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Section II - Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcomes

This section describes AAFC’s Program Activities by Strategic Outcome, and identifies the Expected Results, Performance Indicators and Targets for each of them. The section also explains how the Department plans on meeting the Expected Results and presents the financial and human resources that will be dedicated to each Program Activity.

Strategic Outcome 1: An environmentally sustainable agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector

AAFC supports an economically and environmentally sustainable agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector that ensures proper management of available natural resources and adaptability to changing environmental conditions. Addressing key environmental challenges in Canada, including agriculture's impact on water quality and water use, adaptation to the impact of climate change, mitigation of agriculture's greenhouse gas emissions and the exploration of new economic opportunities, will contribute to a cleaner environment and healthier living conditions for the Canadian public, while enabling the sector to become more profitable.

This Strategic Outcome comprises the following Program Activities, which are described in the subsequent discussion of Expected Results, Planning Highlights and Benefits to Canadians:

Program Activities
1.1 Environmental Knowledge, Technology, Information, and Measurement	1.2 On-Farm Action

Program Activity 1.1: Environmental Knowledge, Technology, Information and Measurement

Program Activity Summary

AAFC is focussed on supporting the sector through initiatives that enable it to use a more systematic management approach to making decisions with respect to environmental risks, and help identify suitable corrective actions. AAFC is conducting basic and applied research to improve scientific understanding of agriculture’s interactions with the environment on the key environmental challenges facing Canada and its regions; developing sustainable agricultural practices and validating environmental and economic performance at the farm and landscape levels; and developing, enhancing and using agri-environmental indicators, greenhouse gas accounting systems and economic indicators to assess the sector’s environmental and economic sustainability. This program provides the platform for innovation and discovery of technologies and strategies to improve the agri-environmental performance of the sector.

Environmental Knowledge, Technology, Information and Measurement

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
672	59.8	672	56.2	672	28.5
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Agriculture and agri-food sector makes decisions that incorporate sound environmental practices		Percentage of farms in Canada which have a formal Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) Note: the 2006 Farm Environmental Management Survey (FEMS) results indicate that 27% of all farms had an EFP. Next FEMS survey is planned for 2012		34% by Mar 31, 2013
		AAFC leads on FSDS target 3.6: Fresh Water Quality (agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector), which will be measured by the FSDS indicator: Water Quality and Soil Quality Agri-Environmental Performance Indices		Achieve a value between 81 to 100 on the Water Quality and Soil Quality Agri-Environmental Performance Indices by Mar 31, 2030

Planning Highlights

AAFC will continue to foster sector resilience to stresses and changes and help it to achieve long-term sustainability. New and innovative approaches in science and technology will enable the sector to deal with current and emerging challenges. Taking advantage of new opportunities such as climate change and the stability and quality of water resources, will increase agriculture’s positive impacts on the environment, minimize potential negative impacts and enhance profitability.

The Department will continue to improve the integration of scientific research and analysis to support agri-environmental policy, programming and expertise delivered to the sector. To achieve this, AAFC will increase collaboration and networking with key stakeholders, not only in Canada but around the world.

Enhanced integration will also be extended to tools used for measuring, reporting and verifying environmental performance. Decision-making tools will be used to continually assess the effectiveness of policies and programs, leading to necessary adjustments. These tools, for example, include: the National Agri-Environmental Health Analysis and Reporting Program; the Watershed Evaluation of Beneficial Management Practices; and the National Carbon and Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Verification System.

Initiatives within this Program Activity will also contribute to FSDS target 3.6: Fresh Water Quality (agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector), on which AAFC leads. This target supports the FSDS goal of Water Quality - protect and enhance the quality of water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems. AAFC initiatives to support the target include: targeting research and expanding networks of scientists to increase knowledge of water resources relative to agriculture; assessing and reporting on the environmental and economic impact of the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices by farmers; and increasing the understanding of the effectiveness of beneficial management practices (BMP) in an agricultural watershed setting and of the relationships between BMPs and agricultural land use activities. For details on these initiatives, please see AAFC’s Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.

Benefits for Canadians

AAFC contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment for all Canadians, not only by helping the sector minimize negative impacts on the environment, but also by assisting the sector to protect and conserve the natural resource base. Building on a solid foundation, the Department’s approach to key agri-environmental challenges such as climate change and water will be broadened to include the exploration of new options, partners and networks in Canada and abroad. This revised approach will strengthen the integration of these activities and actions, resulting in improved environmental performance of the sector. In turn, this outcome will contribute to a better quality of life for all Canadians.

