Appearance before the Committee of the Whole on behalf of Other Government Departments: 2021-2022 Supplementary Estimates (B) - December 7-8, 2021

Annex A - AAFC's 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) Summary

As at October 27, 2021

Issue

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) total net spending of $584.1 million.

Response

Most of these new funds will go to:

• Producers who faced drought and wildfires in 2021 ($400M);
• Farmers who face income declines beyond what they can manage themselves ($113.2M);
• The Canadian Agricultural Partnership cost-shared programs, which drive sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness of the sector ($42.7M); and to
• Help producers find ways to reduce emissions and store carbon ($17.4M).

Background

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) of $584.1 million, when added to the 2021-22 Main Estimates of $3.023 billion, and the Supplementary Estimates (A) of $278.1 million, amounts carried forward from the prior year and amounts transferred from central votes, bring AAFC's 2021-22 Authorities to Date to approximately $3.911 billion.

AAFC's 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) of $584.1 million are made up of the following:

Issue

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) total a net amount of $584.1 million. What is this funding for?

Response

Most of these new funds will go to:

• The AgriRecovery program ($400 million), to help producers who faced drought and wildfires in 2021;
• The AgriStability program ($113.2 million), for farmers who face income declines beyond what they can manage themselves (we removed a cap on AgriStability payments amounts);
• The Canadian Agricultural Partnership cost-shared and federally-attributed programs with provinces and territories ($42.7M). These investments will drive sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness of the sector;
• On-Farm Climate Action programming ($17.4 million), to support producers to find ways to reduce emissions and store carbon.

Background

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) of $584.1 million are made up of the following key items:

Issue

Rising food costs are creating challenges for some Canadians to afford a nutritious diet.

Response

• Making life more affordable is a priority for our Government. This is why we have made child care and affordable housing among the top priorities for our new mandate, building on other policies like the Canada Child Benefit.
• Most people in Canada enjoy access to a wide variety of food, but increasing food prices are creating or posing further challenges for some. Food price increases are felt the most by households who were already struggling to afford food.
• Canada is not alone in facing higher food prices. These commodity price trends are being felt worldwide as a result of poor harvests, supply chain issues and other challenges.
• As set out in A Food Policy for Canada, our vision is that all people should be able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food.
• We are working hard to ensure all Canadians have reliable access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food, and to strengthen Canada's food systems. Through the Food Policy the Government of Canada invested an initial $134.4 million in new programming, including support to address the unique food security challenges faced by Indigenous and northern communities. The $300 million Emergency Food Security Fund is also helping food banks and national organizations provide food to those that need it.
• Working with the provinces and territories, through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, we support the agriculture sector in sustainably producing high-quality food for Canadians and the world. The Partnership is a $3 billion investment from 2018 to 2023 to strengthen and grow the sector.

Background

Increases in the cost of living put pressure on households to meet their essential needs, including food. In 2019, Canadians spent 11% of total household expenditures on food. Household income is the strongest predictor of food insecurity and is consistently monitored in Canadian household surveys. Before the pandemic, an estimated 12.5% of Canadians did not have the income they needed to afford food. Multiple federal initiatives aim to address incomes, which are a main driver of household food insecurity, including Employment and Social Development Canada's (ESDC) Poverty Reduction Strategy. Beyond economic access, physical access, availability and affordability affect food insecurity.

As of October overall inflation is running at approximately 4.7% per year, while food prices are increasing at about 3.8% per year, both levels being above the pre-COVID rates of inflation.

Canada has an abundant supply of agricultural resources, strong collaboration between industry and scientists to develop cutting-edge food products and technologies, and world-class regulations and food safety systems. Canadian farmers produce high-quality food, in an environmentally sustainable manner. Most people in Canada enjoy access to a wide variety of healthy, affordable domestic and imported food, and Canadians typically allocate a smaller portion of their income to food than residents of most other countries.

The Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a $3 billion five-year (2018-2023), investment by federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments to strengthen and grow Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector with:

• simplified and streamlined programs and services that are easier to access
• improvements to programs to manage significant risks that threaten the viability of farms
• $2 billion in FPT cost-shared strategic initiatives
• $1 billion for federal activities and programs

The Food Policy for Canada seeks to create healthier and more sustainable food systems in Canada. The Food Policy brings a coordinated approach to addressing food issues in Canada by building stronger linkages across existing federal initiatives that affect food. During Food Policy consultations, food security was identified as a priority issue that required greater government attention.

Through the Food Policy for Canada, the Government of Canada invested an initial $134.4 million in new programming, including programming to address the unique food security challenges faced by Indigenous and northern communities. Initiatives in this area are intended to address key aspects of food security, including the Local Food Infrastructure Fund and the Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund.

Introduced by Crown-Indigenous Relations in April 2020, the Harvest Support Grant Program was developed in direct collaboration with Indigenous partners to increase their access to traditional foods by supporting hunting, harvesting and food sharing activities.

As part of the Government of Canada's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) invested close to $300 million in the Emergency Food Security Fund to support food assistance organizations. AAFC also invested $50 million in the Surplus Food Rescue Program, which helped redirect existing food surpluses to organizations addressing food insecurity.

Other government departments have also implemented measures to address food insecurity during the pandemic. Notably, Nutrition North Canada received a one-time financial injection of $25 million to increase the subsidy rates in northern eligible communities during COVID-19. In addition, Employment and Social Development Canada is providing $350 million through an Emergency Community Support Fund.

Since March 2020, Indigenous Services Canada has provided more than $1.8 billion for the Indigenous Community Support Fund (ICSF), a needs-based approach of emergency COVID-19 programming. The ICSF ensures First Nation, Inuit, Métis and urban Indigenous leadership and organizations have the flexibility needed to design and implement community-based solutions to prevent, prepare and respond to the pandemic within their communities. In December 2020, AAFC transferred $30 million from the Emergency Food Security Fund to Indigenous Services Canada to be used as part of the ICSF to assist with issues of food security.

Dairy Prices

In October 2021, the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) conducted a review of Canadian farm gate milk prices and various other costs used in administering the supply management system. As a result of the review and consultations, the CDC intends to implement the following changes on February 1, 2022.

First, subject to adoption by provincial marketing boards, the farm gate milk price will increase by $6.31/hl (or $0.06 per litre). The increase in producers' revenues will partially offset increased production costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic which caused revenues to remain below the cost of production. Feed, energy, and fertilizer costs have been particularly impacted. This will increase by an average of 8.4% the cost of milk used to make dairy products for the retail and restaurant sectors. However, the increase in the cost to processors will depend on the butterfat and solids non fat content of the product they manufacture.

The support price for butter used by the CDC in its storage programs will increase from $8.7149 to $9.7923 per kg on February 1, 2022, an increase of 12.4%. The impact of these adjustments on retail prices will depend on many factors such as manufacturing, transportation, distribution, and packaging costs throughout the supply chain.

The broader inflationary context is impacting all food commodities, dairy retail prices have risen much less than overall food prices in recent years (6.5% dairy inflation since 2010 vs. 25% for all food). Year-to-year dairy prices have also been relatively stable when compared to other commodities.

Issue

In October 2021, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the presence of potato wart, a quarantine pest to Canada that is regulated by the CFIA, on two processing farms in Prince Edward Island (PEI). On November 2, 2021, CFIA suspended the certification of movement of seed potatoes from PEI to the US. In response to concerns from the US, the Agency issued an additional suspension of certification on November 21, 2021 to also include processing and table stock potatoes. Technical discussions are underway with the US to resume trade. Potato wart was first detected in PEI in 2000.

Response

• Our Government has a Potato Wart Domestic Long-Term Management Plan in place to minimize the impact Canadian industry and potato growers.
• The Canadian Food Inspection Agency immediately initiated an investigation and implemented strict regulatory measures to prevent potential spread.
• On November 21, 2021, a Ministerial Order was issued to restrict the movement of seed potatoes from PEI, and impose requirements on the movement of processing and table stock potatoes from PEI to other parts of Canada.
• The CFIA's decision to suspend export certification was made at the request of the United States in order to avoid the implementation of a Federal Order that would prohibit the import of potatoes from PEI and more restrictive requirements on the import of potatoes.
• We continue to actively engage with our United States counterparts to determine what next steps are necessary to resume trade.
• Export certification will not resume until the United States has signalled to the CFIA that importation into the US can resume.
• There is no human health or food safety risk associated with this pest.
• A suite of business risk management programs, including AgriStability and AgriInsurance, are available to provide support to producers. AgriStability interim payments in PEI have increased from 50% to 75%, to provide producers access to more funds if needed, and the province has also requested late participation to allow other producers to participate in the program.

Background

In October 2021, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the presence of potato wart, a quarantine pest to Canada that is regulated by the CFIA, on two processing farms in Prince Edward Island (PEI). On November 2, 2021, CFIA suspended the movement of seed potatoes from PEI to the US. In response to concerns from the US, the Agency amended this suspension on November 21, 2021 to also include processing and table stock potatoes. Technical discussions are underway with the US to resume trade.

Potato wart is a regulated, soil-borne fungal disease that can remain dormant in a field for more than 40 years. It is spread through the movement of infested tubers, soil and farm equipment. Potato wart reduces yield and can make potatoes unmarketable. Potato wart was first detected in PEI in 2000.

Control measures are required to manage potato wart. Potatoes produced in the affected fields must be processed in a manner that would not spread the disease. The affected areas of the farms will remain under restrictions for several decades.

Following the latest detections of potato wart on PEI, the US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has expressed concerns related to the importation of seed, table stock and processing potatoes from PEI.

Under Canada's Plant Protection Regulations, certificates for export can only be issued if the requirements of the importing country are met.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has therefore suspended the certification of fresh potatoes originating from PEI to the US while risk and risk management measures are being reviewed. This does not apply to processed potatoes, such as frozen products.

The US has committed to maintaining technical discussions with the CFIA and details from the ongoing 2021 potato wart investigations will be shared. The CFIA will continue to work closely with the US to address their concerns and minimize impacts to trade.

Business risk management

Business risk management (BRM) programs – including AgriStability, AgriInvest, and AgriRecovery (see "Support for Farmers" card) – are joint Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) programs that are in place to help producers manage risks that threaten the viability of their farms, and provide protection against different types of income and production losses.

Participation of PEI potato producers in AgriStability is high, with 80% of producers participating in the program. The province has requested late participation, which will allow more producers to participate until the end of the calendar year. AgriInsurance will respond to production and quality losses directly caused by potato wart (i.e. directly infected farms).

Issue

The Government of Canada is taking action to help farmers who are facing financial hardships, disasters, and trade challenges.

Fact sheet covers: Business risk management programs, Western drought, and B.C. flooding. A separate fact sheet has been prepared on potato wart.

Response

• The agriculture and agri-food sector is a major contributor to the Canadian economy. In 2020, the agriculture and processing sectors accounted for 3.8% of our GDP. Farm market receipts hit a record $68.7 billion.
• The Government of Canada works with provinces and territories to provide farmers with programs to protect them against income and production losses, helping them to manage risks that threaten the viability of their farms.
• In March, we worked with the provinces to provide an additional $100 million to producers by removing the reference margin limit for AgriStability, to help producers better manage risks and financial losses from poor yields, low commodity prices or rising input costs.

Background

Issue

What help does AAFC provide producers on issues related to climate change, including increased costs for grain drying?

Response

• Farmers are at the forefront of the climate change, and the Government has announced over $550 million dollars in supports over the last year under three different targeted initiatives.
• The Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs is a 10 year $185 million program, bringing together farmers, scientists, and other sector partners to co-develop, test and monitor beneficial management practices on working farms to increase carbon sequestration and enhance climate resiliency.
• Through the Agricultural Climate Solutions – On-Farm Climate Action Fund, the Government will invest $200 million over three years to immediately support farmers in increasing the adoption of beneficial management practices that reduce greenhouse gases and store carbon, specifically in the areas of nitrogen management, cover cropping, and rotational grazing.
• Additionally, the Agricultural Clean Technology program will provide $165.7-million to farmers and processors so that they can access the latest clean technologies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhance competitiveness. $50 million of the program's funding is dedicated to support the purchase and installation of more efficient grain dryers and $10 million toward powering farms with clean energy and moving off diesel.
• The program has been well received, in particular, demand for the purchase of more efficient grain dryers. We have received an extraordinary number of applications and are in the process of assessing these proposals.
• We are also developing a Canadian agri-environmental strategy to support the sector's actions on climate change and other environmental priorities towards 2030.

Background

Issue

To provide information on the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) for the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA). The CTA's supplementary estimates include one item for $3,522,137 related to its Implementation of Workplace 2.0 office standards.

Response

• In order to meet its obligations under the Deficit Reduction Action Plan and bring its accommodations in line with the Government of Canada current workplace fit-up standards, the CTA will be relocated to a new building currently under construction and located at 60 Laval in Gatineau. Public Service and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is leading this project while the CTA is expected to cover costs associated to its office space only (e.g. costs associated with the move, workplace setup, equipment required, etc.)
• The relocation of the CTA involves a major, one-time, capital expenditure which the CTA, as a small organization, cannot absorb in full in a single fiscal year. Therefore, in August 2016, the CTA submitted to the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS) a request to obtain funds from its future existing reference levels (referred to as a Reverse Re-profile Request). The request was approved by TBS and the CTA is required to "repay" this Reverse Re-profile through an annual reduction in reference levels, for a period of 15 years.
• While the CTA's Reverse Re-profile Request was approved in 2016, it had not yet accessed those funds given that PSPC was not yet ready for the CTA's move. However, now that the CTA will undertake its move in April 2022, it is seeking those pre-approved Reverse Re-profile funds through the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates B, which was tabled on November 27, 2021.

Suggested Responses

• As Minister of Transport, my mandate is to ensure that Canadians have access to a transportation system that is efficient, reliable, safe and environmentally responsible.
• The Government of Canada recognizes theimportance of creating High Frequency Rail for the Toronto-Quebec City Corridor, working with the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.
• HFR would transform intercity travel in the Toronto to Quebec City corridor by providing Canadians with faster, more frequent and reliable train service.
• As I announced last July alongside several of my colleagues and partners, the Government of Canada has launched the first steps in preparing for the procurement process. Work is progressing well and I look forward to announcing the next phase of the project in due course.

Background Information

• In August 2019, the Government committed $71.1 million, including funds from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB), in order to establish a Joint Project Office comprised of the CIB and VIA Rail. This office undertook an extensive amount of due diligence, analysis, and de-risking work on the HFR proposal and considerable progress has been made in advancing project design and engineering. This work has led to more robust estimates and forecasts and many key elements have also either evolved or have been refined, including trip times, routing, and max speed. Furthermore, electrification of the HFR service (including the use of bi-mode locomotives) is a key new attribute of the project and supports the Government's objective of supporting cleaner travel options.
• In Budget 2021, there was funding to support the advancement of the HFR project, including complementary enhancements to VIA's existing services. Specifically, $4.4 million to Transport Canada and VIA Rail to support their work with the HFR Joint Project Office, which would be used to complete the necessary analysis and assessment of options to reduce possible risks associated with a project of this magnitude; and
• $491.2 million to VIA Rail for infrastructure investments which would help reduce existing bottlenecks between Toronto and Quebec City and improve fluidity and connectivity in the nearer-term. These complementary investments would also allow VIA Rail to take an important step towards HFR.
• With a considerable amount of progress having been made on the project, the Government of Canada is taking the first steps towards launching the procurement process for the HFR project. These steps include: engaging Indigenous groups and communities to obtain early feedback on the project; engaging with the private sector to determine capacity and seek perspectives on the best possible delivery model; and accelerating dialogue with partner railways to negotiate dedicated routes in and out of city centres.

