As the potential split of the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) looms, CPA Canada is making a strong pitch to its members in Ontario and Quebec to maintain their membership.
The CPA designation was created in 2013 through the merger of three accounting bodies: the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Certified Management Accountants of Canada, and the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada. However, a recent proposal by the Quebec CPA Order to separate from the national organization has sparked concerns about the future of the CPA designation.
In response, CPA Canada has launched a campaign to encourage its members in Ontario and Quebec to remain united under the national organization. The campaign highlights the benefits of being part of a national organization, such as access to a larger network of professionals, a stronger voice in advocacy efforts, and a more consistent standard of practice across the country.
According to Joy Thomas, president and CEO of CPA Canada, the proposed split would create unnecessary barriers for CPAs in Quebec and Ontario, hindering their ability to work and collaborate with their colleagues in other provinces.
The Quebec CPA Order argues that the separation would allow for more autonomy and better representation of the province’s interests. However, CPA Canada maintains that a unified national organization is crucial for the continued success and growth of the accounting profession in Canada.
The proposal to split the CPA designation will be voted on by members of the Quebec CPA Order in September, with a decision expected in October. In the meantime, CPA Canada is urging its members in Ontario and Quebec to stay united and continue to work towards a strong and unified accounting profession in Canada.
