Recent Amendments in Canadian Family Law Legislation: Updates & Changes

MS2017

“Navigating the new landscape of Canadian family law.”

Introduction

Recent Amendments in Canadian Family Law Legislation: Updates & Changes

In recent years, there have been several significant amendments made to Canadian family law legislation. These changes have had a significant impact on how family law cases are handled in Canada, and have brought about important updates to the legal framework governing family relationships. In this article, we will explore some of the key amendments that have been made to Canadian family law legislation, and discuss the implications of these changes for individuals involved in family law disputes.

Impact of Recent Amendments on Child Custody Arrangements

Recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant changes in the way child custody arrangements are determined. These updates aim to prioritize the best interests of the child and ensure that their well-being is the primary focus in custody disputes.

One of the key changes in the legislation is the shift towards shared parenting arrangements. This means that both parents are encouraged to play an active role in their child’s life, regardless of the nature of their relationship with each other. Shared parenting recognizes the importance of maintaining strong relationships with both parents for the child’s emotional and psychological development.

The amendments also emphasize the need for parents to collaborate and communicate effectively when making decisions about their child’s upbringing. This includes decisions about education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. By promoting cooperation between parents, the legislation aims to reduce conflict and create a more stable environment for the child.

In cases where shared parenting is not feasible or in the best interests of the child, the legislation provides guidelines for determining sole custody arrangements. Factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, their living situation, and any history of abuse or neglect are taken into consideration when making these decisions.

Another important aspect of the recent amendments is the recognition of the rights of the child to have a say in custody arrangements. Children are now given a voice in court proceedings and their preferences are taken into account when determining custody arrangements. This empowers children to have a say in decisions that directly impact their lives and well-being.

The amendments also address the issue of parental relocation. When one parent wishes to move with the child to a different city or province, they are required to seek permission from the other parent or the court. This ensures that both parents have a say in major decisions that could impact the child’s relationship with either parent.

Overall, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have had a significant impact on child custody arrangements. By prioritizing the best interests of the child, promoting shared parenting, and empowering children to have a say in custody decisions, the legislation aims to create a more equitable and child-centered approach to family law.

In conclusion, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about important changes in the way child custody arrangements are determined. By prioritizing the best interests of the child, promoting shared parenting, and empowering children to have a say in custody decisions, the legislation aims to create a more equitable and child-centered approach to family law. These updates reflect a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining strong relationships with both parents for the child’s emotional and psychological well-being.

Changes to Spousal Support Guidelines in Canadian Family Law

In recent years, there have been significant amendments to Canadian family law legislation, particularly in the area of spousal support guidelines. These changes have aimed to provide more clarity and consistency in determining spousal support payments, as well as to address issues of fairness and equity in the system.

One of the key changes in spousal support guidelines is the introduction of the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG). These guidelines were developed by a group of legal experts and are intended to provide a framework for courts to use when determining spousal support payments. The SSAG take into account factors such as the length of the marriage, the income of both parties, and any special circumstances that may affect the ability of one party to pay support.

The SSAG have been widely adopted by courts across Canada, and have helped to bring more consistency to spousal support decisions. By providing a clear formula for calculating support payments, the guidelines have helped to reduce the uncertainty and conflict that can arise when determining spousal support.

Another important change in spousal support guidelines is the recognition of the importance of self-sufficiency for both parties. In the past, spousal support was often seen as a lifelong obligation, with little consideration given to the ability of the recipient to become financially independent. However, the new guidelines emphasize the need for both parties to work towards self-sufficiency, and encourage recipients to take steps to improve their financial situation.

The changes to spousal support guidelines have also addressed issues of fairness and equity in the system. In the past, spousal support decisions were often based on outdated notions of gender roles, with women being seen as the primary caregivers and men as the primary breadwinners. However, the new guidelines take a more gender-neutral approach, recognizing that both parties may have contributed to the marriage in different ways.

Overall, the recent amendments to spousal support guidelines in Canadian family law have been a positive step towards creating a more fair and equitable system. By providing a clear framework for determining support payments, as well as emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency for both parties, the guidelines have helped to reduce conflict and uncertainty in spousal support decisions.