Program Activity 1.2: On-Farm Action

Program Activity Summary

AAFC supports farmers through direct on-farm programming that identifies environmental risks and opportunities and promotes the continuous growth of the stewardship ethic within the agriculture and agri-food industry. AAFC supports farmers through agri-environmental risk assessment and planning; providing expertise, information and incentives to increase the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices at the farm and landscape levels; investigating and developing new approaches that encourage and support the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices; and increasing the recognition of the value of sustainable agriculture practices. This program supports environmental stewardship and helps reduce the sector’s overall impact on the environment. It contributes to a cleaner environment and healthier living conditions for Canadians, and a more profitable agriculture sector.

On-Farm Action

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
407	156.8	407	134.8	407	59.0
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Improved agri-environmental risk assessment and risk mitigation by agricultural producers		Percentage of farms in Canada taking action on their Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)		92% by Mar 31, 2013 (The 2006 Farm Environmental Management Survey (FEMS) results indicate that 90% of all farms had implemented at least 1 BMP. Next FEMS survey is planned for 2012)
		AAFC leads on FSDS target 3.6: Fresh Water Quality (agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector), will be measured by the FSDS indicator: Water Quality and Soil Quality Agri-Environmental Performance Indices		Achieve a value between 81 to 100 on the Water Quality and Soil Quality Agri-Environmental Performance Indices by Mar 31, 2030

Planning Highlights

AAFC will support the on-farm needs of the agriculture and agri-food sector through agri-environmental policies, programs, expertise, and services. The Department will continue to promote ongoing education about environmental challenges and opportunities important to farmers. It will foster new and enhanced relationships with federal, provincial, municipal, and non-government partners. This collaborative approach will ensure that AAFC’s agri-environmental services are demonstrably aligned to the sector’s needs and that key stakeholders are engaged in policy and program development.

AAFC will also explore new and innovative approaches such as guidance and mapping technologies which allow farmers to vary the rates of crop nutrients applied across fields to match crop needs. These actions, among others, will help position the sector to better adapt to emerging environmental challenges and take advantage of related opportunities.

Initiatives within this Program Activity will also contribute to FSDS target 3.6: Fresh Water Quality (agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector), on which AAFC leads. This target supports the FSDS goal of Water Quality - protect and enhance the quality of water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems. AAFC initiatives to support the target include: providing a systematic approach to farmers to assess priority environmental risks, to develop risk mitigation plans and implement on-farm actions; and increasing the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices at farm and landscape levels. For details on these initiatives, please see AAFC’s Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.

Benefits for Canadians

Canadian farmers are contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment through on-farm action such as implementing technologies to very accurately apply and place nutrients needed by a crop, eliminating any excess nutrients that could potentially run-off into water bodies. AAFC will continue to support producers in this regard through on-farm support in the form of expertise, new and enhanced partnerships, and new and innovative approaches. As the environmental stewardship ethic grows, the sector’s positive impacts on the environment will be enhanced and competitiveness improved.

Strategic Outcome 2: A competitive agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector that proactively manages risk

Canada’s capacity to produce, process and distribute safe, healthy, high-quality and viable agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products is dependent on its ability to proactively manage and minimize risks and to expand domestic and global markets for the sector by meeting and exceeding consumer demands and expectations. Proactive risk management to ensure food safety, market development and responsiveness, and improved regulatory processes contribute directly to the economic stability and prosperity of Canadian farmers and provide greater security for the Canadian public regarding the sector.

This Strategic Outcome comprises the following Program Activities, which are described in the subsequent discussion of Expected Results, Planning Highlights and Benefits to Canadians:

Program Activities
2.1 Business Risk Management	2.2 Food Safety and Biosecurity Risk Management Systems	2.3 Trade and Market Development	2.4 Regulatory Efficiency Facilitation	2.5 Farm Products Council of Canada

Program Activity 2.1: Business Risk Management

Program Activity Summary

AAFC has a comprehensive business risk management program to better equip producers with the tools and capacity to manage business risks. This program provides coverage for small income declines, margin-based support for larger income losses, a disaster relief framework for rapid assistance to producers, and production insurance to protect farmers against production losses due to uncontrollable natural hazards. In addition, producers can receive assistance through the provision of financial guarantees which facilitates the marketing of producers' products when market conditions and prices may be more favourable.

