The AIL Group Statement of Commitment on our Supplier Code of Conduct
- Purpose
This policy is established to ensure compliance with Canada’s Bill S-211, which focuses on the elimination of forced and child labour from supply chains. The AIL Group of Companies is committed to upholding human rights, promoting ethical practices and ensuring the integrity of its supply chain operations.
- Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:
- Forced Labour: All work or service which is exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the person has not offered themselves voluntarily, as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
- Child Labour: The employment of persons below the minimum age for work as defined by applicable local laws or by international standards (typically under the age of 15, or 14 in certain developing countries), which is mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful to children or interferes with their schooling.
- Modern Slavery: A broad term encompassing forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage and other forms of exploitation in which people cannot leave or refuse work due to threats, violence, coercion, deception or abuse of power.
- Supplier: Any third party that provides goods, services, raw materials or components to The AIL Group of Companies, including subcontractors and affiliates.
- Supply Chain: The entire sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of goods and services, from raw material sourcing to final delivery, including direct and indirect suppliers.
- Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers and stakeholders involved in the operations and supply chains of The AIL Group of Companies.
- Compliance with Bill S-211
The AIL Group of Companies recognizes the significance of Bill S-211 and is dedicated to fully complying with its provisions. Regular reviews of the legislation will be conducted to ensure continued adherence to any amendments or updates.
- Forced and Child Labour Prohibition
The AIL Group of Companies strictly prohibits the use of forced labour, child labour or any form of modern slavery within its operations and supply chains. Suppliers, contractors and business partners are required to adhere to the same standards as a condition of engagement.
- Due Diligence
The AIL Group of Companies will apply rigorous due diligence to identify and assess the risks of forced labour and child labour within its supply chains. This includes supplier self-assessments, on-site inspections, third-party audits and regular performance evaluations to ensure ongoing compliance.
- Supplier Expectations
The AIL Group of Companies will establish and communicate a Supplier Code of Conduct that clearly outlines expectations regarding the prohibition of forced and child labour. All suppliers must acknowledge and comply with this code as a mandatory condition of their business relationship with The AIL Group of Companies.
- Training and Awareness
All employees involved in procurement, supply chain management or vendor relationships will receive training on the provisions of Bill S-211, the company’s policies and the importance of eliminating forced and child labour. Ongoing awareness initiatives will reinforce this understanding and promote responsible practices.
- Reporting Mechanism
In accordance with Bill S-211, an annual report will be reviewed and approved by The AIL Group of Companies’ Advisory Committee in the second quarter of each year (April–June). This report will be submitted to the Government of Canada and posted publicly on the company’s website for transparency and accountability.
- Non-Retaliation
The AIL Group of Companies strictly prohibits retaliation against any employee, supplier or business partner who reports concerns or participates in investigations related to forced or child labour. All reports will be handled confidentially and investigated thoroughly.
- Continuous Improvement
The AIL Group of Companies is committed to continuous improvement in identifying, mitigating and eliminating risks related to forced and child labour. Regular assessments will be conducted to evaluate performance and identify opportunities for innovation and enhancement.
- Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed at least annually or more frequently if required to ensure continued relevance, effectiveness and compliance with Bill S-211. Any necessary updates or revisions will be promptly implemented.
- Contact Information
For questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact the Chief Executive Officer of The AIL Group of Companies.
This policy reflects The AIL Group of Companies’ commitment to the ethical treatment of workers and the elimination of forced and child labour from its supply chains, in full alignment with Canada’s Bill S-211.