In conclusion, the changes to spousal support guidelines in Canadian family law have been a welcome development. By providing a clear formula for calculating support payments, as well as emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency for both parties, the guidelines have helped to bring more consistency and fairness to spousal support decisions. These changes have been a positive step towards creating a more equitable system that takes into account the needs and circumstances of both parties.

Updates on Property Division Laws in Canada

In recent years, there have been significant amendments to Canadian family law legislation, particularly in the area of property division. These changes have aimed to modernize and streamline the process of dividing assets and debts between separating or divorcing couples. Understanding these updates is crucial for anyone going through a separation or divorce in Canada.

One of the key changes in Canadian family law legislation is the introduction of the concept of “equalization of net family property.” This means that each spouse is entitled to an equal share of the increase in the value of their assets during the marriage. This includes not only physical assets such as real estate and vehicles but also financial assets such as investments and pensions.

To calculate the equalization payment, each spouse must determine their net family property, which is the value of their assets minus their debts at the date of separation. The spouse with the higher net family property must then make a payment to the other spouse to equalize their respective net family properties. This ensures that both spouses are treated fairly and equitably in the division of property.

Another important update in Canadian family law legislation is the recognition of the contributions of each spouse to the marriage. This includes both financial contributions, such as income earned during the marriage, as well as non-financial contributions, such as caring for children or managing the household. These contributions are taken into account when determining the division of property, ensuring that each spouse is recognized for their role in the marriage.

In addition to the equalization of net family property, Canadian family law legislation also addresses the division of specific assets, such as the matrimonial home. The matrimonial home is considered a special asset in the division of property, as it holds sentimental value for both spouses. In cases where one spouse wishes to keep the matrimonial home, they may be required to buy out the other spouse’s share or offset the value of the home with other assets.

It is important for separating or divorcing couples to seek legal advice when navigating the division of property in Canada. A family law lawyer can help couples understand their rights and obligations under the law and negotiate a fair and equitable division of assets and debts. By working with a lawyer, couples can avoid costly and time-consuming disputes and reach a resolution that works for both parties.

In conclusion, recent amendments to Canadian family law legislation have brought significant changes to the division of property between separating or divorcing couples. The introduction of the equalization of net family property and recognition of each spouse’s contributions to the marriage have helped to modernize and streamline the process of dividing assets and debts. Seeking legal advice is crucial for anyone going through a separation or divorce in Canada to ensure that their rights are protected and a fair resolution is reached.

New Regulations on Parenting Plans and Agreements

In recent years, Canadian family law legislation has seen significant changes and updates, particularly in the area of parenting plans and agreements. These changes aim to better protect the rights of children and ensure that their best interests are always the top priority in family law matters.

One of the key amendments in Canadian family law legislation is the introduction of mandatory parenting plans in cases of separation or divorce involving children. These parenting plans outline the responsibilities and rights of each parent regarding the care and upbringing of their children. They also address important issues such as custody, access, decision-making authority, and child support.

The introduction of mandatory parenting plans is a significant step forward in ensuring that children’s needs are met and that their relationships with both parents are maintained. By requiring parents to create a detailed plan for co-parenting, the new legislation aims to reduce conflict and promote cooperation between parents, ultimately benefiting the children involved.

Another important change in Canadian family law legislation is the emphasis on alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve parenting disputes. These methods offer a more collaborative and less adversarial approach to resolving conflicts, allowing parents to work together to find solutions that are in the best interests of their children.

By encouraging parents to use alternative dispute resolution methods, the new legislation aims to reduce the strain and cost of litigation on families and promote a more amicable and child-focused approach to resolving parenting disputes. This shift towards alternative dispute resolution reflects a growing recognition of the importance of preserving relationships and minimizing the negative impact of conflict on children.

In addition to mandatory parenting plans and alternative dispute resolution methods, Canadian family law legislation has also introduced changes to the way child support payments are calculated. The new guidelines take into account both parents’ incomes and the amount of time each parent spends with the children, ensuring that child support payments are fair and reflective of the child’s needs.

