What is the primary goal of the BAO regarding licensed facilities?

The primary goal of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) regarding licensed facilities is to ensure compliance with laws and standards. This oversight is crucial to maintaining the integrity and professionalism of funeral services within the province. By ensuring that licensed facilities adhere to the established laws and regulations, the BAO not only safeguards the interests of the public but also upholds the ethical standards of the funeral profession. Compliance helps to ensure that families receive the care and respect they deserve during sensitive times of loss, promoting both consumer protection and service quality.

While promoting competition among funeral homes may be a byproduct of a healthy marketplace, it is not the central focus of the BAO. Similarly, the BAO does not aim to restrict licenses; the emphasis is rather on quality and compliance, rather than limitations on the number of service providers. Providing funding for new establishments falls outside the scope of the BAO’s primary functions, which are more aligned with regulation and oversight than financial assistance.