Suggested Responses

• The Government is committed to ensuring that by 2035, 100% of new light duty vehicles sold in Canada are to be zero-emission vehicles.
• The federal Incentives for the Zero-Emission Vehicles Program (iZEV) provides a point-of-sale incentive of up to $5,000 for the purchase or lease of eligible zero-emission vehicles, as the higher purchase price of those vehicles is a barrier to their uptake.
• From the outset, the Program has showed strong results. Since its launch in May 2019, over 121,000 Canadians and Canadian businesses have benefited from the point-of-sale incentive.
• Zero-emission vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce Canada's greenhouse emissions and support Canada's transition to a low-carbon transportation system.

If Pressed

Tesla Model 3 no longer being eligible under iZEV due to price increase as of November 23

• Vehicle pricing is a business decision and any questions on this should be referred to individual automakers.
• Transport Canada has a process in place for vehicles exiting the program due to a price increase that ensures consumers aren't unfairly penalized.
• Any consumer who placed an order for an affected vehicle before the price increase could still receive an incentive, subject to funding availability, even if the sale or lease agreement is completed after the price change has occurred.

Background Information

• Light-duty vehicle emissions account for approximately 50% of Canada's transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions, and 12% of the country's total emissions. Zero-emission vehicles offer the potential to significantly reduce emissions in the transportation sector, particularly over the long-term.
• In June 2021, the Government announced that by 2035, 100% of new light duty vehicles sold in Canada are to be zero-emission vehicles, accelerating Canada's previous goal of 100% sales by 2040.
• To date, the Government of Canada has invested more than $1 billion in measures to support increasing zero-emission vehicle adoption including the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles Program, charging infrastructure and zero-emission vehicle awareness intiatives.
• As of November 23, 2021, the Tesla Model 3 "Standard Range Plus" vehicle, which was the most popular vehicle under the Program, is no longer eligible for the incentive due to a price increase. The "Standard Range" base model has also been discontinued as of this date.
• Transport Canada has put in place a process for any vehicles exiting the program due to price changes. Consumers who place orders for affected vehicles before the price change has occurred will receive an incentive upon the completion of the sale/lease transaction, subject to funding availability.

Suggested Responses

• The Government of Canada's response to the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to prioritize the health and safety of Canadians. We are committed to keeping our transportation sector, including employees and travellers, safe and secure.
• Transport Canada has taken concrete actions in all modes to protect passengers and essential transportation workers while continuing to support the flow of critical goods and services during this unprecedented global crisis.
• With vaccination rates around the world increasing, and the epidemiological situation continuing to evolve, it is important that Canada's border measures reflect the current global context.
• Vaccination continues to play an important role in keeping each other and our transportation system safe and secure. That is why we are ensuring travellers are vaccinated against COVID-19.
• As of October 30, employers in the federally regulated air, rail and marine transportation sectors are required to establish vaccination policies for their employees.
• Also effective October 30, all travellers 12 years of age plus four months, departing from Canadian airports, and travellers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, are required to be fully vaccinated to travel.
• For a short transition period - until November 29, 2021, travellers have the option to show proof of a valid COVID-19 molecular test within 72 hours of travel as an alternative to providing proof of vaccination.
• Effective November 30, 2021, a valid COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination unless travellers qualify for one of the limited exemptions.
• The Interim Order banning cruise ships in Canadian waters was lifted on November 1, 2021. The Government of Canada will continue to work with the cruise ship industry, international partners and the provinces and territories to facilitate the safe re-opening of Canada to cruise ship travel in spring 2022.
• Ensuring a healthy and safe transportation sector is essential for reopening borders, restarting the tourism industry and for the safety and security of all. Transportation will play a vital role in supporting the country's economic recovery.

If Pressed

• The Government of Canada is engaged with key stakeholders to support the implementation of the vaccination requirement.
• Effective November 30, 2021, all individuals travelling within Canada on planes or trains as well as those departing Canada by air need to be fully vaccinated. This includes Canadian citizens and permanent residents residing outside the country who may wish to enter Canada and depart again after November 30th.
• While unvaccinated Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and persons registered under the Indian Act will be able to enter Canada as of November 30, 2021, they will not be permitted to travel beyond their point of entry within Canada by air or rail unless they meet one of the limited exceptions. This means they will not be allowed to take a connecting flight or train beyond their point of entry.
• Before travelling to Canada, all individuals should verify that they meet the definition of fully vaccinated in order to avoid any issues when travelling on board a domestic flight or back to their country of residence.
• Unvaccinated new permanent residents and resettling refugees will be allowed to travel onward domestically in order to become established in Canada.
• Unvaccinated foreign nationals who are permitted entry into Canada will also be allowed to take a connecting flight to their final destination that is scheduled to depart within 24 hours of the departure time of their flight to enter Canada. However, as of November 30, 2021, if they remain unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be allowed to take a plane or train beyond their original connection, except to depart Canada before February 28, 2022.
• Furthermore, as of January 15, 2022, the number of exemptions afforded to unvaccinated foreign nationals will be curtailed.

Background Information

• Throughout the pandemic, Transport Canada, along with key federal, provincial, territorial partners, and in consultation with industry and unions, has developed guidance documents and tools to help limit the spread and mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 in the transportation sector while keeping transportation gateways open.
• As of October 30, employers in the federally regulated air and rail sectors, and as of November 1 in the marine sector, are required to establish vaccination policies for their organizations.
• Specifically, the vaccination requirement will apply to:
  • airlines and airports, and other organizations who have employees who enter restricted areas of airports, such as concession and hospitality workers
  • federally regulated railways, and their rail crew and track employees
  • marine operators with Canadian vessels that operate with 12 or more crew
• Transport Canada is using its specific regulatory and oversight authorities to ensure that the transportation system and these workplaces are safe through vaccination mandates.
• Each organization will be required to implement a rigorous policy, which must:
  • Include a provision for employee attestation/declaration of their vaccination status;
  • Include a description of consequences for employees who do not comply or who falsify information; and
  • Meet standards consistent with the approach taken by the Government of Canada for the Core Public Administration.
• After a short phase-in period each organization is required to guarantee employees are fully vaccinated or they will be unable to work.
• For travellers, as of November 30, a valid COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination for travel within and departing Canada. If travellers have not already started the vaccination process, they will not be eligible to travel starting November 30 unless they qualify for one of the limited exceptions for emergencies or special accomodations for designated remote communities.
• The specific accommodations continue to recognize the unique needs of travellers from small, remote communities (some of which are not accessible by road) to ensure they will be able to travel to obtain essential services in support of their medical, health, or social well-being, and return safely to their homes. The specific requirements for these communities will continue to evolve based on engagement with Indigenous organizations and provinces and territories in the coming weeks.
• The limited exceptions to the mandatory vaccination requirement for travel within Canada and departing Canada include:
  • Medical inability to be vaccinated
  • Essential medical services and treatment
  • Sincere religious beliefs
  • Emergency and urgent travel (including for urgent medical reasons)
  • Other travel in the national interest
• For domestic and outbound travel, airlines and railways will administer the process for considering a traveller's medical inability to be vaccinated, essential medical services and treatment, sincere religious belief, and emergency/urgent travel (including for urgent medical reasons).
• Transport Canada will administer exemptions for other domestic and outbound travel in the national interest. Most travellers granted an exemption will also need to have a valid COVID-19 molecular test, taken no more than 72 hours before boarding a regulated flight or train.
• As of January 15, 2022, the Government of Canada will prohibit entry into Canada for most unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers. Individuals in these categories, who currently benefit from entry exemptions, will no longer be allowed into Canada unless they are fully vaccinated with the full series of a vaccine—or combination of vaccines— accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada and meet other entry criteria. These include:
  • Individuals travelling to reunite with family (unless they are under 18 years of age);
  • Professional athletes and their support staff, and amateur athletes;
  • International students (18 years of age and over);
  • Individuals with a valid work permit, including temporary foreign workers outside of agricultural and food processing; and
  • Most essential service providers (including truck drivers, emergency service providers and marine researchers).
• These unvaccinated travellers can continue to enter the country if unvaccinated until January 14, 2022, as well as take a connecting flight to their final destination that is scheduled to depart within 24 hours of the departure time of their flight to enter Canada; However, if they remain unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be allowed to take a plane or train beyond their original connection, except to depart Canada before February 28, 2022.
• On January 15, 2022, very few exemptions will remain. Examples include:
  • agricultural and food processing workers;
  • foreign marine crew members;
  • those entering on compassionate grounds;
  • new permanent residents;
  • newly resettled refugees;
  • children under the age of 18 who are currently exempt from the travel restrictions, including international students who are studying at a designated learning institution that has a COVID-19 readiness plan; those travelling with a parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian who is either fully vaccinated, or a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada or person registered under the Indian Act; and those travelling to reunite with immediate or extended Canadian family members in Canada; and
  • national interest exemptions.
• Effective November 30, the Government of Canada will expand its list of accepted vaccines for the purposes of entry into Canada and exemption from some testing and quarantine requirements. The list will include Sinopharm, Sinovac, and Covaxin, matching the World Health Organization Emergency Use Listing.
• To be considered fully vaccinated, a traveller must have received the full series of a vaccine — or combination of vaccines — accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada.
• Travellers can receive their vaccine in any country, and must provide documentation in electronic format using the free ArriveCAN app or web portal in English, French, or with a certified translation.
• Effective November 30, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals with a right of entry to Canada, who depart and re-enter Canada within 72 hours of leaving Canada are exempt from providing a pre-entry COVID-19 molecular test result on their return to Canada. This exemption applies when entering by land or air.
• Transport Canada will oversee compliance by means of inspections and enforcement tools—including Administrative Monetary Penalties—using oversight systems in place for each mode.
• For those who falsify information or otherwise fail to comply, there will be serious consequences. For example:
  • Railway companies could be subjected to compliance actions up to $250,000 per violation, per day, under the Railway Safety Act
  • In the air sector, individuals—either travellers or employees—could be fined up to $5,000 per violation under the Aeronautics Act, and operators could be fined up to $25,000 per violation
  • In the marine sector, employees and travellers could be fined for being non-compliant with the obligation to provide proof of vaccination up to $250,000 per violation, per day, and operators could be fined up to $250,000 per violation, per day, for non-compliance to the Interim Order made pursuant to the Canada Shipping Act, 2001

Organization Summary

• These Supplementary Estimates (B) are strictly comprised of urgent funding requirements. All other items, which have been deemed non-urgent, will be sought through Supplementary Estimates (C). These Supplementary Estimates (B) are presenting a total increase of $202.3 million, which is comprised of $192.5 million and $9.8 million in voted and statutory appropriations respectively
• The total budgetary authorities to date for 2021-22, including these Supplementary Estimates (B) will be $4.8 billion.

Explanation of Requirements 2021–22 – By Vote and Key Initiatives

The net increase (excluding Statutory) of $192.5 million is primarily comprised of:

• Funding to implement Canada's new marine conservation targets - $96.3 million.
• Funding to conserve Canada's land and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature - $42.2 million.
• Funding for the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund and Quebec Fisheries Fund - $19.5 million.

More details are provided in the following table.

Funding to implement Canada's new marine conservation targets

Funding to conserve Canada's land and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature

Funding for for the Quebec Fisheries Fund and the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund

Funding for the Indigenous Habitat Participation Program

Funding to prevent and mitigate the impacts of ghost gear on aquatic species at risk

Funding to strengthen environmental protections and address concerns raised by Indigenous groups regarding the Trans Mountain Expansion Project

Funding to advance reconciliation on Indigenous rights and fisheries issues

Funding to renew and advance clean technology-enabling measures

Funding for the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative

Funding for the Pacific Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative

Funding for the Polar Icebreaker Project to advance definition work at Vancouver Shipyards

Explanation of Requirements 2021–2022 – Transfers

Issue

The 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) are seeking a total increase of $202.3 million to Fisheries and Oceans Canada's authorities.

Response

• These Supplementary Estimates are the second of three planned supplementary exercises for 2021-22. They also represent the first opportunity to seek Parliamentary approval for supplemental funding following September's 44th general election.
• The $202.3 million being presented as part of these Supplementary Estimates consists of $192.5 million in voted appropriations and $9.8 million in statutory appropriations.
• Voted appropriations of $192.5 million are primarily for the implementation of: Canada's new marine conservation targets; Canada's Enhanced Nature Legacy initiative, led by Environment and Climate Change Canada, with appropriations for Fisheries and Oceans Canada to conserve and protect aquatic species at risk and advance Indigenous reconciliation; and, the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund and the Quebec Fisheries Fund.
• Statutory appropriations of $9.8 million reflect updates to the Department's employee benefit plans.

Background

• Supplementary Estimates reflect increases to our spending levels, over and above what is approved in the Main Estimates.
• These Estimates represent the first opportunity to seek Parliamentary approval for supplemental funding since the first Supplementary Estimates exercise in June.
• These Supplementary Estimates (B) are strictly comprised of urgent funding requirements.
• These Supplementary Estimates (B) present a total increase of $202.3 million, which is comprised of $192.5 million and $9.8 million in voted and statutory appropriations respectively.
• The $192.5 million increase in voted authorities is mainly attributed to:
  • funding to implement Canada's new marine conservation targets ($96.3 million);
  • funding to support the protection of Canada's biodiversity and the recovery of aquatic species at risk and advance Indigenous reconciliation ($42.2 million); and,
  • funding for the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund and Quebec Fisheries Fund ($19.5 million).
• In addition to those main increases, these Supplementary Estimates include another ten items valued at $34.5 million for other initiatives and technical adjustments, such as transfers to other government departments.

Issue

Significant Government investments have been made in renewing the Canadian Coast Guard Fleet.

Response

• Since 2019, the Government has announced significant investments into fleet renewal, including up to 16 multi-purpose vessels, two Arctic and offshore patrol ships, up to six program icebreakers, and two Polar icebreakers.
• Additionally, in 2019, Canada announced the expansion of the National Shipbuilding Strategy, with the addition of a third large Canadian shipyard. This will enhance domestic shipbuilding capacity and allow the Canadian Coast Guard to renew its icebreaking fleet in a more timely manner, and supporting continued service delivery.
• Interim measures, such as the acquisition of four icebreakers and investing in vessel life extension work, have also been put in place to ensure that the Canadian Coast Guard can continue delivering essential services for Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

Background

• Renewal of the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) fleet is underway. Funded replacement plans are currently in place for the large vessel fleet, including:
  • three offshore fisheries science vessels, which have all been delivered;
  • one offshore oceanographic science vessel (OOSV);
  • two Polar icebreakers;
  • up to 16 multi-purpose vessels (MPV);
  • two Arctic and offshore patrol ships (Coast Guard variants of ships currently in construction for the Department of National Defence); and
  • up to six program icebreakers.
• The National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) is delivering ships for the CCG. The first Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel, CCGS Sir John Franklin, was delivered by Vancouver Shipyards on June 27, 2019. The second ship, CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier, was delivered on November 29, 2019 and the third and final ship, CCGS John Cabot, was delivered on October 9, 2020.
• Construction work is currently underway on the OOSV following cut steel in March 2021. Ancillary contract work is ongoing on the MPV project at Vancouver Shipyards (VSY) following the August 2020 contract award. Additionally, ancillary contract work has commenced on Polar-VSY to finalize the design and prepare for construction engineering.
• CCG is also renewing its small fleet. Twenty-one new small vessels have already been delivered, including two new channel survey and sounding vessels and ten new search and rescue lifeboats that have joined the fleet in the past few years. An additional ten search and rescue lifeboats will be constructed at Hike Metal Products, in Wheatley, Ontario and Chantier Naval Forillon, in Gaspé, Quebec and design work is ongoing on a new near-shore fishery research vessel.
• CCG has also completed the renewal of its helicopter fleet with delivery of sixteen new light-lift helicopters and seven new medium-lift helicopters. CCG just recently acquired the sixteenth light helicopter in September 2021.
• CCG is putting in place interim measures and investing in vessel life extension work to ensure continued delivery of critical services and minimize impact on our programs until new ships are delivered. This includes:
  • a comprehensive Vessel Life Extension Program to maintain the current fleet operational as new ships are being built;
  • the acquisition of three interim icebreakers - the first, CCGS Captain Molly Kool, came into service December 2018. The second, CCGS Jean Goodwill, joined the CCG fleet in late 2020. Delivery of the third ship, CCGS Vincent Massey, is expected in 2022; and,
  • the contract for the light icebreaker was awarded to Atlantic Towing Ltd. on September 22, 2021. The icebreaker began transit in October and is expected to arrive in Canada in December 2021.