These changes in child support calculations aim to provide greater clarity and consistency in determining child support payments, reducing disputes between parents and ensuring that children receive the financial support they require. By taking into account both parents’ incomes and contributions to the care of their children, the new guidelines aim to create a more equitable and child-focused approach to child support.

Overall, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation represent a significant step forward in protecting the rights of children and promoting a more child-focused approach to family law matters. By introducing mandatory parenting plans, encouraging alternative dispute resolution methods, and updating child support guidelines, the new legislation aims to ensure that children’s best interests are always the top priority in family law proceedings.

These changes reflect a growing recognition of the importance of preserving relationships and minimizing the negative impact of conflict on children. By promoting cooperation between parents, reducing the strain of litigation, and ensuring fair and consistent child support payments, the new legislation aims to create a more child-centered and supportive legal framework for families in Canada.

Implications of Amendments on Divorce Proceedings

The recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant changes in how divorce proceedings are conducted. These updates have implications for both spouses going through a divorce, as well as for legal professionals who handle such cases. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone involved in a divorce to ensure that their rights are protected and that the process is conducted fairly.

One of the key implications of the amendments is the emphasis on alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and collaborative law. These methods are now encouraged as a way to resolve disputes amicably and avoid lengthy court battles. This shift towards more collaborative approaches is aimed at reducing the emotional and financial toll that divorce proceedings can take on both parties.

Another important change is the introduction of new rules regarding spousal support. The amendments have clarified the factors that are taken into account when determining the amount and duration of spousal support payments. This includes factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial needs of each spouse, and the ability of the paying spouse to meet those needs. These changes aim to provide more certainty and fairness in spousal support arrangements.

Child custody and access arrangements have also been affected by the recent amendments. The legislation now places a greater emphasis on the best interests of the child when making decisions about custody and access. This means that the needs and preferences of the child are given more weight in determining where they will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. This shift towards a child-centered approach is intended to ensure that children are protected and supported during the divorce process.

The changes in family law legislation also have implications for legal professionals who handle divorce cases. Lawyers are now required to be more proactive in encouraging their clients to consider alternative dispute resolution methods before resorting to litigation. This means that legal professionals must be well-versed in mediation and collaborative law techniques in order to best serve their clients’ interests.

Furthermore, the amendments have introduced new requirements for legal professionals to disclose their fees and billing practices to their clients. This is aimed at increasing transparency and ensuring that clients are fully informed about the costs associated with their legal representation. These changes are intended to protect clients from unexpected fees and ensure that they have a clear understanding of the financial implications of their divorce proceedings.

In conclusion, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have significant implications for divorce proceedings. The emphasis on alternative dispute resolution methods, the changes in spousal support rules, and the focus on the best interests of the child all aim to make the divorce process more fair and equitable for all parties involved. Legal professionals must be aware of these changes in order to best serve their clients’ interests and ensure that the process is conducted in a manner that is respectful and efficient.

Modifications to Child Support Calculations

In recent years, Canadian family law legislation has undergone significant changes, particularly in the area of child support calculations. These amendments aim to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents following a separation or divorce. The updates to the legislation have been designed to make the child support calculation process more transparent, fair, and consistent for all parties involved.

One of the key changes in the recent amendments to Canadian family law legislation is the introduction of the Federal Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines provide a framework for calculating child support payments based on the income of both parents and the number of children involved. The guidelines take into account various factors, such as the custody arrangement, the income of each parent, and any special expenses related to the child’s care.

The Federal Child Support Guidelines have been designed to ensure that child support payments are fair and reflect the financial circumstances of both parents. By using a standardized formula to calculate child support, the guidelines help to reduce disputes and ensure that children receive the financial support they need to thrive.

In addition to the introduction of the Federal Child Support Guidelines, recent amendments to Canadian family law legislation have also addressed the issue of shared custody arrangements. In cases where parents share custody of their children, the child support calculation can be more complex. The recent amendments have provided clear guidelines for calculating child support in shared custody situations, taking into account the income of both parents and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.

