Happy New Year, MCMA Members,
I hope each of you had a restful and enjoyable holiday season, and that the start of 2026 brings renewed energy and optimism. As we begin a new year, we want to share several important updates and outline the areas the MCMA will continue to champion on your behalf.
Late last year, Dianne and I met with the Court Services Division ADAG, Katie Wood, and the Courts Digital Transformation Division ADAG, Peter O’Keefe, to discuss the status of the POA case management system. As some of you know, the project is currently paused. The Ministry of the Attorney General has advised that it will be undertaking a stabilization exercise, delivered through a third‑party external organization. While we are still waiting to understand the full scope of this work, Katie Wood explained that the purpose of the stabilization exercise is to get a clear picture of the current environment across MCMA and MAG, and to approach longstanding challenges differently. The Ministry has emphasized its intention to:
- Assess how it can better support the system going forward
- Apply lessons learned from the launch of the new case management in the criminal courts (to date, only implemented in Toronto)
- Deepen its understanding of IT solutions, system functionality, and what works
- Build a shared understanding of needs and the role that technology must play in the POA case management system
Both Katie and Peter noted they are learning a great deal through this process and see significant opportunity to engage MCMA more intentionally, to examine what is working, understand where refinements are needed, and ensure the system is built responsibly rather than rushed. Please know that Dianne and I clearly expressed our frustration with the entire exercise and the estimated eight‑month timeline. Other Ministry initiatives, including ERM reforms and collections, will continue during this period. We expect to meet with both ADAGs again in early January to gain clarity on the scope, and at that time we will determine the best path forward for our members.
Early Resolution Reforms
The Ministry has reaffirmed that Early Resolution reforms remain one of their top priorities, with an anticipated release this spring. They will not be seeking additional input and will rely on feedback collected through the previous survey and the POA forums. We will monitor this closely and keep you informed.
Collections Initiatives
Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the four collections‑related surveys. Your participation directly supports the Ministry’s commitment on its five priority areas for strengthening collections. The MCMA’s Collections Committee, led by Amy Rocha and Frank DelMedico, will continue to play an essential role as next steps are defined. Their leadership and ongoing engagement with the Ministry are greatly appreciated.
MCMA Annual Conference- SAVE THE DATE!
We are also looking forward to the 2026 Annual Conference, hosted by the Central West Region from May 5 to 7, (Welcome Reception on May 4 evening). Mississauga will serve as this year’s host and has selected the Delta Hotels Marriott Mississauga as the conference venue. We are pleased to share that Chief Justice Nicklas and Associate Chief Justice Leroy will be our opening speakers on May 5, setting the tone for what promises to be an engaging and informative event. Stay tuned for more information.
MCMA’s Focus for 2026
This year, the MCMA will continue to prioritize:
- Early Resolution reforms
- Modernizing and strengthening collections measures
- The POA case management system
- Holding the Ministry accountable to its commitments
We also continue to hear growing concern from members about the increasing difficulty of maintaining financial sustainability, with rising costs, declining revenues, unchanged set fines, and the urgent need for improved collection tools. We hear you, and these issues will remain central to our advocacy in 2026.
Please stay connected to your regional board representatives, ask questions, and share your insights. We will continue to post all meeting minutes to the website to ensure transparency and timely communication.
Thank you for your continued trust and support of the Board. Let’s work together for a strong start to 2026 and a productive year ahead.
Barb Ryner, President, Central East
Dianne Kasias, Vice President, Toronto
Elizabeth Gillingwater, Treasurer, East
Shelley Parker, Secretary, West
Shannon Hutchison, Board of Director, Northwest
André Couture, Board of Director, Northeast
Francesca Angeloni, Board of Director, Central West