian stock exchange or:
which have a place of business in Canada, carry on business in Canada or own assets in Canada, and which, according to their consolidated financial statements, have met at least two of the following conditions for at least one of their last two fiscal years: assets with a value of at least $20 million, revenues of at least $40 million, and an average of at least 250 employees.

Obligation for companies to report annually

As long as a company produces, sells or distributes goods in Canada or abroad, or imports goods into Canada, it will be required to file annual reports – the first due in May 2024 – describing the measures it has taken during its last fiscal year to prevent and mitigate the risk of the use of forced or child labor at any stage of the production of goods it produces in Canada or abroad, or of goods it imports into Canada. The company’s annual report must also include information on its structure, activities and supply chains, its due diligence policies and processes relating to forced labor and child labor, all the measures it has taken to remedy any use of forced labor or child labor, its methods (including staff training, risk assessment, auditing). The annual report must be approved by the Board of Directors and made public, including by posting on the company’s website, and must also be distributed to shareholders. It is important for companies to understand that they have a strong interest in going beyond the requirements of the Act, in demonstrating proactive due diligence, and in taking action to eliminate forced and child labor from their supply chains. We believe that the law will evolve in this direction, as it already has in some European countries.

Do you have questions ?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Bill S211 and what does it require from businesses?

Bill S211 is a Canadian legislative act aimed at combating forced labor and child labor within businesses operating in Canada and their global supply chains. It requires companies to conduct annual audits and public reporting on the measures taken to prevent and reduce the risk of forced and child labor. Virtue Conseil specializes in helping businesses understand these requirements and implement the necessary compliance strategies effectively.

What services does Virtue Conseil offer?

Virtue Conseil specializes in compliance consulting with a focus on Bill S211, helping Canadian businesses navigate and adhere to strict regulations against modern slavery and forced labor. Our services include strategic compliance planning, risk assessments, and facilitation of partnerships with NGOs.

Why choose Virtue Conseil for compliance consulting?

Virtue Conseil stands out for our deep expertise in Canadian regulatory requirements, particularly Bill S211. By leveraging advanced tools and databases alongside expert advice, we ensure a balanced strategy that covers all bases—from legal compliance to ethical labor practices. Our dedicated team ensures that your business not only meets legal standards but also promotes ethical labor practices.

Can Virtue Conseil help if my business is new to Bill S211 requirements?

Absolutely! Virtue Conseil is equipped to guide new businesses through the initial phases of understanding and implementing Bill S211 requirements. We offer comprehensive workshops, training sessions, and onboarding processes to ensure your team is well-prepared and informed.

What industries does Virtue Conseil primarily serve?

Virtue Conseil provides specialized compliance consulting for industries heavily impacted by Bill S211, including manufacturing, retail, and any businesses with extensive supply chains in Canada. We tailor our strategies to meet the specific needs of each sector, ensuring relevant and effective compliance solutions.

Is there a minimum business size that Virtue Conseil works with?

Virtue Conseil primarily assists companies engaged in significant operations within Canada. We specialize in serving businesses that meet certain scale requirements, including those whose shares or equity securities are listed on a Canadian stock exchange, or those with a place of business in Canada.

What regions in Canada does Virtue Conseil support for Bill S211 compliance?

Virtue Conseil supports businesses across all regions of Canada, including major economic centers such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary, for Bill S211 compliance. We extend our services nationwide and globally, ensuring that companies everywhere can achieve compliance with this important Canadian legislation.