These changes to the legislation aim to ensure that children in shared custody arrangements receive adequate financial support from both parents, regardless of the custody arrangement. By providing clear guidelines for calculating child support in shared custody situations, the amendments help to reduce disputes and ensure that children’s financial needs are met.

Another important change in the recent amendments to Canadian family law legislation is the inclusion of provisions for determining child support in cases where one parent has a higher income than the other. In these situations, the higher-earning parent may be required to pay a larger share of the child support, based on their income level.

These provisions aim to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents, even in cases where one parent has a significantly higher income. By taking into account the income disparity between the parents, the amendments help to ensure that children’s financial needs are met, regardless of the financial circumstances of their parents.

Overall, the recent amendments to Canadian family law legislation have made significant changes to the way child support is calculated. By introducing the Federal Child Support Guidelines, addressing shared custody arrangements, and providing provisions for cases where one parent has a higher income, the amendments aim to ensure that children receive the financial support they need following a separation or divorce.

These changes have been designed to make the child support calculation process more transparent, fair, and consistent for all parties involved. By providing clear guidelines for calculating child support in various situations, the amendments help to reduce disputes and ensure that children’s financial needs are met.

Recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant changes to the legal landscape surrounding family violence. These updates aim to provide better protection for victims of domestic abuse and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Understanding the legal ramifications of these changes is crucial for both victims and those accused of family violence.

One of the key changes in the legislation is the expansion of what constitutes family violence. In the past, family violence was often narrowly defined as physical abuse. However, the updated laws now recognize that family violence can take many forms, including emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. This broader definition allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of abuse within families and provides better protection for victims who may not have experienced physical violence.

Another important change is the introduction of new measures to address family violence more effectively. For example, the legislation now allows for the issuance of emergency protection orders to provide immediate relief to victims of family violence. These orders can help ensure the safety of victims and their children by requiring the perpetrator to stay away from the family home and refrain from contacting the victim.

Additionally, the amendments have strengthened the penalties for those found guilty of family violence. Perpetrators may now face harsher consequences, including longer jail sentences and more stringent conditions for release. These tougher penalties send a clear message that family violence will not be tolerated in Canadian society and that those who commit such acts will be held accountable for their actions.

It is important for both victims and those accused of family violence to understand the legal ramifications of these changes. Victims should be aware of their rights and the resources available to them, such as shelters, counseling services, and legal aid. They should also know how to access emergency protection orders and other legal remedies to ensure their safety and well-being.

On the other hand, those accused of family violence must understand the potential consequences of their actions. They should seek legal advice and representation to navigate the legal system and defend themselves against any allegations of abuse. It is essential for them to take these accusations seriously and cooperate with the legal process to ensure a fair and just outcome.

In conclusion, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant changes to the legal framework surrounding family violence. These updates aim to provide better protection for victims of abuse and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Understanding the legal ramifications of these changes is crucial for both victims and those accused of family violence. By being informed and seeking appropriate legal advice, individuals can navigate the legal system effectively and ensure that their rights are protected.

Recent Developments in Adoption Legislation

Recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant updates and changes in various aspects of family law, including adoption legislation. These changes aim to better protect the rights of children, streamline adoption processes, and ensure that the best interests of the child are always the top priority.

One of the key updates in adoption legislation is the emphasis on open adoption agreements. Open adoption agreements allow for ongoing contact between the birth parents, adoptive parents, and the child. This can include visits, phone calls, and letters, depending on the agreement reached by all parties involved. Open adoption agreements are becoming increasingly common in Canada, as they are believed to be beneficial for the child’s emotional well-being and sense of identity.

Another important change in adoption legislation is the recognition of the rights of Indigenous communities in the adoption process. Indigenous children are overrepresented in the child welfare system, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of keeping Indigenous children connected to their culture, language, and community. Recent amendments in adoption legislation require that Indigenous communities be consulted and involved in the adoption process to ensure that the child’s cultural identity is respected and preserved.

