The Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE), a watchdog established in 2019 to investigate potential human rights abuses by Canadian companies abroad, was abruptly dissolved by Prime Minister Mark Carney despite still accepting complaints at the time of its closure.

Carney claimed the decision was made 'months ago,' but a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada confirmed the office continued receiving complaints until the announcement.

Advocates criticized the abrupt closure as callous, citing the lack of communication with complainants and the prolonged vacancy of the top role, which prompted UN recommendations.The government redirected complaints to the National Contact Point (NCP), which lacks investigative powers, further disappointing critics.Carney's comments on the closure came during a discussion on U.S.tariffs, despite recent praise for the watchdog from senior officials.The decision highlights tensions between government efficiency claims and advocacy groups' concerns about accountability.