Announcements

• On May 22nd, 2019, the Prime Minister announced a renewal of the CCG fleet with up to 18 new large ships built in Canadian shipyards, helping the CCG continue to deliver its important services, and creating good, middle class jobs across the country.
  • Total funding for the 18 large ships is $15.7 billion, which represents early estimates of project budgets including construction, logistics and support, contingency, project management and infrastructure costs. The costs of each ship class will be announced following contract negotiations.
  • Irving Shipbuilding will build two non-combat Arctic and offshore patrol ships, which will be adapted for the Coast Guard to perform a range of critical mission, including Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organizational patrols.
  • Vancouver Shipyards will build up to 16 multi-purpose vessels to support a variety of missions, including light icebreaking, aids to navigation, environmental response, and offshore search and rescue.
  • At the time, 16 multi-purpose vessels were expected to replace the Polar icebreaker in Vancouver Shipyards' program of work, as the Government explored options to ensure the efficient delivery of the Polar icebreaker.
• On August 2, 2019, the Government of Canada announced that six new program icebreakers would be constructed for the CCG.
  • The total value of the investment was not announced to ensure value for money is achieved in the contracting process.
  • The Government intends to add a third strategic partner for large ship construction under the NSS to build the six program icebreakers. This additional shipbuilding capacity is needed to meet CCG's urgent requirements for replacements for its aging medium and heavy icebreakers.
  • In December 2019, it was announced that Chantier Davie had pre-qualified to become the third shipyard.
  • The request for proposal was released to Chantier Davie in late July 2020 and concluded in July 2021. Evaluation work is still ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2021.
• The Government of Canada will also proceed through a competitive process with the design of a new class of smaller ships, the new mid-shore multi-mission ship.
• On May 6, 2021, Canada announced the procurement of two Polar icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard. One will be built at Vancouver Shipyards and the other is expected to be constructed at Chantier Davie, assuming it qualifies to become the third shipyard under the NSS.

Background

• Several court decisions have found that certain Indigenous groups have the right to fish for food, social and ceremonial (FSC) purposes – essentially, the right to fish to meet the internal needs of their communities.
• Following those decisions, DFO established a policy to provide FSC access to Indigenous groups across the country, this includes both Section 35 rights holders as well as other Indigenous organizations, such as native councils.
• FSC licences are developed following consultations with affected Indigenous groups and conditions of the licence are based on specific considerations present within each Indigenous community.
• Once a communal licence is issued to a community, individual Indigenous harvesters are designated by their communities to access the FSC fishery, as specified under the Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations.
• The Department's position has been that FSC catches cannot be sold, but they can take place outside the established commercial fishing seasons.
• DFO will continue to conduct monitoring, control and surveillance activities, with the objective of ensuring access to orderly, safe, and sustainable fisheries in support of the Department's management objectives.

Issue

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) continues to work with Treaty Nations to further implement their right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood. Some First Nations have undertaken unauthorized fishing in pursuit of a moderate livelihood outside existing fishing seasons, creating tensions in coastal communities and drawing media attention.

Response

• Conservation is paramount to our government and we must work together to ensure the protection and sustainability of our fisheries.
• The Government of Canada is committed to advancing reconciliation and renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.
• The Supreme Court of Canada recognized a treaty right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood for 35 Mi'kmaq, Wolastoqey, and Peskotomuhkati Treaty Nations across the Maritimes and the Gaspé region of Quebec.
• Since 1999, the Government has taken steps to implement this right, including through substantial program investments—initially through the Marshall Response Initiative and later through the ongoing Atlantic Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative—as well as through the nation-to-nation negotiation of longer-term rights reconciliation agreements and introducing shorter-term, more flexible moderate livelihood fishing plans.
• In 2021, the Department signed one Rights Reconciliation Agreement with a community in Quebec and also reached interim understandings with four Nova Scotia First Nations to operationalize their fishing plans to fish and sell lobster in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.
• This is in addition to two agreements achieved in 2019 with two communities in New Brunswick and one community in Quebec.
• The Government believes it is possible to have a fishery that is safe, orderly, and sustainable, and that also upholds and implements treaty rights, guided by conservation and rebuilding of stocks.

Background

• Over the past 21 years, DFO has invested over $550 million in fishing licences, vessels, gear, and training which has helped to increase Indigenous participation in commercial fisheries and contribute to the pursuit of a moderate livelihood right. These investments have resulted in meaningful economic benefits which continue to increase year over year. For example, annual landed value among Treaty Nations has increased from $3 million in 1999 to over $140 million in 2018. Additionally, over $50 million of yearly revenue is now generated through fisheries-related businesses (e.g., processing, aquaculture) owned and operated by Atlantic First Nations.
• The Department is currently negotiating rights reconciliation agreements (RRA) with some of the 34 Treaty Nations, with the objective of addressing and recognizing their historic treaty right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood (affirmed by the Supreme Court of Canada Marshall decisions of 1999).
• In March 2021, the Government reiterated its commitment that access to commercial fisheries for the pursuit of a moderate livelihood will be through voluntary licence relinquishment (i.e. transferring access/licence through the open market by a willing buyer-willing seller approach).
• Three RRAs with four Treaty Nations have been signed: the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation (Quebec), the communities of Elsipogtog and Esgenoôpetitj (Mi'kmaq of New Brunswick), and the Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government (Quebec). These communities represent 25 per cent of the population of the 35 First Nations that hold the treaty right.
• Some First Nations recently started fishing outside the commercial fishing season, citing their right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.
• On March 3, 2021, the then Minister announced a new path forward, putting in place an interim approach for interested First Nations to undertake moderate livelihood fishing that would take place during the regular commercial seasons via Moderate Livelihood Fishing Plans.
• In June 2021, an understanding was reached to see Potlotek First Nation members fishing lobster for a moderate livelihood and selling their catch for the spring 2021 fishing season. DFO issued a licence to authorize fishing during the established commercial season. A similar understanding was reached with Annapolis Valley and Bear River First Nations in October 2021, with Acadia First Nation joining in November.
• The Department continues to have regular and frequent meetings at various levels with fishing industry stakeholders to answer questions about rights-based fishing and to provide industry an opportunity to share its views.
• In the last Parliament, the House Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans undertook a study on the implementation of treaty fishing rights to support a moderate livelihood. A report with 40 recommendations was presented to the House in May 2021 before the Committee was dissolved for the federal election.

Issue

The protection and recovery of wild Pacific salmon populations is a priority for our government, especially given the complex challenges facing the species. These include climate change, pollutants and changes in land and water use which have caused widespread declines in salmon productivity.

Response

• Supported by the $647.1 million investment over five years for the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative, we are focused on delivering the comprehensive, long-term approach required to protect and restore salmon habitat and rebuild populations.
• Collaboration with our partners will be critical to our success. Our work with First Nations, the Province of British Columbia, and other partners to respond to the Big Bar landslide exemplifies the type of collaboration required. We successfully implemented fish passage systems, helping to secure the future of many important salmon populations.
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada recognizes that recreational fisheries represent a significant social and economic value to British Columbia, especially the Chinook salmon fishery; and as part of the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative, the Department will be working with the recreational and other sectors on plans to modernize and stabilize these salmon fisheries.
• Fisheries management decisions are based on the best available science, and are taken in consultation with stakeholders and Indigenous peoples, and consider all options to increase selectivity and enhance sustainability.
• Studies are ongoing to understand the many stressors affecting salmon including the role seals and other marine species play in sustaining a healthy and productive aquatic ecosystem.
• Our government is committed to the implementation of sustainable fisheries management practices that protect our aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity, including the conservation of salmon populations.

Background

• Declining productivity and returns of salmon has been an issue of increasing concern for many years in the Pacific Region, and efforts to recover stocks through reduced harvest have not resulted in recovery.
• Restoring Pacific salmon populations requires a multifaceted approach that includes strengthened governance (involving federal, provincial/territorial, municipal and Indigenous), protection and restoration of fish habitat, stewardship to address land and water use issues, carefully managed hatchery production, and transformation of harvest management approaches across commercial, recreational and indigenous fisheries.
• In recent years poor returns of Chinook and Sockeye salmon have prompted implementation of significant harvest constraints with implications for First Nations as well as commercial and recreation sectors.
• Of note, more than 200 First Nations in the Pacific Region rely on salmon as a key food source.
• Recreational salmon fisheries represent a significant economic value to British Columbia. Contributions of commercial salmon fisheries to the west coast economy have declined significantly but are still of great importance to coastal communities.
• Commercial fishing opportunities have been particularly poor, causing many in the Province's fishing industry to ask for emergency relief. In 2021, the Department announced long-term salmon closures to be implemented as part of the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI).
• DFO programs that provide some opportunities for harvesters to exit the industry include licence and quota relinquishment processes through the Pacific Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative and the Allocation Transfer Program and the commercial salmon licence retirement program recently announced under Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative.
• In June of 2021 the PSSI was announced, providing $647.1 million over five years, with $98.9 million in remaining authorization to support recovery of Pacific salmon stocks, and based on the four pillars: 1) Conservation and Stewardship; 2) Enhanced hatchery production; 3) Harvest transformation, and 4) Integrated management and collaboration.
• This funding is in addition to $200.1 million provided for construction of a fishway to mitigate impacts of landslide near Big Bar Creek, B.C. in a remote area of the Fraser River, where efforts continue on developing a long-term solution promptly to help vulnerable, early-migrating salmon stocks reach their spawning grounds.
• Southern BC chinook stocks were significantly impacted by this landslide. 21 of the 28 southern B.C. Chinook runs have been designated as endangered, threatened, or of special concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.
• Commercial, recreational, and Indigenous fisheries management measures involving significant harvest reduction for Chinook in recent years were developed following consultation with Indigenous groups, recreational and commercial fishing organizations and environmental organizations. These measures are one component of a larger strategy for sustainability of at-risk Pacific salmon populations.
• The Department continues to work with First Nations and others to identify sustainable salmon fishing opportunities.

Supplementary

The Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) have initiated a judicial review application of this decision in the Federal Court.

Therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on this question while the matter is before the Court.

Background

• On November 9, 2020, Clearwater announced the sale of the company to seven Atlantic Mi'kmaq First Nations and Premium Brands Holdings Corporation, with each owning 50 per cent of Clearwater. The sale was completed on January 25, 2021, after additional independent reviews by the Competition Bureau of Canada as well as the Nova Scotia courts.
• On January 26, 2021, a formal request was sent to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) by Clearwater to reissue Clearwater's midshore and offshore Canadian fishing licences in the name of the new owners, the Mi'kmaq coalition. The Mi'kmaq coalition formed the First Nations Coalition Quota Limited Partnership (FNC Quota) for the purpose of holding the acquired licences.
• The Clearwater sale is the result of a willing buyer/willing seller transaction, and represents, as expressed by Chief Terry Paul, "the single largest investment in the seafood industry by any Indigenous group in Canada."
• The Mi'kmaq First Nations have borrowed from the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA) in order to finance the purchase of the company. Clearwater and FNC Quota have indicated that the inclusion of all Clearwater licences and associated allocations was a key factor in the deal and fundamental to the ability for FNC Quota to have access to capital through FNFA.
• The Clearwater sale was also seen by Nunavut interests, including the Government of Nunavut as a major opportunity to increase their access to fisheries in waters adjacent to Nunavut. To that effect, Nunavut interests have written to the Minister on several occasions, requesting that Clearwater licences and allocations for fisheries in the north be provided to them. Some licences held by Clearwater have associated quota that is fishable in areas directly outside the Nunavut Settlement Area or partly within Zone I of the Nunavut Agreement.
• As any licence re-issuance request that entails a transfer of commercial fisheries access in Zone I (and Zone II) triggers section 15.3.7 of the Agreement, a detailed review of this matter has been conducted by the Department to take into account all relevant considerations, including a special consideration to the principles of adjacency and the economic dependence of Nunavut communities and residents on marine resources, and the views expressed by stakeholders.
• Following a six months in-depth analysis of this re-issuance request against all criteria set out in licensing policy, Integrated Fisheries Management Plans, and the administrative guidelines that govern the affected fisheries, as well as the review of all relevant land claims agreements, the request was approved by the Minister on July 16, 2021, and Clearwater, FNC Quota and Nunavut interests notified in writing on July 30, 2021 of the decision.
• Following the receipt of the notification, the NTI and the QIA have applied for judicial review in the Federal Court seeking an order setting aside the Minister's July 16, 2021, decision to approve the re-issuance of offshore and midshore licences and associated allocations from Clearwater to FNC Quota.

Background

• On April 30, 2021, Canada received a letter from the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (UN CERD) sharing concerns raised with the Committee regarding allegations of violence against Mi'kmaq fishers in Nova Scotia that occurred in September to December 2020.
• This is the fourth letter Canada had received since 2018 from UN CERD. The Department of Canadian Heritage (PCH) is the lead on all UN CERD responses.
• A number of federal departments collaborated on the draft response, including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, Public Safety and the Department of Justice. PCH also consulted with the Province of Nova Scotia.
• The response was initially requested by July 14, 2021. However, PCH requested an extension through Global Affairs Canada due to the complexity of coordinating Canada's response. The revised targeted deadline was September 2, 2021, but was delayed due to the election.
• PCH confirmed that all federal departments have provided input and approved the final draft, but approval of from the Province of Nova Scotia is outstanding. PCH will send the response in both official languages once all signatories have confirmed their approval of the consolidated final draft.
• The response letter provides background on the Peace and Friendship treaties of 1760 and 1761, and the Marshall decisions, including the federal response strategy and fulfilling the duty to consult. More broadly, the letter also outlines Canada's attempt to combat racist hate speech and incitement to violence through effective investigations of cases of racist hate crimes, including measures to facilitate reporting by the victims, and prosecute and sanction perpetrators.
• In response to specific concerns raised by the UN CERD, the letter addresses the events of October 2020 in Nova Scotia, including the measures taken to investigate alleged acts of racist hate speech, violence and incitement to violence, and the destruction of property by private actors against Mi'kmaw Indigenous peoples. Canada also describes the measures taken to respect, protect and guarantee Mi'kmaw peoples' rights to fishing activities and to be consulted.

Organization Summary

Explanation of requirements 2021-22 — By Vote and Key Initiatives

The net increase of $135.6 million is comprised of:

• $102.4 million to conserve Canada's land and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature (Budget 2021);
• $8.4 million to support climate change policy capacity (Budget 2021);
• $6.4 million for a climate change advertising campaign;
• $5.9 million for the Net-Zero Advisory Body and Net-Zero Challenge;
• $3.0 million to address imminent threats to wood bison herds;
• $2.1 million to implement Wood Buffalo National Park Heritage Site Action Plan;
• $1.8 million to implement Canada's new marine conservation targets (Budget 2021);
• $5.6 million for contributions to employee benefit plans.