In addition to these changes, there have been updates in adoption legislation regarding the eligibility of adoptive parents. The criteria for eligibility have been revised to be more inclusive and reflective of the diverse family structures in Canada. Single parents, same-sex couples, and individuals of all backgrounds are now able to adopt, provided they meet the necessary requirements and can provide a loving and stable home for the child.

Furthermore, recent amendments in adoption legislation have also focused on streamlining the adoption process to make it more efficient and less bureaucratic. This includes reducing the wait times for prospective adoptive parents, simplifying the paperwork involved, and providing more support and resources for families throughout the adoption process. These changes are aimed at making adoption more accessible and encouraging more families to consider adoption as a way to grow their families.

Overall, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant updates and changes in adoption legislation. These changes reflect a growing understanding of the importance of protecting the rights of children, promoting their well-being, and ensuring that their best interests are always the top priority. By emphasizing open adoption agreements, recognizing the rights of Indigenous communities, expanding the eligibility of adoptive parents, and streamlining the adoption process, these updates aim to create a more inclusive, efficient, and child-centered adoption system in Canada.

Effects of Amendments on Same-Sex Marriage Rights

In recent years, Canadian family law legislation has undergone significant amendments to reflect the changing societal norms and values. One of the key areas that have seen substantial updates and changes is the recognition and protection of same-sex marriage rights. These amendments have had a profound impact on the legal landscape surrounding same-sex couples and their families.

One of the most significant changes in Canadian family law legislation was the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2005. This landmark decision by the Canadian government marked a major milestone in the fight for equality and recognition of LGBTQ+ rights. Prior to this amendment, same-sex couples were not afforded the same legal rights and protections as opposite-sex couples when it came to marriage and family law matters.

The legalization of same-sex marriage in Canada had far-reaching effects on the legal rights and protections of same-sex couples. It granted same-sex couples the same legal recognition and benefits as opposite-sex couples, including the right to marry, divorce, and adopt children. This amendment was a crucial step towards achieving equality and inclusivity in the Canadian legal system.

Furthermore, the legalization of same-sex marriage also had implications for other areas of family law, such as spousal support, property division, and child custody. Same-sex couples were now entitled to the same rights and obligations as opposite-sex couples in these matters, ensuring that they were treated fairly and equitably under the law.

In addition to the legalization of same-sex marriage, there have been other amendments in Canadian family law legislation that have further strengthened the rights of same-sex couples. For example, changes have been made to the definition of “spouse” in various family law statutes to include same-sex partners. This ensures that same-sex couples are entitled to the same legal rights and protections as opposite-sex couples in matters such as spousal support and property division.

Moreover, amendments have been made to the laws governing assisted reproduction and parentage to accommodate the unique circumstances of same-sex couples. These changes have allowed same-sex couples to access assisted reproduction services and establish legal parentage of their children, ensuring that their families are recognized and protected under the law.

Overall, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have had a positive impact on the rights and protections of same-sex couples. These changes have helped to level the playing field for same-sex couples and ensure that they are treated equally under the law. The legalization of same-sex marriage and other amendments have been instrumental in promoting equality, inclusivity, and diversity in the Canadian legal system.

In conclusion, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant updates and changes in the recognition and protection of same-sex marriage rights. These changes have had a profound impact on the legal rights and protections of same-sex couples, ensuring that they are treated fairly and equitably under the law. The legalization of same-sex marriage and other amendments have been crucial steps towards achieving equality and inclusivity in the Canadian legal system, and have helped to create a more just and inclusive society for all.

Overview of Grandparent Rights in Light of Recent Family Law Changes

In recent years, Canadian family law legislation has undergone significant changes, particularly in the area of grandparent rights. These changes have sparked debates and discussions among legal professionals, policymakers, and families alike. Understanding the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation is crucial for anyone involved in family law matters, especially those concerning grandparent rights.

One of the key changes in Canadian family law legislation is the recognition of the importance of maintaining relationships between grandparents and their grandchildren. In the past, grandparents often faced challenges in seeking access to their grandchildren in cases of family breakdown or disputes. However, recent amendments have sought to address this issue by providing grandparents with more rights and opportunities to maintain meaningful relationships with their grandchildren.