Business Risk Management

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
482	1,899.2	471	878.6	460	879.2
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Producers' income losses are reduced		Current year producers' net market income (NMI) plus BRM payments compared to the previous five-year average NMI plus BRM payments for the sector. Target is 85% of the previous five year average plus BRM payments		85% by Mar 31, 2012

Planning Highlights

AAFC, together with provincial and territorial governments, developed the BRM suite of programs under the Growing Forward policy framework. The overall aim is to reduce producers' income losses resulting from factors beyond their control. Each of the programs within the suite, AgriInvest, AgriStability, AgriRecovery and AgriInsurance, has its own objective in meeting the overall result, with the individual program performance tracked through measures and targets. Together, the programs assist producers in managing risk by reducing income losses due to factors beyond their control.

Growing Forward is scheduled to expire in March 2013. It is expected that the next generation of BRM programming will be launched at the same time as the other programming as part of a new policy framework for agriculture. During the upcoming year, AAFC will work with the provinces, territories and industry stakeholders to develop the next policy framework. Industry engagement, which began in the spring of 2010, will continue to identify sector priorities and will inform the policy development. Further engagement sessions are planned for 2011 and 2012. In addition, development of the next generation of BRM programming will also be informed by AAFC evaluations of AgriInvest, AgriStability, AgriRecovery and AgriInsurance, which are currently under way and are targeted for completion by March 2012.

Under AgriInvest, producers can use funds accumulated in their accounts to cover small income losses or for investments to improve their farms’ profitability. Producers deposit up to 1.5% of their allowable net sales into their AgriInvest account and receive matching government contributions, which are cost-shared 60:40 between the Government of Canada and the provinces. The delivery of AgriInvest producer accounts through financial institutions was launched in July 2010 in all provinces except Quebec. Producers are now able to make a deposit at the financial institution of their choice and receive the matching government contributions. The financial institution accounts provide producers with easier access to their account balances and a competitive rate of interest on their deposits. In Quebec, La Financière agricole administers AgriInvest and will continue to hold program accounts for producers in that province.

AgriStability stabilizes producers' incomes against large losses (relative to their historical income) due to reasons beyond their control. Effective January, 2010, British Columbia and Saskatchewan assumed delivery of the AgriStability program. The Department continues to work closely with the two provinces to help ensure a smooth transition in meeting the needs of producers.

AgriRecovery was designed to enable governments, in consultation with industry and producers, to assess and respond to natural disasters, on a case-by-case basis. This includes assessing the impact on producers, analysing how existing programs are responding, and, where additional assistance is warranted, developing cost-shared initiatives (60:40 federal-provincial) to help producers recover.

AgriInsurance provides farmers with affordable, predictable and timely protection against production and asset losses due to uncontrollable natural hazards. AgriInsurance is a provincially delivered program to which the federal government contributes a portion of total premiums and administrative costs. Under the program, producers pay premiums to protect their commodities. Producers get a payment when they experience a production loss during the year. In 2011-12, government officials will continue to work with the livestock and poultry sectors where there is a demand and a need for insurance-type products.

In addition, the BRM suite of programs is complemented by two loan guarantee programs: the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) and the Advance Payments Program (APP). The CALA program provides a guarantee on asset-based loans intended for the establishment, improvement and development of farms or the processing, distribution and marketing of products by farming cooperatives.

The APP is a federal guaranteed loan program governed by the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act (AMPA). The APP provides producers with a cash advance on the value of their agricultural products during a specified period. Producers can receive a cash advance from an eligible administrator for up to $400,000, of which the first $100,000 is interest-free. As producers sell their agricultural product, they repay the advance with the interest-free portion repaid first. By improving their cash flow throughout the year, the APP helps crop and livestock producers meet their financial obligations and benefit from the best market conditions.

A review of AMPA is currently underway as required by legislation. In addition to this review, AAFC will be evaluating the administrative aspects of programs delivered under the AMPA. Both the review and the evaluation are targetted for completion in 2011-12.

Benefits for Canadians

Agricultural producers face multiple, often simultaneous, sources of risk such as weather, market prices, disease, barriers to trade and more. Hence governments need to provide support to help producers deal with these short-term challenges beyond their control. Program payments are the main mechanism through which the Canadian and provincial governments provide direct financial support to producers.

BRM programs help producers maintain their productive capacity during short-term disruptions to their income and provide support while they take action to adapt to new production or market realities. By assisting producers to effectively mitigate business risk, BRM programs allow them to adopt new technologies, new production practices and business practices and remain competitive in global and domestic markets.

Supported by effective BRM programs, producers can focus on seeking out new opportunities to produce safe and innovative food and non-food products for consumers at home and around the world.