More details are provided in the following table.

Environment and Climate Change Canada - Supplementary Estimates (B) Items

Explanation of Requirements 2021-2022 — Transfers

ECCC did not request any transfers through Supplementary Estimates (B).

Issue

Environment and Climate Change Canada's submission amounts to a net increase of $135.6 million, bringing the Department's total authorities to $2.0 billion. This update includes:

Response

• $105.2 million to conserve Canada's lands and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature;
  • To implement the Enhanced Nature Legacy; and to respond to the biodiversity crisis, and pressures for sustainable recovery and well-being of Canadians.
• $3.2 million to address imminent threats to Wood Bison;
• $2.4 million to Implement the Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site Action Plan;
• $2.1 million for Canada's New Marine Conservation Targets;
  • To meet Canada's new marine conservation target of protecting 25 per cent of Canada's oceans by 2025.
• $16.3 million to support climate change policy capacity ($9.9 million) and funding for a climate change advertising campaign ($6.4 million);
  • Sustain and strengthen the Department's domestic climate change policy capacity to drive whole-of-government implementation of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan, international climate policy capacity to advance Canada's international priorities on environment and climate; and a campaign to inform Canadians.
• $6.4 million to support the Net-Zero Advisory Body and Net-Zero Challenge;
  • To support companies in developing plans to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Background

For 2021-22, three Supplementary Estimates are planned. Supplementary Estimates (A) were tabled in May and Royal Assent on the Appropriation Act was granted in June.

Supplementary Estimates (B) began in late Summer, with tabling expected in the House of Commons once the details are available on the parliamentary schedule.

Supplementary Estimates (C) began in late Fall, with tabling expected in February 2022.

The 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) represent the second supply process of 2021-22 for which ECCC is invited to update its Main Estimates to deliver on Programs that are important to Canadians.

Issue

Through supplementary estimates B, ECCC is seeking to access a portion of $60.3 million of new funding provided in Budget 2021 over five years, starting in 2021-2022, to drive whole-of-government implementation of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan and lead government-wide efforts to develop further climate actions, to advance Canada's international priorities on environment and climate and to launch an advertising campaign. These funds will also help support the department in delivering on announcements made during 26th Conference of Parties (COP26).

Response

• Increasing action on climate change is key to the Government of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan to promote clean and sustainable economic growth.
• These funds will enable whole of government coordination on implementing current measures, co-ordination with provincial, territorial and Indigenous stakeholders, further policy development, planning and reporting to reach Canada's emissions reductions targets ($26 million).
• These funds will also support advancing Canada's environment and climate change interests in multilateral fora, strengthening strategic bilateral relationships, negotiating and implementing environment provisions in free trade agreements, and driving international clean energy transition ($28 million).
• At COP26, Canada announced a number of commitments and concrete actions at home and abroad to enhance climate action and support developing countries. These new funds will help to support the department in delivering on these commitments.
• The next five years will be a critical period to implement climate action and these funds will provide resources needed for ECCC to facilitate climate action domestically and abroad.

Background

• A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, Canada's strengthened climate plan (SCP), was published in December 2020 and Budget 2021 allocated the funds for a number of actions under the SCP, including this funding of $60.3 million.
• The funding for domestic climate change capacity, management, and governance ($25.8 million over five years with up to 32 personnel) enables ECCC to provide whole-of-government coordination on continued implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework, SCP, and Budget 2021 climate action measures, as well as support to deliver on Canada's ambitious climate change goals and legal obligations under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act. It is important to note that 1/3 of these resources are for new hires in light of incremental workload, whereas 2/3 are to address shortfall for personnel currently on strength that were previously funded through departmental reallocation of temporary funds.
• This cannot be accomplished without extensive and focused governance and horizontal management of Government of Canada's actions. With this funding, officials will continue to work on climate change policy development and coordination, federal-provincial-territorial engagement and Indigenous engagement, and whole-of-government oversight, tracking and reporting on implementation of climate plan measures.
• The funding for international climate policy capacity ($28 million of new funding with up to 28 personnel) provides ECCC with additional capacity to address structural program integrity challenges and multiyear funding pressures in order to deliver on the increased scale and scope of Canada's international priorities on environment and climate change.
• Canada announced a number of commitments and concrete actions at COP26 including capping and reducing pollution from the oil and gas sector; ending exports of thermal coal no later than 2030; joining the Global Methane Pledge to reduce total methane emissions by at least 30 percent by 2030; committing up to $1 billion of Canada's international climate finance to help developing countries transition from coal-fired electricity to clean power; and several other commitments to enhance adaptation and resilience, and support nature. These funds will help support the Department in delivering on these commitments.
• Officials will continue to work on supporting international engagement on clean energy transition and directing funding for five years for Canada's contribution to the Powering Past Coal Alliance Secretariat; implementing Free Trade Agreements, including advancing efforts to increase and diversify trade and investment; strengthening strategic bilateral relationships; and advancing Canada's environment and climate change interests in multilateral fora to increase Canada's visibility and presence internationally and advance Canadian interests on issues including biodiversity and nature-based solutions.
• Funding for the "Our Healthy Environment and Economy" climate change and environment advertising campaign ($6.4 million in new funding for 2021-22 with up to 2 personnel) will inform Canadians of existing efforts that are underway in the fight against climate change while promoting the economic benefits of such change.

Issue

The Net-Zero Advisory Body is a group of experts with a mandate to provide independent advice to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change with respect to achieving Canada's target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Response

• The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (CNZEAA) established the Net-Zero Advisory Body as a statutory group of experts.
• The Net-Zero Advisory Body was granted funding of $23.5M over 5 years and $2.7M ongoing in new and existing departmental resources. This will support the Advisory Body's operations, including engagement with, stakeholders, and other partners.
• This funding will allow the Net-Zero Advisory Body to fulfil its mandate to provide independent advice to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change with respect to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, including advice related to:
  • greenhouse gas emissions targets;
  • greenhouse gas emissions reduction plans, and;
  • any matter referred to it by the Minister.
• As an example, through a recent letter, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister of Natural Resources requested that the Net-Zero Advisory Body provide independent advice to inform Canada's emissions reduction plan for 2030, including on key guiding principles to help set quantitative emission reduction targets for the oil and gas sector.
• The advisory body's mandate also includes conducting engagement activities.
• As reported through its website (nzab2050.ca), the Net-Zero Advisory Body has met with the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and of Natural Resources, as well as a variety of stakeholders, and federal officials on key topics related to its mandate.
• The Department looks forward to receiving the advice of the Net-Zero Advisory Body, which is expected to be grounded in significant engagement with Canadians. The Advisory Body's first annual report with independent advice is expected in 2022.

Background

On February 25, 2021, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change first launched the Net-Zero Advisory Body, which was then enshrined in law under the CNZEAA on June 29, 2021.

A funding decision in May 2021 approved access new resources to support the NZAB and its engagement activities in the amount of $13.3 million over 5 years, starting in 2021-22, and $1.1 million ongoing in 2026-27 and beyond. This is in addition to $10.2 million over 5 years, starting in 2021-22 and $1.6 million ongoing to be sourced from existing reference levels.

The Governor in Council appoints the members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body on the recommendation of the Minister and fixes their remuneration. The Net-Zero Advisory Body is composed of no more than 15 members, who are appointed on a part-time basis for a renewable term of up to three years. Its members bring together diverse expertise and experiences from across the country. The Minister intends to recommend that the 11 current members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body be appointed by the Governor in Council.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body is independent and apolitical. Members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body represent themselves as individuals and not by the organizations that they are employed by or affiliated with.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body's independent advice will be structured along specific lines of inquiry, which will be set at regular intervals in consultation with the Minister.

When providing its advice and preparing its report, the Net-Zero Advisory Body as a whole will provide the knowledge and expertise in areas such as climate change science (e.g., environmental, ecological, and socio-economic impacts); Indigenous knowledge; relevant physical and social sciences (e.g., economic analysis and forecasting); climate change policy at the national, subnational, and international level; energy supply; and demand and relevant technologies.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body must submit an annual report to the Minister with respect to its independent advice and activities, including setting out the results of its engagement activities.

Issue

Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies

Response

• Inefficient fossil fuel subsidies slow down our transition to a net zero carbon economy.
• Along with our G20 partners, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. We have now accelerated the deadline for this important work from 2025 to 2023.
• We have already phased-out or rationalized eight tax preferences and we are continuing to review measures in our tax system. We have also committed to eliminating flow through shares for oil, gas and coal projects. Work is continuing on reviewing additional tax and non-tax measures.
• Canada has committed to undertake a peer review through the G20 process. The peer review process will increase transparency on Canada's actions to fulfill the G20 commitment to climate action.

Background

• In 2009, G20 Leaders committed to "rationalize and phase out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption", while noting that "inefficient fossil fuel subsidies encourage wasteful consumption, reduce our energy security, impede investment in clean energy sources and undermine efforts to deal with the threat of climate change." At the North American Leaders' Summit in June 2016, Canada, the United States and Mexico committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 and called on other members of the G20 to do the same. Most recently, in June 2021, G7 Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025, and called on all countries to join them. The 2021 Liberal Platform committed to "accelerate our G20 commitment to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies from 2025 to 2023."
• As with other G20 commitments, this commitment applies only at the federal level.
• In 2015, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change were tasked with fulfilling Canada's G20 commitment. Finance Canada is leading the work with respect to tax measures; Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is coordinating a review of federal non-tax measures.
• In June 2018, it was announced that Canada and Argentina would be partnering to perform peer reviews to ensure both countries are on track to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. The peer review requires Canada to produce a self-review report, which will be reviewed by an international review panel. Finance Canada is leading the peer review process. As is convention under the G20 peer review process, Canada's self-review report, as well as a report from the international review panel, will be made public once the peer review process is complete.
• In April 2019, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD) published its performance audit of the work on the review of federal non-tax measures conducted by ECCC. In March 2019, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change launched a public consultation on the Government's draft framework to review non-tax measures. The consultation invited comments from all Canadians with an interest in Canada's climate change commitments and policies. At the same time, targeted consultations with key stakeholders were undertaken. The results of the public and targeted consultation will inform Canada's self-review report as a part of the peer review with Argentina, which will be made public.

Issue

The Net-Zero Advisory Body is a group of experts with a mandate to provide independent advice to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change with respect to achieving Canada's target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Response

• The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (CNZEAA) established the Net-Zero Advisory Body as a statutory group of experts.
• The Net-Zero Advisory Body was granted funding of $23.5M over 5 years and $2.7M ongoing in new and existing departmental resources. This will support the Advisory Body's operations, including engagement with, stakeholders, and other partners.
• This funding will allow the Net-Zero Advisory Body to fulfil its mandate to provide independent advice to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change with respect to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, including advice related to:
  • greenhouse gas emissions targets;
  • greenhouse gas emissions reduction plans, and;
  • any matter referred to it by the Minister.
• As an example, through a recent letter, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister of Natural Resources requested that the Net-Zero Advisory Body provide independent advice to inform Canada's emissions reduction plan for 2030, including on key guiding principles to help set quantitative emission reduction targets for the oil and gas sector.
• The advisory body's mandate also includes conducting engagement activities.
• As reported through its website (nzab2050.ca), the Net-Zero Advisory Body has met with the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and of Natural Resources, as well as a variety of stakeholders, and federal officials on key topics related to its mandate.
• The Department looks forward to receiving the advice of the Net-Zero Advisory Body, which is expected to be grounded in significant engagement with Canadians. The Advisory Body's first annual report with independent advice is expected in 2022.

Background

On February 25, 2021, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change first launched the Net-Zero Advisory Body, which was then enshrined in law under the CNZEAA on June 29, 2021.

A funding decision in May 2021 approved access new resources to support the NZAB and its engagement activities in the amount of $13.3 million over 5 years, starting in 2021-22, and $1.1 million ongoing in 2026-27 and beyond. This is in addition to $10.2 million over 5 years, starting in 2021-22 and $1.6 million ongoing to be sourced from existing reference levels.

The Governor in Council appoints the members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body on the recommendation of the Minister and fixes their remuneration. The Net-Zero Advisory Body is composed of no more than 15 members, who are appointed on a part-time basis for a renewable term of up to three years. Its members bring together diverse expertise and experiences from across the country. The Minister intends to recommend that the 11 current members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body be appointed by the Governor in Council.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body is independent and apolitical. Members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body represent themselves as individuals and not by the organizations that they are employed by or affiliated with.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body's independent advice will be structured along specific lines of inquiry, which will be set at regular intervals in consultation with the Minister.

When providing its advice and preparing its report, the Net-Zero Advisory Body as a whole will provide the knowledge and expertise in areas such as climate change science (e.g., environmental, ecological, and socio-economic impacts); Indigenous knowledge; relevant physical and social sciences (e.g., economic analysis and forecasting); climate change policy at the national, subnational, and international level; energy supply; and demand and relevant technologies.

The Net-Zero Advisory Body must submit an annual report to the Minister with respect to its independent advice and activities, including setting out the results of its engagement activities.

Issue

The Government of Canada has committed to capping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil and gas sector.

Response

• As the world shifts to a cleaner and greener economy, Canada will continue to take a leadership role in the fight against climate change.
• Developing Canada's oil and gas resources in cleaner, more sustainable ways is essential to ensure the sector can compete in a net-zero emissions world by 2050.
• Canada is among the world's biggest oil and gas producers, and all Canadians benefit from the sector's contributions to our economy.
• As we move to clean energy alternatives, we need the sector to continue to adapt, which will spur innovation and help create the jobs of the future.
• The Government of Canada has committed to capping the sector's GHG emissions and ensuring that the sector reduces its emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net zero by 2050, with five-year targets to stay on track to achieve this.
• We will ensure that reduction levels are ambitious and achievable and that the oil and gas sector makes a meaningful contribution to meet the nation's climate goals for 2030 and 2050, while taking a people-centered approach to ensure a just transition for workers and their communities.
• The Government has requested independent expert advice from Canada's Net-Zero Advisory Body. The Government will also consult provinces and territories, the oil and gas sector, Indigenous peoples, and stakeholders about the overall approach to achieving this goal.

Background

• Canada's oil and gas sector accounts for 27% of total GHG emissions (2019).
• Canada would be the first major oil-producing country to cap emissions.
• This will build on other actions to reduce emissions from oil and gas including:
  • Reducing oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030. This builds on ourtarget of 40-45% reductions below 2012 level, by 2025.
  • Creating the $750-million Emissions Reduction Fund to help firms take action to reduce methane and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Carbon pricing in place across Canada since 2019 covering large industry, including oil and gas, and finalizing the Clean Fuel Standard regulations.
  • Canada's Strategic Innovation Fund – Net-Zero Accelerator – will provide $8 billion over five years to large emitters (including oil and gas) to speed up decarbonization projects, scale up clean technology and accelerate Canada's industrial transformation across all sectors.
  • Budget 2021 also announced the creation of a new federal tax credit designed to stimulate the deployment of carbon capture and storage in Canada.

Supplementary Estimates

• Supplementary Estimates present information to Parliament on Government of Canada spending requirements not sufficiently developed in time for inclusion in the Main Estimates.
• Due to the number of funding requirements requested by all organizations, a later tabling date and a shortened study period in Parliament, the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) is a directed one, i.e. only items that have been jointly identified as urgent by the Departments and Treasury Board Secretariat are to be included.
• Urgent items are those that meet an anticipated cash pressure for December or address a risk of exceeding voted appropriations. (i.e. grant ceiling).

