Committees

In addition to Council, CNO also has statutory committees as described in the legislation, standing committees and may appoint ad hoc committees. Committees are composed of Council and non-Council members.

Joining a CNO committee is a meaningful way for nurses to contribute to regulatory processes that protect the public. Each year, we invite RPNs, RNs and NPs to apply to participate in any of CNO’s committees. If you are considering getting involved, learning more about committee work can help you determine if it is the right fit for you.

Statutory Committees

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee provides leadership to Council, facilitates the efficient and effective functioning of Council and its committees and makes decisions between Council meetings.

Patient Relations Committee

The Patient Relations Committee advises Council on patient relations programs – particularly in preventing and addressing patient sexual abuse – and administers funding for therapy and counselling for patients involved in sexual abuse complaints or reports.

Discipline Committee

The Discipline Committee holds hearings in cases in which an RN, RPN or NP has been referred by the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee because of the serious nature of the alleged professional misconduct and/or incompetence.

Fitness to Practise Committee

The Fitness to Practise Committee determines whether a nurse is suffering from a physical or mental condition or disorder that is affecting, or could affect, her or his practice, and if so, what action may be necessary to protect the public.

Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee

The Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) screens matters related to public complaints or information the College receives through reports.

Quality Assurance Committee

The Quality Assurance Committee is responsible for ensuring that members comply with all aspects of the Quality Assurance Program, including the two types of assessment: knowledge assessment and practice assessment.

Registration Committee

The Registration Committee assesses an applicant's qualifications to practise nursing in Ontario.

Standing Committees

Conduct Committee

The Conduct Committee manages the investigation of a matter if a written complaint is received about a breach(es) to By-Law No. 3: Council and Committee Code of Conduct.

Finance & Risk Committee

The Finance & Risk Committee advises Council on the financial affairs of CNO and assists Council in fulfilling its fiduciary and governance responsibilities with respect to financial reporting, internal control systems, audit and compliance conduct, and enterprise risk management.

Governance Committee

The Governance Committee advises Council on matters related to governance practices, policies, and processes, ensuring effective Council operations and alignment with regulatory trends. It supports Council in meeting its governance accountabilities by overseeing evaluations, orientation, and committee appointments.

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee assists Council with ensuring CNO’s committee members have the competencies and attributes (meaning the experience, knowledge, skills, and character) needed to fulfil their roles and our purpose to protect the public by promoting safe nursing practice.