The RLA expresses concern over instances where the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) has denied requests for postponement of a hearing based on counsel’s ill-health or injury. The RLA is deeply concerned that in such cases, the Tribunal has not accommodated the counsel’s health or injury-related postponement requests. Many lawyers from our bar work as sole-practitioners or in small firms. As such, in most cases it is not reasonably possible for a lawyer to transfer the file to other counsel if they fall ill, are injured, or have a medical emergency.