2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B)

Explanation of Requirements - By Vote and Key Initiatives

• The net increase of $2.1 billion is comprised of:
  • $336.8 million in Vote 1 Operating expenditures mainly for Non-Insured Health Benefits;
  • $.04 million in Vote 5 Capital expenditures for Supportive Care;
  • $1.7 billion in Vote 10 Grants and Contributions, primarily $479 million for Infrastructure, $361.3 million for Child and Family Services (Re-profile), $307.4 million for Income Assistance – Case Management and Pre-Employment Supports, $137 million for Jordan's Principle (Re-profile) and $106.8 million for Elementary and Secondary Education on Reserve;
    • Vote 10 also includes an Internal reallocation of resources from contributions ($6,360,000) to Grants for the Operation Return Home claims settlements
  • $7.8 million in statutory funding for Employee Benefits Plan.

If pressed – Funding for Infrastructure in Indigenous Communities (Budget 2021)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $497.9 million from Budget 2021 to support shovel-ready infrastructure projects for Indigenous communities.
• This important funding will address aging, inadequate and lacking critical infrastructure in Indigenous communities.
• This funding will contribute to the Government's commitment to close the infrastructure gap by 2030.

If pressed – Funding for Child and Family Services

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $361.3 million to support the implementation of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) rulings.
• This funding will ensure that Canada remains in compliance with current CHRT orders by addressing actual claims submitted by communities.
• The Government remains committed to the ongoing provision of culturally appropriate prevention, protection and well-being services for First Nations children and families on reserve.

If pressed – Funding for Non-insured Health Benefits for First Nations and Inuit (Budget 2021 and others)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $363.8 million, of which $332.4 million is from Budget 2021, for non-insured health benefits for First Nations and Inuit.
• This funding is to continue providing supplementary health benefits without interruption or reduced coverage, to provide coverage for the Shingrix vaccine and to increase the co-payment related to the medical air travel costs in Nunavut.
• We are committed to pursuing our ongoing efforts to diminish the substantial health disparities faced by many First Nation and Inuit individuals.

If pressed – Funding for income assistance, case management and pre-employment supports to individuals and families living on reserve (Budget 2021)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $309 million from Budget 2021 to support the ongoing delivery of the Income Assistance Program.
• This funding will support basic needs and increased program demand as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and to continue providing case management and pre-employment supports to individuals and families living on reserve.
• It will ensure that eligible individuals and families living on reserve cover the costs of their daily living expenses and help income assistance clients transition from program dependency towards education or employment opportunities.

If pressed – Funding for the continued implementation of Jordan's Principle

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $148.2 million for the continued implementation of Jordan's Principle.
• The funding will enable Canada to meet its legal obligation to provide First Nations children with access to health, social and education services, supports, and products when they need them.

If pressed – Funding for the core funding refinements of elementary and secondary education (Budget 2021)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $107.9 million from Budget 2021 to refine the elementary and secondary education regional funding formulas in critical areas; provide stable funding for First Nations education programs year to year, and develop and conclude more regional education agreements.
• By working together with partners, First Nations students will receive a high quality and culturally appropriate education that responds to their needs.

If pressed – Funding to improve health outcomes in Indigenous communities (Budget 2021)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $89.1 million from Budget 2021 to improve health outcomes in Indigenous communities.
• This initiative seeks to:
  • stabilize existing environmental public health services on reserve;
  • support First Nations and Inuit to identify, assess and/or adapt to the health impacts of climate change;
  • increase access to and quality of primary care in remote and isolated First Nations communities; and
  • continue efforts toward self-determination and transformation on how health care services are designed and delivered by First Nations communities.

If pressed – Funding for supportive care in Indigenous communities

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $63.7 million for the COVID-19 needs for supportive care services.
• The funding will help address needs and gaps in supportive care facilities and provide additional home care in Indigenous communities, in order to protect elders and other vulnerable community members from COVID-19.
• The funding will also ensure that resource pressures due to the pandemic in supportive care facilities on reserve do not create additional challenges for Indigenous people at risk.

If pressed – Funding to support the implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families and the ongoing reform of the Indigenous Child and Family Services

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $54.5 million to support the implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families and ongoing reform of the Indigenous Child and Family Services.
• The funding is required to meet Canada's commitment to implement the Act, which includes engagement, capacity-building and coordination agreement discussions. It will also provide support to Indigenous groups, communities and peoples as they work within and across their communities to build strong foundations to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services.

If pressed – Funding for the Indigenous Community Support Fund (COVID-19)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $37.3 million to ensure continuity in responding to the significant needs identified by and for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Indigenous urban and off-reserve communities and organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The $37.3 million is being allocated in the 4th round of the Fund, in addition to the $760.7 million that is being flowed in 2021-2022, to continue to respond to emerging events related to COVID-19 variants, vaccine roll-out, and mitigation and response to the pandemic. It will also provide additional available supports for recovery initiatives, food security and mental wellness, and health and emergency management planning.

If pressed – Funding to reimburse First Nations and emergency management service providers for on-reserve response and recovery activities

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $24.7 million to support emergency management recovery projects such as housing repairs and road repairs.
• The re-profile funding will ensure that First Nation communities can complete projects and access the funding they were unable to take advantage of in 2020-21 due to challenges caused by COVID-19.
• This funding will enable Indigenous Services Canada to fulfill its mandate to work with partners to improve emergency management for Indigenous communities.

If pressed – Funding to support Indigenous-led businesses (Budget 2021)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include $15.4 million from Budget 2021 to support Indigenous-led businesses.
• Specifically, the funding is to expand the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, to support Indigenous women entrepreneurs and to support the Indigenous tourism sector.
• The ultimate outcome is that the number of Indigenous-owned and controlled businesses being created or expanded in Canada continues to increase.

If pressed - Funding to continue delivering mental health, cultural and emotional supports to Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and their family members

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $5.9 million to support the continued delivery of mental health counselling and medical transportation assistance to eligible Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program's clients.
• The Department will continue to implement the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program to ensure that former Indian Residential Schools students and their families receive access to the mental health services and cultural supports they need throughout their healing journeys.

If pressed - Funding to continue Canada's legal obligations under the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $5.9 million to support the continued delivery of mental health counselling and medical transportation assistance to eligible Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program's clients.
• The Department will continue to implement the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program to ensure that former Indian Residential Schools students and their families receive access to the mental health services and cultural supports needed throughout their healing journey's.

If pressed - Funding to support Canada's Flood Risk Plan

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $0.8 million for 2021-22 to ensure the needs of First Nations on reserve are considered in the development of flood insurance options for Canadians.
• Indigenous Services Canada previously received funding through this initiative to engage First Nations on reserve and ensure considerations are included in this work. This initiative is co-led with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN).
• The outcome is to ensure the provision of funding to the AFN for the development of an engagement strategy, research and base line data development for elements on reserve, and development of report on status and potential options.

If pressed - Funding to support a safe restart in Indigenous communities (COVID-19)

• Supplementary Estimates (B) include a re-profile of $0.4 million to address various COVID-19 pressures in support of a safe restart in Indigenous communities.
• The communities looking to reopen are supported to undertake necessary retrofits to community infrastructure and health facilities that will allow them to follow public health guidelines to help prevent and/or contain outbreaks and reduce the strain on primary health care resource.
• The funding will ensure Indigenous Services Canada fulfills its commitments with First Nations communities.

Flooding in British Columbia

The atmospheric river that passed through B.C. caused severe flooding, destroyed homes and highways, and led to significant damage throughout the province.

Response

• Our thoughts are with the communities impacted by the recent flooding in British Columbia.
• We continue to work directly with impacted communities and support Indigenous leadership and continued response and recovery efforts.
• A multi-agency support team, including officials from the First Nations Emergency Services Society, the First Nations Health Authority, Indigenous Services Canada and the Province of BC, will be travelling to the communities of Coldwater and Shackan First Nations to directly assess impacts and provide support.
• As the weather pattern evolves this week, we continue to monitor the potential impacts to communities and are working with our partners to ensure effective communications are in place in the event further evacuations are required.
• To provide support and crucial amenities for impacted First Nation members, my department provided an additional $4.4M to the First Nations' Emergency Services Society and $330,000 to the First Nations Leadership Council, and immediate funding is available through the Emergency Management Assistance Program.
• The Government of Canada continues to meet with local and First Nation Governments to ensure timely evacuations.

Background

Issue

In 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) found Canada's FNCFS Program to be discriminatory and ordered Canada to immediately remedy the discrimination.

Response

• The coming into force of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act) on January 1, 2020 marked a historic turning point for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children and families.
• The Act has put in place what Indigenous peoples across this country have been asking of governments for decades: that their rights and jurisdiction over child and family services be recognized and affirmed so that they can decide what is best for their children, their families, and their communities.
• The Act's national guiding principles must be applied by all who provide child and family services to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis families including provinces, territories, and service providers.
• This will ensure that the best interests of the child, cultural continuity, and substantive equality are the guiding principles and priorities in the delivery of services to Indigenous families.
• The government has committed over $615 million over the next four years to support the implementation of the Act.
• This funding will support Indigenous communities and groups as they work towards jurisdictional development and the exercise of jurisdiction, enabling Indigenous governing bodies to be prepared to participate at coordination agreement discussions.
• The implementation of the Act is fundamental to addressing the over-representation of Indigenous children in care. We must continue to work together to end this ongoing crisis impacting Indigenous children, parents and families.

Background

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)'s First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) Program provides funding to support the safety and well-being of First Nation children on reserve. Funding is provided to FNCFS agencies, provinces and the Yukon Territory to support the delivery of prevention and protection services on-reserve. ISC does not deliver the services. These services are provided in accordance with the legislation and standards of the province or territory of residence and in a manner that is reasonably comparable to those available to other provincial residents in similar circumstances, within ISC's Program authorities. Funding under the FNCFS Program is provided according to a prevention-based funding model.

In 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) found Canada's FNCFS Program to be discriminatory and ordered Canada to immediately remedy the discrimination. On February 1, 2018, the Tribunal added items to its previous order, including paying the actual costs of FNCFS agencies in prevention and other areas. The Department is working closely with the parties to the complaint – the Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society, the Chiefs of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski-Nation, the Canadian Human Rights Commission and Amnesty International – to fully implement the various orders of the Tribunal.

On September 6, 2019, the CHRT released an order on compensation. The Tribunal ordered Canada to pay the maximum amount of $40,000 ($20,000 for pain and suffering and $20,000 for willful and reckless conduct) per child and parent or grandparent. On October 4, 2019 the Attorney General of Canada filed a Notice of Application for Judicial Review with the Federal Court.

On November 25, 2020, the CHRT released its final order on the definition of "First Nations child" for the purposes of eligibility under Jordan's Principle, ruling that cases meeting any one of the following four criteria are eligible for consideration under Jordan's Principle:

1. The child is registered or eligible to be registered under the Indian Act, as amended from time to time;
2. The child has one parent/guardian who is registered or eligible to be registered under the Indian Act;
3. The child is recognized by their Nation for the purposes of Jordan's Principle; or
4. The child is ordinarily resident on reserve.

Canada filed a Notice of Application for Judicial Review with the Federal Court. On September 29, 2021, the Federal Court determined that the CHRT's decision on the definition of a First Nations child was reasonable and upheld the orders in their entirety. Canada did not appeal this decision.

On March 17, 2021 the CHRT issued a consent order that ruled that prevention funding be paid directly to First Nations not served by a First Nations Child and Family Services agency.

On August 26, 2021, the CHRT issued a letter containing an interim decision ordering Canada to fund the actual capital costs for FNCFS agencies and First Nations to support the delivery of FNCFS and Jordan's Principle to children on-reserve; fund capital needs assessments for FNCFS agencies and First Nations to support the delivery of FNCFS and Jordan's Principle; and work with partners to fund capital needs assessments for Band Representative services in Ontario. A protective judicial review application of the orders was filed on September 24, 2021. Final reasons were issued by the CHRT on November 16, 2021.

On September 29, 2021, the Federal Court determined that the CHRT's compensation decision of September 2019 was reasonable and upheld the orders in their entirety. A protective appeal of this decision was filed on October 29, 2021 and placed in abeyance until December 31, 2021 to provide the parties with an opportunity to negotiate a settlement.

The CHRT retains jurisdiction and oversight regarding implementation of orders, and may issue further orders with significant legal, policy, and fiscal implications.

In addition to CHRT litigation, a parallel class action has been filed with the Federal Court seeking compensation for a similar class and for the same discrimination, but covers the period from April 1, 1991 to March 1, 2019 (while the compensation order goes back as far as 2007). Counsel for the class action are also participating in the discussions to reach a global resolution.

Issue

Indigenous Services Canada is working in full partnership with First Nation communities to support sustainable First Nations-led approaches to ensure that on-reserve water systems are safe.

Response

• All Canadians should have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water.
• As of June 30, 2021, more than $2.07 billion of targeted funding has been invested to support 751 water and wastewater projects, of which 408 are now complete and 343 are ongoing. These projects will serve 464,000 people in 582 First Nations communities.
• In every community with a long-term drinking water advisory, there is an action plan in place to resolve it.
• Much work remains, but the results are encouraging. First Nations, with the support from Indigenous Services Canada, have lifted 119 long term drinking water advisories to date.
• The Department is reviewing the findings of the Parliamentary Budget Office's Report, which recognizes that we have closed the gap in capital funding for First Nations water and wastewater systems.
• ISC has significantly increased the operations and maintenance funding provided to First Nations by almost four times since 2019-2020. Now, 100% of water and wastewater operations and maintenance costs will be covered based on the funding formula, up from 80%.
• ISC is working with First Nations partners to co-develop a long-term strategy that will chart a path for water and wastewater infrastructure on reserve beyond 2021.
• The strategy will reflect the Government's commitment to ensure sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure on reserve, by focusing on closing infrastructure gap.

Background

On December 1, 2021, the Parliamentary Budget Officer tabled a report on budget sufficiency for water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nations communities, entitled Clean Water for First Nations: Is the Government Spending Enough? This report responds to a request by Independent Senator Renée Dupuis; it analyzes spending on water and wastewater, estimates investment needs, and compares these to actual and planned investments.

Indigenous Services Canada is working in full partnership with First Nation communities, including with First Nations technical advisors and leaders, to support sustainable First Nations-led approaches to ensure that on-reserve water systems are safe. This includes Technical Services Advisory Group in Alberta (TSAG), the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC), the Atlantic Policy Congress, and technical service delivery Hubs pilot projects in Ontario. ISC also works directly with First Nations to assist communities in monitoring drinking water quality in all water systems, which includes providing advice and guidance about drinking water safety and wastewater disposal, and reviewing infrastructure project proposals from a public health perspective.

Budget 2021 committed an additional $1.043 billion over 2 years, starting in 2022-23, to support water and wastewater projects. The funding will enable ISC to continue to support the planning, procurement, construction, and commissioning of water and wastewater minor and major capital projects for both new builds, as well as system repairs and upgrades in First Nations communities. Budget 2021 also announced $125.2 million over four years, beginning in 2022-23, and $31.3 million on-going thereafter to continue to support First Nations communities' reliable access to clean water and help ensure the safe delivery of health and social services on reserve.

As of June 30, 2021, more than $2.07 billion of targeted funding has been invested to support 751 water and wastewater projects, including 408 that are now completed. These projects will serve 464,000 people in 582 First Nations communities.

It should be noted that drinking water advisories are issued to protect the public from drinking water that is potentially unsafe, or confirmed to be unsafe, based on water quality testing. Drinking water advisories are issued by First Nations in their communities and off-reserve by provincial, territorial or municipal governments.

Communities may also choose to issue a drinking water advisory as a precautionary measure, such as when there are emergency repairs in the water distribution system or if a community does not have a trained Water System Operator or Community-Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor in place. Some drinking water advisories are short-term to advise residents of a temporary water quality issue on a specific water system (e.g.: equipment failure).

