Canadian professionals over-regulated, says competition report

From the Canadian Press:
A new study is recommending Canada's lawyers, real estate agents and other self-regulated professions re-examine their rules to ensure they serve the public good and encourage competition.

The study by the Competition Bureau found rules that limit advertising, set prices and restrict who can offer professional services may go too far.

The bureau says such rules can boost prices, limit choice and restrict access to information consumers need.

Competition commissioner Sheridan Scott says rules are necessary but removing some could benefit consumers and the economy.

Scott notes professions are more regulated in Canada than elsewhere. That could be compromising productivity and Canada's economic growth.

The report focuses on five disciplines - accountants, lawyers, optometrists, pharmacists and real-estate agents - but it says its findings can be applied to any self-regulated profession. ...more