These changes reflect a growing recognition of the valuable role that grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren. Grandparents can provide emotional support, guidance, and stability to their grandchildren, especially in times of family turmoil. By acknowledging and protecting the rights of grandparents, Canadian family law legislation aims to promote the well-being of children and strengthen family relationships.

One of the key amendments in Canadian family law legislation is the inclusion of specific provisions regarding grandparent access and custody rights. These provisions outline the circumstances under which grandparents can seek access to their grandchildren and the factors that courts should consider when making decisions about grandparent rights. This clarity and guidance are essential for ensuring that grandparents have a fair and reasonable opportunity to maintain relationships with their grandchildren.

Moreover, recent changes in Canadian family law legislation have also emphasized the importance of mediation and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in resolving conflicts involving grandparent rights. Mediation can help families reach mutually acceptable agreements regarding grandparent access and custody, without the need for lengthy and costly court proceedings. By encouraging mediation, Canadian family law legislation aims to promote cooperation and communication among family members and reduce the adversarial nature of family law disputes.

Another significant development in Canadian family law legislation is the recognition of the rights of grandparents in cases of parental separation or divorce. In such situations, grandparents may face challenges in maintaining relationships with their grandchildren, especially if one or both parents are unwilling to facilitate contact. Recent amendments have sought to address this issue by providing grandparents with legal avenues to seek access to their grandchildren, even in cases of parental conflict.

Overall, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation represent a positive step towards recognizing and protecting the rights of grandparents in family law matters. These changes reflect a growing awareness of the important role that grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren and the need to ensure that these relationships are preserved and nurtured. By providing grandparents with more rights and opportunities to maintain relationships with their grandchildren, Canadian family law legislation aims to promote the well-being of children and strengthen family ties.

In conclusion, the recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant changes in the area of grandparent rights. These changes reflect a growing recognition of the valuable role that grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren and the importance of maintaining relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. By providing grandparents with more rights and opportunities to seek access to their grandchildren, Canadian family law legislation aims to promote the well-being of children and strengthen family relationships. It is essential for legal professionals, policymakers, and families to understand these changes and their implications for grandparent rights in family law matters.

Q&A

1. What are some recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation?
– Changes to the Divorce Act, including new terminology and considerations for the best interests of the child.

2. How have the recent amendments impacted child custody arrangements?
– The amendments prioritize the child’s best interests and encourage shared parenting arrangements.

3. What changes have been made to spousal support laws?
– The amendments provide clearer guidelines for determining spousal support amounts and duration.

4. How have the recent amendments addressed family violence in family law cases?
– The amendments require courts to consider any history of family violence when making decisions about parenting arrangements.

5. What updates have been made to the enforcement of family law orders?
– The amendments provide new tools for enforcing family law orders, such as the ability to suspend a driver’s license for non-compliance.

6. How have the recent amendments impacted the process of obtaining a divorce in Canada?
– The changes aim to streamline the divorce process and reduce conflict between parties.

7. What changes have been made to the calculation of child support payments?
– The amendments provide updated guidelines for calculating child support payments based on income and parenting arrangements.

8. How have the recent amendments addressed the rights of grandparents in family law cases?
– The amendments give grandparents more rights to seek access to their grandchildren in certain circumstances.

9. What updates have been made to the process of resolving family law disputes outside of court?
– The amendments encourage the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration.

10. How have the recent amendments impacted the rights of common-law partners in Canada?
– The changes provide more clarity on the rights and responsibilities of common-law partners in family law matters.

Conclusion

The recent amendments in Canadian family law legislation have brought about significant updates and changes that aim to better protect the rights and well-being of individuals and families. These changes reflect the evolving nature of family dynamics and strive to ensure that the legal system is equipped to address the diverse needs of Canadian families. Overall, the amendments represent a positive step towards creating a more equitable and just family law system in Canada.

Share This Article
Leave a comment