The government is working closely with First Nations by providing sustainable investments, expanding delivery systems, building capacity of and retaining local water operators, as well as supporting regular monitoring and testing on all drinking water systems to prevent short-term and re-occurring advisories.

Issue

On December 1, 2021, the Parliamentary Budget Officer tabled a report on budget sufficiency for water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nations communities, entitled Clean Water for First Nations: Is the Government Spending Enough?

Response

The Department is reviewing the findings of the report, which recognizes that we have closed the gap in capital funding for First Nations water and wastewater systems.

Indigenous Services Canada has also significantly increased the operations and maintenance funding provided to First Nations by almost four times since 2019-2020. Now, 100% of water and wastewater operations and maintenance costs will be covered based on the funding formula, up from 80%.

If operations and maintenance expenses exceed allocated resources then First Nations may request enhanced funding from the Department.

Indigenous Services Canada is working with First Nations partners to co-develop a long-term strategy that will chart a path for water and wastewater infrastructure on reserve beyond 2021. This strategy will underpin a new approach to service delivery with a focus on transitioning services to First Nations care and control.

The strategy will reflect the Government's commitment to ensuring sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure on reserve over the long term, by focusing on closing the water and wastewater infrastructure gap.

The 2017 Parliamentary Budget Officer report on budget sufficiency for water and wastewater on reserves estimated capital investments of $3.2 billion and operations and maintenance funding of $361 million per year would be required until 2020, concluding that total historical spending (federal & others) since 2011-2012 and the planned spending announced in Budget 2016 could only cover 70% of the total investment needs.

The Department obtained additional funding through Budgets 2017, 2018 and 2019. Between 2011-20112 and 2020-2021, Indigenous Services Canada spent $3.15 billion in capital funding on water and wastewater.

Increased operations and maintenance funding obtained through Budget 2019 and the 2020 Fall economic Statement will increase the funding support provided to First Nations to approximately $368 million per year in 2025-2026.

Background

On December 1, 2021, the Parliamentary Budget Officer tabled a report on budget sufficiency for water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nations communities, entitled Clean Water for First Nations: Is the Government Spending Enough? This report responds to a request by Independent Senator Renée Dupuis; it analyzes spending on water and wastewater, estimates investment needs, and compares these to actual and planned investments.

Indigenous Services Canada is working in full partnership with First Nation communities, including with First Nations technical advisors and leaders, to support sustainable First Nations-led approaches to ensure that on-reserve water systems are safe. This includes Technical Services Advisory Group in Alberta (TSAG), the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC), the Atlantic Policy Congress, and technical service delivery Hubs pilot projects in Ontario. ISC also works directly with First Nations to assist communities in monitoring drinking water quality in all water systems, which includes providing advice and guidance about drinking water safety and wastewater disposal, and reviewing infrastructure project proposals from a public health perspective.

Budget 2021 committed an additional $1.043 billion over 2 years, starting in 2022-23, to support water and wastewater projects. The funding will enable ISC to continue to support the planning, procurement, construction, and commissioning of water and wastewater minor and major capital projects for both new builds, as well as system repairs and upgrades in First Nations communities. Budget 2021 also announced $125.2 million over four years, beginning in 2022-23, and $31.3 million on-going thereafter to continue to support First Nations communities' reliable access to clean water and help ensure the safe delivery of health and social services on reserve.

As of June 30, 2021, more than $2.07 billion of targeted funding has been invested to support 751 water and wastewater projects, including 408 that are now completed. These projects will serve 464,000 people in 582 First Nations communities.

It should be noted that drinking water advisories are issued to protect the public from drinking water that is potentially unsafe, or confirmed to be unsafe, based on water quality testing. Drinking water advisories are issued by First Nations in their communities and off-reserve by provincial, territorial or municipal governments.

Communities may also choose to issue a drinking water advisory as a precautionary measure, such as when there are emergency repairs in the water distribution system or if a community does not have a trained Water System Operator or Community-Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor in place. Some drinking water advisories are short-term to advise residents of a temporary water quality issue on a specific water system (e.g.: equipment failure).

The government is working closely with First Nations by providing sustainable investments, expanding delivery systems, building capacity of and retaining local water operators, as well as supporting regular monitoring and testing on all drinking water systems to prevent short-term and re-occurring advisories.

If pressed on infrastructure issue

• The Government of Canada is working closely with the Government of Nunavut and City of Iqaluit to resolve the current issue of contaminated drinking water in Iqaluit.
• Infrastructure Canada has received a request for funding through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund's large project stream from the City of Iqaluit for the Iqaluit Water Infrastructure Improvement Project. The project is currently being assessed.
• A long-term solution is infrastructure-based and Canada will continue working collaboratively with the city and the territory to arrive at a long-term solution.

Issue

The Supplementary Estimates (B) is the second opportunity for Parks Canada to make adjustments to its 2021-22 reference levels. Parks Canada is seeking to increase its reference levels in the amount of $131.4 million through these Supplementary Estimates.

Response

• Through the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B), the Agency is seeking to increase its reference levels in the amount of approximately $131.4 million. The majority of this amount – up to $71.7 million – is the upper limit of funds that would be available to help sustain Agency operations by partially covering the shortfall in revenue, if necessary. Revenue shortfalls are mainly related to visitor service fees, sales of rights and permits and sales of services, for the first six months of the 2021-22 fiscal year due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Supplementary Estimates (B) also includes funding of $47.8 million to conserve Canada's lands and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature, funding of $4.4 million to implement the Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site Action Plan, funding of $3.9 million to address imminent threats to wood bison and funding of $3.6 million to implement Canada's new marine conservation targets.
• Finally, a vote transfer in the amount of $42.7 million to the New Parks and Historic Sites Account (NPHS Account) to support the creation, expansion and designation of new National Historic Sites, National Parks, National Marine Conservation Areas and other Protected Heritage Areas.

Background

Following are additional details on major items included in these Supplementary Estimates.

Issue

Canada has established domestic and international biodiversity goals. These goals include conserving 25 percent of Canada's lands and freshwater and 25 percent of its coastal and marine areas by 2025, working toward conserving 30 per cent by 2030. As of the end of 2020, 12.5 percent of Canada's lands and freshwaters and 13.8 percent of coastal and marine areas were conserved.

Response

• In 2021, the Government of Canada committed $2.3 billion over five years for Canada's Enhanced Nature Legacy, to continue supporting nature conservation measures across the country, including Indigenous leadership in conservation.
• Additionally, to help meet our marine conservation targets, protect against loss of marine habitat, and address the challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change, Budget 2021 provides $976.8 million over five years.
• The investments from Budget 2021 include $460 million over five years to create ten new national parks and four new freshwater marine conservation areas, while working to acquire the land needed to expand and complete existing national parks as well as protecting and expanding 22 of Canada's national wildlife areas and $130 million to work with partners to create a network of national urban parks.
• Investments include $340 million to support Indigenous-led conservation over five years to fund new and existing Indigenous Guardians initiatives including at Parks Canada administered places and for Environment and Climate Change Canada and Indigenous communities to advance Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs).
• Investments include $796 million to collaborate with provinces, territories, and other partners to protect nature across the country and $24 million to protect woodland Caribou in Jasper National Park.

Background

Nature is under threat due to climate change, but nature is also our very best ally in the fight against it. The climate and nature crises are inextricably linked. Climate change is altering the water cycle, resulting in flooding, droughts, and wildfires. It is driving biodiversity loss at an unprecedented rate, with up to one million species currently at risk of extinction. Conserving and restoring nature is fundamental to mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Budget 2021 funding taken together with funding provided for the Nature Legacy Initiative announced in 2018, represents the largest investment in nature conservation in Canada's history.

There are currently 47 national parks, five national marine conservation areas and one urban park that protect iconic landscapes that are representative of the nation's diversity of terrestrial and marine natural regions, and that assist in protecting the traditional lands of Indigenous communities.

There are currently 55 national wildlife areas and ninety-two migratory bird sanctuaries across Canada, with some located in regions that include relatively undisturbed ecosystems, containing nationally significant habitats for wildlife.

Since 2018, the Indigenous Guardians Pilot has invested over $20 million in more than eighty initiatives across the country. Fifty-two Indigenous communities across the country have received funding to either establish IPCAs or undertake early planning and engagement work that could result in additional IPCAs.

Canada's protected and conserved areas are managed to ensure the long term sustainability of the areas' natural qualities and amenities. Biodiversity conservation is the overall goal, and areas can be working landscapes, or support other priorities, so long as they achieve the conservation of biodiversity.

Issue

• In January 2020, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada announced that he had formed the opinion that Wood Bison are facing imminent threats to their recovery because of threats to two herds in northeastern Alberta: the Ronald Lake and Wabasca herds. On February 25, 2021 the Imminent Threat Assessment for Wood Bison was posted on the Species at Risk Public Registry.
• Several Wood Bison herds occur in Wood Buffalo National Park, including the disease-free Ronald Lake herd in the southeastern area of Wood Buffalo National Park. The disease-free Wabasca herd occurs close to, but outside the southwestern boundary of Wood Buffalo National Park.

Response

• The Government of Canada is continuing to work towards the conservation and recovery of this species. and to support the goals and objectives of the federal Wood Bison Recovery Strategy.
• Harvesting restrictions are in place to address imminent threats facing the Wabasca and Ronald Lake herds.
• Parks Canada is leading research to develop an oral bovine tuberculosis vaccine in collaboration with the University of Saskatchewan, the Canadian Bison Association, and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization.
• Parks Canada is monitoring the distribution and range of infected wood bison herds within Wood Buffalo National Park to improve our understanding of habitat use and potential for range overlap with disease-free wood bison herds.
• To further address the imminent threats to Wood Bison, Canada and Alberta have negotiated a draft Conservation Agreement under s.11 of the Species at Risk Act for the Wabasca and Ronald Lake Bison Herds. This draft Agreement was posted for public comment on June 25, 2021. ECCC is currently consulting with Indigenous groups on the draft agreement.

Background

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), in his role as Minister responsible for Parks Canada, is a competent Minister for Wood Bison under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) where the species occurs on Parks Canada lands. In his role as Minister of ECCC, he is the competent Minister for the species outside of Parks Canada lands. ECCC is leading Wood Bison recovery.

Wood bison were listed in 2003 as Threatened under the Species at Risk Act. The final federal recovery strategy was posted on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2018. There are an estimated 9,000 wood bison in Canada, approximately half of which reside in three herds affected by cattle-derived diseases (bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis). The remaining individuals live in nine disease-free herds.

Two imminent threats have been identified for the Ronald Lake herd:

• the presence of disease and risk of disease transmission from diseased bison herds in Wood Buffalo National Park; and
• industrial development, including the Teck Frontier project, which would have significantly reduced habitat and range

The imminent threat to the Wabasca herd, which has fewer than 20 individuals, is unregulated hunting. Disease may also represent a threat to the Wabasca herd, but information on herd movements is lacking.

Wood bison in and around Wood Buffalo National Park have been infected with bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis since the 1920s and pose an ongoing risk of disease spillover to cattle and ranched bison in Alberta, as well as to non-diseased conservation herds in Alberta and the Northwest Territories. The percentage of the bison that are infected has remained relatively consistent since the 1950s.

Wood Bison was identified as one of six "priority species" under the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, which was approved by federal/provincial/territorial ministers in 2018. This approach aims to focus collaborative action on shared priorities to maximize conservation benefits through the identification of priority sectors, places and species.

Parks Canada's 2010 management plan for Wood Buffalo National Park committed to minimizing the risk of transmission of bovine diseases to adjacent disease-free Wood Bison.

Issue

Combined, Budget 2018 and Budget 2021 provided $98.1 million to support implementation of the Wood Buffalo Action Plan. In February 2022, Parks Canada will submit a State of Conservation Report on Wood Buffalo National Park to the World Heritage Committee. The World Heritage Committee has requested Canada host a Reactive Monitoring Mission as soon as possible to assess Plan implementation.

Response

• At the request of the World Heritage Committee, the Government of Canada, in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders, developed an Action Plan to ensure the Outstanding Universal Value of Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site will be secured.
• Through Budget 2018 and Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is making historic investments in the protection of Canada's nature, parks and wild spaces. This includes $98.1 million for the Action Plan for Wood Buffalo National Park aimed at:
• strengthening collaboration with Indigenous partners for management of the park;
• enhancing scientific research and ecological monitoring using science and Indigenous knowledge;
• investing in water science and water management within the park; and,
• implementing recovery actions for wood bison and whooping crane.
• The Government of Canada will continue to deliver on measures outlined in the Action Plan. We are pleased with progress to date with more than half of the identified actions completed or underway.
• By implementing the Action Plan in collaboration with partners, and by making use of the best available science and Indigenous knowledge, the Outstanding Universal Value of Wood Buffalo National Park will be preserved and the important issues identified by the World Heritage Committee will be addressed.
• Despite challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to work together to deliver measures outlined in the Action Plan. We are pleased with progress to date with more than half of the identified actions being completed or underway.

Background

In 2017, the UNESCO's World Heritage Committee requested that Canada develop an Action Plan for the Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site to address threats to the site's Outstanding Universal Value as a result of climate change and pressures from development outside its boundaries.

The Action Plan was submitted to the World Heritage Committee on February 1, 2019 and tabled in Parliament in March 2019.

Canada is leading the implementation of the Action Plan in collaboration with the Government of Alberta, Government of British Columbia, Government of Northwest Territories and Indigenous partners.

The Plan is a comprehensive response to the World Heritage Committee concerns and includes 142 actions that are focused on:

• strengthening park management in collaboration with Indigenous partners;
• enhancing research, monitoring and management of the Peace-Athabasca Delta using science and Indigenous knowledge;
• establishing new mechanisms to support improved water management in the Peace Athabasca Delta;
• increasing the protection and connectivity of ecosystems within and adjacent to Wood Buffalo NP; and
• implementing recovery actions for Species At Risk Act-listed whooping crane and wood bison.

Combined, Budget 2018 ($27.5 million) and Budget 2021 ($70.6 million) provided $98.1 million for the Plan's implementation.

In July 2021, the World Heritage Committee adopted a decision on the state of conservation of Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site, and requested that Canada provide an updated report on the Action Plan's progress by February 2022. The World Heritage Committee also requested that Canada host a Reactive Monitoring Mission as soon as possible to assess Action Plan implementation efforts.

Background

• Parks Canada is mandated with the protection and presentation of nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage. Canada's network of 222 national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas protect some 450,000 square kilometres of Canada's iconic geography, diverse ecology, and rich history and bring it to life for millions of visitors every year.
• Its diverse portfolio includes cultural heritage assets mainly found in national historic sites; contemporary visitor experience assets such as campgrounds, visitor facilities, and trails; 1,083 km of major highways passing through 18 national parks and one national historic site; and waterway assets – including bridges, dams, and canal walls, located throughout nine heritage canals in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia spanning a total of 625 km.
• Whereas many federal custodians rely on their built assets to support their mandated program delivery, Parks Canada's assets are inextricably linked to mandate delivery and therefore directly contribute to Government priority outcomes.
• However, as the Parks Canada asset portfolio was assembled over many decades, many large assets were transferred to Parks Canada without any related funding. As a result, deferred work accumulated resulting in wide-spread asset deterioration. By 2012, 50% of the portfolio was in poor or very poor condition.
• Investing in the Agency's asset base has been a focus of the Government since 2014, and Parks Canada has been delivering on its asset investment commitments with time-limited funding. At the end of the current program of work, almost 1,000 completed projects will have allowed the Agency to make gains on its backlog of deferred work, with a significant improvement in the overall condition of its asset portfolio (69% now in fair to good condition).
• Parks Canada is continuing to work on the long term planning needed to ensure effective management and ongoing sustainability of its wide-ranging and diverse portfolio.
• Through the continued delivery of its investment program, Parks Canada is addressing government priorities including: stimulating domestic economic growth and promoting tourism; ensuring public health and safety; enhancing accessibility and inclusivity of public infrastructure; promoting climate change resilience; greening government operations, and furthering Canada's reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and nations.
• Investments in highways are enhancing public safety and facilitating trade. Investments in visitor facilities are supporting tourism, in particular in rural areas and in Indigenous communities. Universal accessibility investments are also expanding the reach of protected areas to a larger number of Canadians who get the wellness benefits of experiencing greenspace. Investments in renewable energy have reduced greenhouse gas emissions from Parks Canada facilities. Investments in cultural heritage assets are fostering national pride, unity and social cohesion while ensuring that an evolving and representative story of Canada's history and culture can be told.
• Despite the best efforts of all concerned to reduce negative impacts of COVID-19 on Parks Canada's ongoing infrastructure projects, some projects have experienced delays due to the availability of workforce and key materials.

