Government agencies have the authority to make decisions in certain circumstances. Agencies cannot deal with matters unless the law authorizes them to. Even then, there are rules that govern how agencies must make decisions.
The government gives agencies authority to make decisions. This authority comes through laws that establish the agency and the rules it operates by. Government agencies cannot make decisions on matters unless they have this authority.
The type of decision must be one that the agency has the authority to make. A government agency can only make decisions on things if the law says it can. For example, an agency established to handle work-related injury claims could not decide if a worker can receive social assistance.
The way that an agency makes a decision must also be authorized by law. These laws give agencies discretion to make decisions and rules to follow. If agencies do not use their discretion properly or follow the rules, their decision could be overturned.
There are several ways that an agency could improperly decide something…
The Regina Public Library and Saskatoon Public Library are hosting free Law Fair events during Saskatchewan Access to Justice Week to connect people with free legal information, assistance, and support. Attend to acquire legal knowledge and to broaden awareness of legal rights and responsibilities!