Changes to the CSF policy on compulsory professional development activities

Montréal, April 18, 2023 – Professional development is at the heart of the CSF’s mission and working in collaboration with our partners, including continuing education providers and compliance officers, is a priority. As a result, the CSF has modified its policy on compulsory professional development activities to allow for an alternative attendance control measure during remote live events. This change is effective immediately, we invite firms and brokers to download the new policy and review the CSF’s guide for continuing education providers.

“We are updating our policy to allow for an alternative control measure that just as effectively certifies advisor attendance during professional development activities,” declared Daniel Richard, Vice-President, Community Relations. “We also continue to meet with continuing education providers to ensure we fully understand the issues our partners are facing, as it is vital to ensure public protection and the professional development of our members.” 

As of now, in the case of synchronous continuing education activities delivered remotely, such as a live webinar, attendance control can now be accomplished in one of two ways:

• Include a summative evaluation, or
• Take attendance at a random time during the continuing education activity by asking participants to state their name and certificate number issued by the Autorité des marchés financiers. This request for identification must occur at least once for each hour of the continuing education activity.

This new option for attendance control is in line with industry methods. The change to the policy on compulsory professional development activities was adopted by the Board at its last meeting and has been approved by the Autorité des marches financiers.

Continuing education ensures that CSF members maintain and develop their professional skills, which directly contributes to the protection of the public. The CSF enforces the Regulation of the Chambre de la sécurité financière respecting compulsory professional development and recognises training activities according to the criteria established by the Regulation and its Policy on compulsory professional development activities. Regulations, policies, and all other information needed for the recognition of continuing education activities are posted on the CSF’s website.