Organization Summary

Highlights of 2021-22 Q2

Of the $131.4 million, $71.7 million is funding to help sustain the Agency's operations by partially covering the shortfall in revenue. This funding represents an up-to amount that the Agency will be able access, conditional on actual revenue collected.

The second largest item in these Estimates is funding to conserve Canada's lands and freshwater, protect species, advance Indigenous reconciliation and increase access to nature.

Parks Canada Agency Supplementary Estimates (B) items

Internal Transfer

Through these Supplementary Estimates, the Agency is also requesting to transfer resources totaling $42.7 million from Vote 1 program expenditures to Vote 5 Payments to the New Parks and Historic Sites Account. The purpose of this funding is for the creation, expansion and designation of new national historic sites, national parks, national marine conservation areas and other protected heritage areas.

Background

• Under the Canada National Parks Act, Parks Canada is responsible for managing wildland fire across 350,195 km2 of federal Crown lands. This includes a number of iconic town sites including Banff, Jasper and Waterton.
• Parks Canada's fire management program has four objectives: (1) to mitigate wildfire risks, and control and manage wildfires to protect "values at risk"; (2) to maintain the role of fire as a natural ecological process; (3) to maintain readiness to respond to wildfires; and (4) to maintain Parks Canada's obligations to partner agencies.
• Parks Canada exchanges operational wildfire resources with provinces and territories through the Canadian Interagency Mutual Aid Resource Sharing (MARS) Agreement and border zone agreements, as well as with international partners, coordinated by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC).
• Natural Resources Canada is the federal lead for CIFFC. Together with Parks Canada, both organizations represent the federal government through CIFFC governance as members of the Board of Directors and various management and working committees. CIFFC coordinates the sharing of resources for wildfire response across Canada and internationally. As of 2021, CIFFC's mandate has expanded to include wildfire prevention and mitigation in addition to preparedness and response.
• Parks Canada collaborates with federal, provincial, territorial, and international governments as well as the academic, non-profit, and private sectors to prepare for and respond to wildfires as well as to better understand, prevent, and manage increasing risks.

Budget 2021

• Climate change is driving more intense, faster moving and longer lasting wildfires, increasing risk to the safety and security of Canadians, to economic activity, and to critical infrastructure. To help mitigate these risks, Budget 021 announced $105.4 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to the Parks Canada Agency to enhance wildfire preparedness in Canada's National Parks. This includes existing resources of $10.6 million a year as per the budget announcement, resulting in incremental resources for wildfire of $52.5 million over five years.
• These investments will also enhance Parks Canada's capacity to support provincial, territorial and international partners with additional capacity, resources and personnel in their times of need.

Wildfire statistics and risk reduction work

• From 2014 to 2020 there was an average of 108 wildfires per year on Parks Canada administered lands and an average of 36 prescribed fires were planned per year.
• Prescribed fire is an important method of reducing wildfire risk to the public, critical infrastructure, property, and economic activity as well as an important tool for restoring ecological integrity, which is key to biodiversity

Issue

The Review of Designations aims to address historical issues and controversies in the government's existing commemorations of persons, events and sites of national historic significance via the National Program of Historical Commemoration.

Response

• Designations of persons, sites and events provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about the rich and varied history of Canada, its breadth and depth.
• Parks Canada recognizes the need to ensure that the National Program of Historical Commemoration, and all of the Agency's public history programs, are based on the principles of integrity, inclusiveness and relevance. Major shifts in historical understanding have occurred over the past century, and attention must be given to these shifts.
  • In June 2019, Parks Canada released its new Framework for History and Commemoration: National Historic Sites of Canada System Plan 2019. This framework includes direction for the careful review of existing designations.
• Through the review of designations, the commemorations which tell the history of Canada will better acknowledge the contributions of Indigenous peoples and the diversity of historical experiences of all Canadians, as well as addressing existing controversies associated with major historical figures.

Background

• The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) is the Minister's advisor for the National Program of Historical Commemoration and provides the Minister with recommendations for new designations as well as reviews of existing designations and their plaque texts.
• The review of all existing designations was initiated at the request of the Minister through a mandate letter to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada in October 2017. The approach was approved by the Minister in the Framework for History and Commemoration (2019). Additional guidance and clear processes for review via the Historic Sites and Monument Board of Canada have been established.
• An important consideration for this review is the Government's endorsement of the Calls to Action of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), more specifically Call to Action 79.
• There are more than 2,220 existing designations under the National Program of Historical Commemoration which reflect 100 years of evolving perspectives and interpretations, associated with the times in which each was designated. Of this number, 205 have been identified as requiring a review at this time.
• Priorities were set by taking into account public requests for reviews, public controversies, subjects identified as urgent by an Indigenous consultant, requests from Parks Canada field units, and plaques already on the list to be replaced as part of the general program update.
• The designations and plaques which require review have been assessed as relating to four issues: colonial legacy, absence or erasure of a significant layer of history, outdated or offensive terminology, and controversial beliefs and behaviors. For example, offensive terminology relates to the use of the terms "Indian" or "Eskimo" in existing plaque texts. The scope of what will be reviewed includes designations associated with residential school history, major political figures such as Egerton Ryerson and John A. Macdonald, as well as people associated with the eugenics movement.
• External engagement will be led by Parks Canada historians, seeking input from the requestor of the review when applicable, any implicated community, subject-matter experts and local stakeholders, where relevant. The review process is in keeping with public history practices and with processes used for new nominations and plaque texts.
• A robust communications framework is in development to support this work, including proactive and reactive approaches, as well as standard approaches to sharing information on the web. The objective is clarity and transparency about the review process – when it has been initiated, when it is complete, and communicating results.
• Parks Canada's Directory of Federal Heritage Designations currently identifies some of the designations identified for review. The Directory and the website of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board will be used to communicate the process and results of the review to the public.
• The Review of Designations is in its first year. It is anticipated that it will be a core part of Parks Canada's business for the next three years and that lessons learned in this year will inform subsequent years.

Issue

In January 2021, as part of Parks Canada's ongoing implementation of the 2017 Service Fees Act, the Agency communicated that fees for optional value-added services, such as guided programs, access to hot pools, special event permits, and golf will increase in 2023. The Agency also communicated that Consumer Price Index fee adjustments required under the Service Fees Act will now take place every two years beginning in 2022.

Response

Parks Canada fees are very reasonable and offer good value for Canadians. The Agency reinvests all revenues earned from fees into operations. Over 20 percent of Parks Canada's operating budget comes from fee revenues. Providing high quality service and experiences to Canadians requires reasonable cost recovery for fee-based services while being affordable for individuals and families.

Parks Canada conducted a national consultation on fees in 2019. The consultation supported further adjustments to fees to improve cost recovery and bring some fees into closer alignment with market rates, particularly where these fees inadvertently compete with private sector offers like golf and hot pools.

The 2017 Service Fees Act provides for increased transparency in the setting and administration of service fees across federal departments and agencies. It also requires improved cost-recovery where services bring a largely private benefit to individuals or businesses. Regular adjustments of fees to reflect inflation based on the Consumer Price Index are a further requirement of the Act.

Background

Parks Canada administers more than 3,500 individual fees that fall under the scope of the Service Fees Act. They range from admission to accommodation, to lockage, as well as municipal services, business licenses and various permits.

In January 2021, as part of Parks Canada's ongoing implementation of the 2017 Service Fees Act, the Agency communicated that fees for optional value-added services, such as guided programs, access to hot pools, special event permits, and golf will increase in 2023. The Agency also communicated that Consumer Price Index fee adjustments required under the Service Fees Act will now take place every two years beginning in 2022.

The 2017 Service Fees Act, requires that departments and agencies adjust service fees for inflation on an annual basis unless an alternative schedule is approved by the responsible Minister. Beginning in 2022, Parks Canada will adjust service fees for inflation only every two years. This provides greater price certainty and predictability for Parks Canada visitors, partners, and clients and offers greater lead time for advising Canadians of the introduction of price changes.

Issue

Parks Canada has launched a new program for the creation of a network of national urban parks, building on over 110 years of history in the creation of national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas. In collaboration with various partners, Parks Canada will create or expand urban parks that are readily accessible to people in Canada's urban centres and provide opportunities to connect to, and learn about, local nature and culture. Budget 2021 provided funding for this priority.

Response

On August 4th 2021, the Government of Canada launched the new program to support the creation of a network of national urban parks. This program is supported by Budget 2021's historic investment of $2.3 billion in Canada's Nature Legacy to address the biodiversity crisis, protect and conserve nature, and create jobs in nature conservation, with up to $130.9 million provided specifically toward this effort.

Over the next five years, Parks Canada will work with partners and stakeholders to develop a new national urban parks policy to guide the creation of the network of national urban parks, which will include areas managed under a range of flexible governance models, including federally administered places, third party administered places, and partnership models.

The National Urban Parks Program will:

• contribute to Canada's commitment to protecting biodiversity and conserve 25 percent of land and inland waters and 25  percent of marine and coastal areas by 2025, working toward 30  percent by 2030;
• help to mitigate the impacts of climate change;
• support the economy;
• enhance the health and wellbeing of millions of Canadians by increasing their access to green space; and
• advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples living in urban areas.

To date, Statements of Collaboration to explore the potential for national urban park sites have been signed with:

• City of Colwood, BC
• Meewasin Valley Authority in Saskatoon, SK
• City of Winnipeg, MB
• City of Windsor, ON
• Halifax Regional Municipality, NS

Parks Canada has also begun exploratory discussions with Edmonton and Montreal to identify possible sites.

Urban parks are critical to Canadians' health and wellbeing and evidenced even more during the current pandemic. In a survey of over 1,600 Canadians conducted by Parks, 70% said they appreciate parks more since physical distancing began. Additionally, a survey of over 50 municipalities had over half reporting an increase in park use since the pandemic began.

Background

Currently Canada has only one national urban park: the Rouge National Urban Park, in the Greater Toronto Area. This park, which is within a one-hour drive for 20% of Canada's population, helps to protect biodiversity in densely populated southern Canada and is home to almost 1,700 species, including 27 species at risk.

In a 2020 survey of 27 cities by Park People, 63% of cities reported protecting biodiversity and enhancing natural areas as a top challenge. Yet this survey also found that on average only 45% of urban park systems in Canada are natural areas.

Other studies have highlighted inequities in access to parks, noting for example that parks in underserved communities, which have poorer health outcomes, are also the parks that have fewer amenities (e.g., they are often flat, grassy expanses that lack playgrounds, shade, and benches). Evidence suggests that access to more natural parks is associated with more positive health and wellbeing outcomes.

Urban Parks support the economy, create jobs, and result in avoided costs such those associated with health care and crime.

Estimates from Philadelphia demonstrated benefits such as tax revenue from increased property values of $689 million, income from tourism of $40.3 million, savings in medical costs of $69.4 billion, and community cohesion values such as reduced crime of $8.6 million.

The Rouge National Urban Park has estimated that at least 200 additional direct jobs have been created in areas such as trail building, conservation/restoration projects, housing restoration, archaeological fieldwork, and building new park assets and infrastructure.

Issue

Through Indigenous stewardship initiatives, Parks Canada works collaboratively with Indigenous peoples to support reconciliation and the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Response

Parks Canada works with Indigenous peoples to further advance stewardship and conservation priorities for both natural and cultural heritage.

Parks Canada fosters examples of an Indigenous stewardship approach that is tailored to the rights, priorities, and aspirations of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners. For example, Indigenous stewardship initiatives now form part of the park establishment process, through early discussions on guardians programs and cooperative management approaches. The following are other examples of stewardship in action at Parks Canada:

• More than 30 collaborative management arrangements with Indigenous peoples at Parks Canada places;
• 7 on-the-land guardians programs that provide a variety of supports for park operations as well as training and career opportunities for Indigenous Peoples in land management within their traditional territories;
• ongoing collaboration with Indigenous groups to facilitate traditional harvesting activities of plants for medicinal and traditional purposes;
• integrating Indigenous knowledge in conservation activities such as the 2018 Gwaii Haanas Land-Sea-People Management Plan and current initiative to protect and support recovery of the Southern Resident Killer Whales with the Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations;
• working in partnership with Indigenous groups at Parks Canada places to provide economic opportunities such as the current development of the Upscheek tashee multi-use pathway project in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

The 2020 Response to the Minister's Round Table on Parks Canada included the commitment to develop a proposed framework to support Indigenous stewardship in protected heritage places, through processes of collaboration and dialogue with Indigenous peoples and partners.

The recent establishment of Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve and of Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area (TINMCA) are outstanding examples of Indigenous-led conservation in action, with Thaidene Nene including an innovative trust fund to support Indigenous leadership.

Background

Parks Canada administers over 90 percent of federal lands, nearly all of which have been traditionally used by Indigenous peoples. Parks Canada currently works within the traditional territories of approximately 300 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

Past and present actions in many protected heritage places have impacted the relationships Indigenous peoples have with their traditional territories. As part of this history, Parks Canada has played a role in promoting the idea that nature or "wilderness" needed to be protected from humans. In some cases, Indigenous peoples were actively separated from these places; such actions have contributed to lasting harms that continue to this day.

Today, in recognition of this history and the important roles that Indigenous peoples continue to play in protecting and conserving land, water and ice, Parks Canada has undertaken preliminary policy work to develop a proposed Indigenous Stewardship Framework (Framework). The proposed Framework identifies key areas of work to advance a process of renewal for the Agency centred around a vision of protected area management and governance that is respectfully aligned with Indigenous ways of stewarding lands, waters, and ice, and that would support implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The proposed Framework includes both core and enabling elements to support how conservation goals of Indigenous peoples and Parks Canada's mandate can be accomplished together. These elements may evolve over time as we continue to engage and work together with Indigenous peoples on the overall approach.

Proposed Core Elements: four connected elements are understood to be central components of Indigenous stewardship: Indigenous knowledge systems; shared governance; practices on the land, water and ice; and economic opportunities.

Proposed Enabling Elements: three other elements are considered to be foundations for Indigenous stewardship: broader efforts to build and maintain strong relationships between Indigenous peoples and Parks Canada; the need to acknowledge or apologize for past and present actions; education and understanding, including among Parks Canada employees and Canadians.

Next steps

The Framework will be collaboratively developed and implemented via a phased approach, moving from initial high-level dialogue towards processes that reflect current practice in co-development with Indigenous partners, as well as being inclusive of public and stakeholder perspectives.

