SOCAN Strengthens Conflict Resolution Procedures Appointing Mireille Tabib as Ombudsperson

Enhances commitment to fairness, transparency, and  accountability with its members  

Toronto, February 15, 2024 – SOCAN today announced the introduction of an ombudsperson role within its organization. This step is aimed at enhancing conflict resolution procedures for its music creator and publisher members. Mireille Tabib, a skilled mediator who served as an Associate Judge of the Federal Court for two decades, has been appointed to this important role.  

Tabib will act as an independent third party, stepping in to handle certain SOCAN member disputes and complaints, in English and French, that cannot be directly resolved by the organization.  

“This is a significant initiative for ensuring that we continue to foster transparency and accountability with our members, while ensuring that all parties involved in disputes are treated fairly and with impartiality. The role of the ombudsperson safeguards our responsibility to meet the best practices of the music industry and music rights organizations, and we’re thankful that Ms. Tabib has agreed to take on this important position,” said SOCAN CEO Jennifer Brown.  

Tabib served as Associate Judge of the Federal Court from March 2003 to July 2023. She was called to the Québec Bar in 1988 and practised law at Stikeman Elliott in Montreal (1989-2003). As an Associate Judge and qualified mediator, she has conducted hundreds of mediations in commercial litigation, with a focus on intellectual property disputes and maritime law.  

“I’m delighted to be able to work with SOCAN on ensuring fairness, and providing essential support, so its members can continue to grow and thrive. The opportunity to meaningfully contribute to the organization’s commitment to transparency is both an honour and an exciting prospect,” said Tabib.   

The specifics regarding the ombudsperson’s role will be set forth in SOCAN’s enhanced conflict resolution procedure, which will be launched in the upcoming weeks, at which time it will notify its members directly.