No panels of the P.E.I. Human Rights Commission sat in 2008, as all complaints were settled before reaching that stage in the proceedings.
There have been no public hearing panel decisions by the commission since September 2007, but executive director David Larter told CBC News this week that several cases came close to having a panel convened.
"We found this year we've had a number that have been scheduled, however just prior to the panel commencing, the parties have agreed on it, without prejudice basis, that they're going to settle this matter," said Larter.
The lack of panels does not mean the commission hasn't been busy. Larter said at any given time, it is handling more than 60 cases.
The most common discrimination complaints involve employment, disabilities and political beliefs. Larter said it is better to resolve issues without the panel, which take a lot of time and money for everyone involved.
"It's akin to a lawsuit," he said.
"If I were to sue you and we appear in court, we're going to have to call our witnesses; it's the same thing with a panel hearing on the Human Rights Act."
While have been no cases in 2008, Larter said there are two or three cases currently on the commission's books that he expects will reach the panel stage in the new year.
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