It is anticipated that near-term changes to policies, programs, and planning processes will be developed to support longer-term transformative actions, including:

• Measures to enhance the economic benefit of protected heritage places within Indigenous peoples' traditional territories;
• A broadened spectrum of decision-making arrangements and governance structures;
• Programs and policies to support active relationships with lands, water and ice and maintain intergenerational knowledge transmission;
• Modernized and renewed management approaches that respond to Indigenous interests and enable implementation of rights, including harvesting;
• Educational programming to support a shift in corporate and public understanding of Indigenous peoples' stewardship roles and responsibilities, and
• Initiatives and structures to ensure Indigenous knowledge is respectfully and appropriately valued and protected, and Indigenous knowledge holders are respectfully engaged by Parks Canada.

The envisioned outcome is a future in which Parks Canada places are governed and managed in accordance with shared values and through systems and processes that respect and honour Indigenous and Crown authorities and worldviews.

What it is

The New Parks and Historic Sites Account is a special purpose account that provides the Agency with the ability to set aside funds for new or expanded national historic sites, national parks, national marine conservation areas and other protected areas. Funds are deposited into the New Parks and Historic Sites Account in order to protect the funding required for use at a future date and honor the Agency's commitment for the establishment, enlargement or designation of national historic sites, national parks, national marine conservation areas or other protected heritage areas.

The Account is funded from Parks Canada appropriations (i.e., amounts appropriated to Parks Canada for the establishment and operation of sites), the disposition of the Agency's real property or federal immovables, and from gifts, bequests and donations. Amounts are paid out of the account primarily for the following purposes:

• to acquire any real property or immovables; and
• to develop or maintain any national historic site, national park, national marine conservation area or other protected heritage area that is being established, enlarged or designated, and to make any related contribution or other payment.

How it works

Parks Canada accesses funding for new or expanded sites through the Treasury Board submission process. The funding accounts for costs associated with the site establishment phase (i.e., land purchase, building visitor center and trails) as well as the ongoing operational phase of sites. The funding acquired through the submission process is placed in the Agency's program expenditures vote (vote 1).

If opportunities arise, our priorities include completing two existing National Parks - Bruce Peninsula and Grasslands.

The Agency expends these funds as needed and also transfers, through the Estimates process, funds from vote 1 (Program expenditures) to the New Parks and Historic Sites account (vote 5), in order to set aside establishment related funds for future years. Funds placed in this account remain available until such time as needed for the establishment of the site, which can take place over a number of years.

Current status

With the Supplementary Estimates (B) transfer, funds available in the Account for 2021-22 total $140.1 million and are for the following national historic site, national parks and national marine conservation areas:

• Rouge National Urban Park ($52.7 million)
• Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area ($15.1 million)
• Qausuittuq National Park, Ukkusiksalik National Park, Talluruptiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area, Wrecks of HMS Erebus & HMS Terror National Historic Site ($17.6 million)
• Naats'ihch'oh National Park Reserve, Nahanni National Park Reserve, Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve ($13.9 million)
• Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site ($1.3 million)
• Gulf Islands National Park Reserve ($1.4 million)
• Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve ($2.9 million)
• Grassland National Park ($0.2 million)
• Land acquisitions to expand and complete existing National Parks ($35 million)

Indigenous Knowledge

Indigenous knowledge is central to the Parks Canada Agency mandate. The Clam Garden project and work to realize the Wood Buffalo Action Plan are just two examples of collaborative conservation with Indigenous partners that incorporate knowledge from both Indigenous and western knowledge systems.

Cooperative Management

Parks Canada recognizes the historic and ongoing responsibilities of Indigenous peoples in the stewardship of natural and cultural heritage of their ancestral territories and homelands. To this end, the Agency has been working to advance cooperative management arrangements with Indigenous peoples at natural and cultural heritage places it administers.

Indigenous Guardians

Indigenous leaders across Canada have advanced a vision for a national network of Indigenous Guardians Programs that support Indigenous management and oversight in their territories grounded in a cultural responsibility for the land. Indigenous Guardians act as the "eyes and ears" of the territory and monitor, manage, and steward their lands and waters. Indigenous communities across Canada have different names for this important role, including guardians, watchers, watchmen, monitors, rangers, observers, etc. and each program is reflective of the unique local cultures, approaches and activities of Indigenous communities.

Stories of Canada

Parks Canada has collaborated with Indigenous communities to share and communicate their histories in their own way and in their own voices in over forty heritage places including Saoyú-Ɂehdacho, Fort Langley, Province House and Point Pelee NP. Working with over sixty Indigenous communities to re-evaluate the narrative of the stories shared at Canada's heritage places to develop new ways of showcasing the importance of these treasured places from an Indigenous perspective so that Canadians have opportunities to understand a fuller scope of Canada's history.

Indigenous Collaboration in Archaeology

Parks Canada works in close collaboration with Indigenous communities across Canada on archaeology projects within national historic sites and national parks.

Issue

• The vast majority of federally-owned historic places do not have legal protection including the Parliament Buildings and those owned by the Parks Canada Agency. Canada is the only G7 country without comprehensive legislation to protect historic places within its jurisdiction. Further, the federal government is lagging behind the provinces and territories which have all adopted heritage legislation for their jurisdictions.
• Parks Canada has advanced work required to introduce legislation for the transparent designation and sustainable protection of over 300 federally-owned historic places.
• Budget 2021 earmarked the funding required to implement such legislation, if enacted: $28.7 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, and $5.8 million ongoing.

Response

• Greater transparency in heritage designations can help advance reconciliation and contribute to creating a more inclusive and resilient society. The planned legislation would include measures to address Call to Action 79 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and to respond to renewed public interest in the diverse histories of Canada.
• Sustainable protection measures in the planned legislation would address broad support in public and in Parliament for consistent legal protection for federally-owned historic places. The current protection framework is uneven and leaves most federally-owned historic places without legal protection.

Background

• Historic places deliver social, economic, well-being and environmental benefits to communities in every province and territory. Those administered by the Parks Canada Agency alone contribute over $600M annually to Canada's GDP, and support 6,100 jobs directly and indirectly, including in rural, remote and Indigenous communities. This is in addition to the economic impact historic places have on the tourism industry – as iconic landmarks or symbols of Canadian identity - and the role they play in branding a municipality or region as a tourism destination and in attracting and retaining visitors.
• Canadians' attachment to their cultural heritage is undeniable, and is publicly expressed when historic places are threatened with destruction or irreparable damage. Further, 94% agree that national historic sites are a source of pride for them as Canadians, and 99% agree that national historic sites should be enjoyed by future generations.
• Canada's historic places have reached a tipping point. Once a historic place's heritage value is impaired, the damage cannot be undone. It is lost forever.
• As observed by the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (ENVI) in 2017, the existing policy protection afforded to federally-owned historic places has reached its limits. In 2018, the Auditor General of Canada found that the federal government focused primarily on designating heritage properties, rather than conserving them and further noted that "the life of some federal properties was at risk – properties that are for the enjoyment of present and future generations of Canadians."
• Federal heritage designations include federally-owned historic places that have been formally recognized for their archaeological, architectural or historic interest to Canada. The existing suite of federal heritage designations include:
  • National Historic Sites, Persons and Events designated pursuant to the Historic Sites and Monuments Act;
  • Federal Heritage Buildings designated pursuant to the Treasury Board Directive on the Management of Real Property;
  • Heritage Railway Stations designated pursuant to the Heritage Railway Stations Protection Act; and,
  • Heritage Lighthouses designated pursuant to the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act.
• Most federal heritage designations are made by the Minister on the advice of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC). "Federal heritage buildings" are an exception. They are designated by the Minister on the advice of a federal inter-departmental committee.
• Today, designation does not necessarily result in protection nor conservation for federally-owned historic places. Only the Heritage Railway Stations Protection Act (1985) and the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act (2008) entail statutory heritage obligations automatically upon designation. Both pieces of legislation were introduced to Parliament as Private Member's Bills.
• Parks Canada has carefully considered recommendations received through recent examinations. These include:
  • 2018 – Auditor General of Canada, Conserving Federal Heritage Properties; and,
  • 2017 – Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (ENVI),

Preserving Canada's Heritage: The Foundation for Tomorrow.

• In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released its final report with 94 calls to action. Parks Canada is the federal lead for Call to Action 79, which focusses on federal heritage commemoration and calls for the inclusion of First Nations, Inuit and Métis representation on the HSMBC, the review of federal heritage policies, and measures to better commemorate Indigenous history, including the history and legacy of the Residential Schools system and school sites across Canada.
• Work conducted to advance historic places legislation is informed by recent engagement with key stakeholders, the Minister's Round Table 2017 and 2020, Indigenous groups, national heritage organizations, railway companies as well as provinces and territories. Over 160 Indigenous bodies were invited to provide their views, and approximately 40 groups participated through virtual meetings between winter 2020 and summer 2021.

Issue

Due to the general election, the 2021-22 Supplementary Estimates (B) proceeded as a directed exercise.

Response

• Veterans Affairs Directed Supplementary Estimates (B) reflect this government's continued commitment to ensuring there is sufficient funding in Veterans Affairs Canada's programs and services to support all eligible Veterans and their families who may come forward.
• With the Supplementary Estimates (B), VAC's budget will increase by $19.4 million, representing a 0.3% increase over current budget to a total of $6.298 billion
• Over 90% of the Department's budget represents payments to Veterans, their families and other program recipients.

Background

VAC's budget will increase by $19.4 million, representing a 0.3% increase over current budget. VAC's budget will increase from $6,298 million to $6,317 million in relation to the following transfers and adjustments:

Issue

The Department recognizes that the long-standing issue of processing times for disability benefits is unacceptable and reducing them is our top priority.

Response

• The Government is fully committed to the health and well-being of Veterans and their families.
• Between 2015-16 and 2019-20, Veterans Affairs Canada experienced a 40% increase in disability benefit applications, including an increase of more than 75% in first applications. However, in 2020-21, applications received returned to 2015-16 levels, possibly due to the pandemic.
• Veterans Affairs Canada released a strategy to address the long-standing issue of processing times for disability benefits decisions, invested $192 million, and hired more than 350 additional temporary employees, dedicated to the disability benefit decision-making process.
• We have made progress, and have a better understanding of the challenges in processing disability benefits. We are continually looking for ways to accelerate the decision-making process.
• We know there is more to be done – which is why we are working on a number of new initiatives to make more decisions faster and putting Veterans first.

Background

Issue

As part of the settlement of the Canadian Armed Forces-Department of National Defence Sexual Misconduct Class Action, and the requirement to fulfill legal obligations related to the implementation of the restorative engagement program under the final settlement agreement, Veterans Affairs Canada is actively working with the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces to develop psychosocial supports for Veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma. This joint initiative focuses on the development of a CAF and VAC peer support program for survivors of military sexual misconduct.

Response

• The Government of Canada recognizes the unique needs of survivors of sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces.
• Veterans Affairs Canada places the highest priority on ensuring Veterans and their families, including survivors of military sexual misconduct, have the services they need when and where they need them.
• Veterans Affairs Canada has a continuum of mental health supports and services available for survivors of military sexual misconduct.
• We are ensuring survivors have access to the specialized services and supports required to appropriately address the impacts on their personal health and well-being. We are dedicated to meeting their needs.
• We are actively working with the Department of National Defence to develop supports for Veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma.
• The peer support program pilot is anticipated to launch Summer of 2022.

Background

Under a clear mandate to the Minister of National Defence in budget 2021, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is actively working with the Department of National Defence to develop psychosocial supports for Veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma. This joint initiative focuses on the development of a CAF and VAC peer support program for survivors of military sexual misconduct, as part of the settlement of the Canadian Armed Forces - Department of National Defence Sexual Misconduct Class Action (also known as the Heyder-Beattie Class Action), and the requirement to fulfill legal obligations related to the implementation of the restorative engagement program under the final settlement agreement.

VAC places the highest priority on ensuring Veterans and their families, including survivors of military sexual misconduct, have the services they need when and where they need them. With the understanding that military sexual trauma impacts everyone differently, our commitment to supporting the diverse needs of survivors of sexual misconduct can be found in a number of areas:

• At our 11 Operational Stress Injury Clinics across the country, there are multidisciplinary teams with expertise in military-related traumas;
• As not all Veterans live in the major cities across Canada, there are nine satellite service sites to help Veterans access face-to-face services closer to where they live;
• Veterans have access to a network of more than 12,000 mental health professionals across Canada, and the VAC Assistance Service offers Veterans one-on-one mental health services 365 days a year, 24/7.

Veterans and/or CAF members who have a physical or mental health condition related to military sexual trauma, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression and/or physical conditions, are encouraged to apply to VAC for disability benefits. VAC has a dedicated unit to process these applications.

In March 2020, VAC announced its Office of Women and LGBTQ2 Veterans. The office was created in July 2019, and is identifying systemic issues specific to women and LGBTQ2 Veterans, and to advance gender equality, diversity and inclusion for all Veterans.

Veterans Affairs Canada is working closely with the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre, to expand its services to Veterans who experience military sexual trauma.

These initiatives are part of the implementation of supports announced in Budget 2021, that address broader Government of Canada objectives related to the National Action Plan to end Gender-Based Violence, and addressing sexual misconduct and culture change in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Issue

Demand for case management services continue to increase, which means caseloads for case managers remain high.

Response

• The Government places the highest priority on ensuring Veterans and their families have the support and services they need, when and where they need it.
• Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) has increased funding for case management services, in response to growing demand, with now more than 16,000 Veterans being case managed.
• Veterans Affairs Canada has hired more than 400 Case Managers since 2015.
• Veterans are supported by their case managers to identify needs, set goals, and create plans to help them achieve their highest level of independence, health and well-being. It is a tailored service for each Veteran to respond to their unique and specific needs.
• We are working to ensure that frontline staff spend more time in direct service to Veterans and their families.

Independent review

Veterans Affairs Canada is committed to continue hiring additional case managers, and to improve case management services to the benefit of both the Veterans and the Case Managers.

Background

As of December 2020, the Veteran-to-case manager ratio is 33.1:1 (source: Veterans Affairs Canada December 2020 Facts & Figures Book).

Veterans Affairs Canada provides Case Management Services to support those facing complex challenges. It is a collaborative process between the client and Case Management Team to identify needs, set goals, and create a plan to help clients achieve their highest level of independence, health and well-being.

Our case management efforts are aimed at ensuring all Veterans receive the support they need, when they need it. Over the last number of years, we have approximately doubled the number of case managers in order to meet the increasing demands for Case Management Services.

In Budget 2018, as part of Service Excellence (Surge) we received temporary funding for additional case managers. Currently, there are 476 case managers (426 permanent and 50 temporary).

However, we recognize simply increasing staff numbers will not meet the increased demands for these services. As such, we implemented several initiatives which will improve efficiencies and case management practices, while ensuring the appropriate level of service is provided to Veterans and their families.

The implementation of Guided Support in December 2018 ensures Veterans with moderate needs have the appropriate supports in place provided by Veteran Service Agents, allowing Case Managers the capacity to focus on Veterans with more complex needs.

A screening tool implemented in January 2019 improves our ability to identify Veterans' level of risk, needs and complexities so they can be triaged to an appropriate level of support.

A Case Management Renewal initiative will create a more balanced delivery model for case management services to Veterans. The initiative will introduce a new team approach, and improved tools and features from now until March 2022. The aim is to sustain the quality of Case Management Services by ensuring an interdisciplinary team works with Veterans so they receive the appropriate level of service based on their needs, risk and complexity.

In April 2021, we launched a new case management assessment, which uses digital initiatives to reduce administrative burden for case managers, thereby increasing their capacity to work directly with Veterans and their families.

Change of this magnitude takes time to implement. All of these strategies aim to create a more sustainable approach to Case Management Services, leading to a decrease in the ratios over the next few years.