A “window of opportunity” happens when there is a better chance for you to be able to make change on an issue.
For example, maybe government is specifically looking for feedback on your issue through a public consultation. Maybe your issue has been in the news, so it is top of mind for government right now.
Windows of opportunity can present themselves at different times, and some are more predictable than others.
Here are some predictable windows of opportunity, when you can share feedback or input with government, elected officials or political candidates:
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Government budgets are prepared each winter and presented in early spring.
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Elections happen at least every four years at the federal and provincial/territorial level.
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Reviews are required after a certain number of years for some laws and regulations.
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Here are some of the more unpredictable windows of opportunity, which do not happen on a regular schedule:
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Public consultations and engagements happen when government is looking for public feedback about a specific topic.
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Committee hearings and studies happen when a bill is being studied before it becomes law. They may invite members of the public to provide input.
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An issue becomes newsworthy because of a crisis or scandal.
- There is a new public understanding of an issue due to current events.
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