Earlier this spring, the federal government declared September 30 a new statutory holiday. In light of Canada’s tragic history, surrounding the injustice and discrimination Indigenous communities have faced, the day will be known as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
What this means for REALTORS®
As is the case with all statutory holidays, Payments Canada has declared September 30 a payments system closure day, and thus we advise REALTORS® to include clients in considering whether or not to schedule closings on this day, to avoid any delays or complications that may arise as a result. If clients do choose to close on, or directly before the holiday, ensure they know the implications it may have on the timing of their mortgage registration, the distribution of funds between buyers and sellers, and any coordination with other related offices such as lawyers or land registry. When in doubt, contact the office in question directly to find out what, if any, additional considerations should be made to accommodate scheduling around payment system closure days. Keep this in mind when scheduling your upcoming closings to avoid any unnecessary stress for yourself or your clients.
Please also note, the CREA office will be closed September 30 in observance of this national holiday. The Member Experience Centre will not be available. CREA WEBForms® support will be available between 8 a.m. and midnight (EDT). You can reach our CREA WEBForms® support team by email at support@crea.ca or by phone at 1-888-237-7945.
About the date
September 30 was chosen to continue the tradition of what is currently known as Orange Shirt Day, and build upon that existing foundation with a new, more formal acknowledgement.
What this means for all Canadians
As one of the 94 recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, this national holiday is expected to include educational efforts similar to Remembrance Day, so the closure of federally regulated and private businesses in Canada will allow all individuals time to take part in learning and reflection. The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations said of the holiday: “A National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will ensure that our shared history will not be forgotten. Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis requires all Canadians to listen, learn and act.”
