TORONTO, Feb. 25, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the 2016 Ontario Budget, released today, Finance Minister Charles Sousa reaffirmed his commitment to review the regulatory framework relating to financial advisory and financial planning services.

"There are many viewpoints on this issue including which practitioners should be included in this review," says Advocis president and CEO Greg Pollock. "Advocis is encouraged that Minister Sousa continues to identify the need for a holistic review of the regulation of all financial advisors, inclusive of financial planners. We have a responsibility to protect those who trust and depend on us. Since anyone can call themselves a financial advisor, consumers are left vulnerable," says Pollock.

Advocis looks forward to the preliminary report from the Expert Committee to Consider Financial Advisory and Financial Planning Policy Alternatives, and is happy to provide feedback during the next round of consultation.

For more information, please call Darlene Francis, Director, Corporate Communications and Marketing, at 416-342-9896 / 1-800-563-5822, ext. 9896 or email dfrancis@advocis.ca.

About Advocis

Advocis, The Financial Advisors Association of Canada, is the association of choice for financial advisors and planners. With more than 12,000 members in 40 chapters across the country, Advocis is the definitive voice of the profession, advocating for professionalism and consumer protection. Advocis works with decision-makers and the public, stressing the value of financial advice and working toward an environment in which all Canadians have access to the advice they need.