b'2 TRIBUNAL ACTIVITESMANDATORY CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCESTo ensure a fair, expeditious review process,At the end of the CMC, the presiding member the Tribunal relies on implementing andusually issues an order reflecting the results following best practices. A cornerstone ofof the conference that outlines how the case this strategy is holding a mandatory casewill proceed. Through that order, parties are management conference (CMC) for everyrequired to have a joint hearing plan and a case that involves an oral hearing.list of witnesses. The primary intent of this exercise is to ensure that the case progresses Held between the presiding member, theexpeditiously, but a joint hearing plan also parties, and their representatives, a CMChelps to establish a firm schedule, thereby promotes effective management of the case. ensuring the least costly process possible. It familiarizes the parties with the nature ofThis approach ensures better control over the administrative monetary penalty system,the hearing process and avoids complications the legal framework for the alleged violation,likely to result in prejudice to the parties.and the procedure to be followed during Tribunals hearing. In more complex cases, there is a trend toward multiple CMCs to resolve preliminary This practice encourages thoroughmotions and to keep to the number of preparation of arguments, thus eliminatinghearing days previously determined byclaims that are frivolous or poorly supportedthe presiding member.by the evidence. In practical terms, its establishment over the last three years hasHolding a CMC is essential to achieve a fair,contributed to the increase in the number expeditious process at the lowest possible of notices of violation withdrawn, waivers cost for the parties. It is a vital tool for and settlement agreements. maintaining the presiding members impartiality and discouraging frivolousclaims or the abuse of process.Results from the mandatory case management conferences2017-2018 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021Mandatory case management conferences 15 13 11 17Orders 11 21 24 13Notices of violation withdrawn 5 10 4 6Requests for review abandoned 16 11 5 010 CANADA AGRICULTURAL REVIEW TRIBUNAL'