Program Activity 2.2: Food Safety and Biosecurity Risk Management Systems

Program Activity Summary

AAFC supports producers and organizations in the development and implementation of food safety, biosecurity and traceability risk management systems to prevent and control risks to the animal and plant resource base thus strengthening the sector against widespread diseases and losses in domestic and foreign markets. The risk management systems are national, government-recognized on-farm and/or post-farm Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) or HACCP-based food safety systems, National Biosecurity Systems, and a National Agriculture and Food Traceability System. These systems also support emergency management to limit the spread of animal and plant diseases, thereby reducing economic, environmental and social impacts of a crisis. A National Animal and Plant Biosecurity Strategy provides overall policy direction ensuring efforts are targeted at the highest possible biosecurity risks. Eligible recipients include national or regional non-profit organizations, producers and industry stakeholders.

Food Safety and Biosecurity Risk Management Systems

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
340	101.2	340	87.0	340	20.5
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Increased safety of the food systems		Percentage of producers participating in HACCP based programs reporting adoption of food safety practices		45% by Mar 31, 2013 (The 2005 survey showed a level of participation of 28% for HACCP based programs and in the 2008 survey it was 39%)

Planning Highlights

While authorities for Growing Forward and associated programs are scheduled to end March 2013, it is anticipated the FPT governments will enter into a new framework with programs ready for 2013-14, including programs to support food safety, biosecurity and traceability objectives. Some initiatives not funded under Growing Forward, such as those under the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, could continue until the end of 2013-14.

Under Growing Forward, AAFC will continue to provide support to develop farm-level national biosecurity standards. Through a memorandum of understanding with AAFC, which also includes work on food safety and traceability, these standards are being developed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) with input from national commodity groups, provinces and territories, and stakeholders.

As outlined in its Science and Innovation Strategy, AAFC's research is enhancing knowledge and understanding of the causal agents of potential and emerging threats to Canada's food production and distribution systems. The Department is also developing strategies and practices to detect, monitor and control hazards throughout the food chain and to reduce health risks based on integrated knowledge of production and processing systems with respect to biological and chemical hazards.

Under Growing Forward, AAFC is collaborating with university and industry partners to develop on-farm technologies for long-term animal and plant health protection, as well as risk-mitigation strategies.

Also under Growing Forward, the Department is providing financial incentives to national organizations for on-farm and post-farm HACCP or HACCP-based food safety systems. These systems establish basic operating principles to be followed for consistently safe food. Once developed, these systems are available to producers and non-federally registered food-processing enterprises. System implementation of food safety programs is administered by the provinces and territories under Growing Forward.

AAFC is working with partners to accelerate the National Agriculture and Food Traceability System to ensure a country-wide, integrated approach. In 2009, governments agreed to work toward a national mandatory traceability system, beginning with livestock and poultry, with an implementation target of 2011. Work is under way to develop a new legislative and regulatory framework and identify business requirements for a national information-sharing solution. This will provide access to traceability information collection systems put in place by the industry organizations. AAFC is continuing to help industry develop traceability systems and support the CFIA under Growing Forward to achieve this regulatory change.

The Protection of the Food Supply initiative will continue to assist the agricultural sector to adapt to pressures and improve its competitiveness by funding non-business risk management measures that reduce costs of production, improve environmental sustainability, promote innovation, and respond to market changes.

The Livestock Auction Traceability Initiative is providing up to $20 million through the AgriFlexibility Fund. This federally delivered initiative will provide contributions to update animal handling structures to enhance traceability at high-risk, high-throughput sites where animals from different herds co-mingle.

Benefits for Canadians

Government-recognized and science-based food safety, biosecurity and traceability practices, tools and systems at the farm and agri-business levels will help prevent the spread of animal and plant diseases. This will reduce costs associated with responses to disease outbreaks, help continue and enhance market access, and allow the sector to better respond to increasing demands for assurances of food safety. In turn, this will strengthen domestic and international consumers' confidence in Canada as a source for safe products.

Program Activity 2.3: Trade and Market Development

Program Activity Summary

AAFC acts as Canada’s agricultural trade advocate, working to break down trade barriers at home and abroad and expand opportunities for the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector. AAFC assists the sector in identifying new domestic and global opportunities, markets and ways to enhance productivity, competitiveness and prosperity. AAFC also works to distinguish Canadian products under Brand Canada International and the Domestic Branding Strategy to expand and deepen the sector’s strengths in the marketplace.

Trade and Market Development

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
425	139.1	425	114.9	425	60.9
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Increased agricultural sector market development and access		Growth in total exports of agriculture and food to $40 billion (1997 dollars)		$40 billion by Mar 31, 2013

Planning Highlights

In 2011-12 and beyond, AAFC will focus on transforming the strengths of Canada's agriculture, agri-food and agri-based sector into success in domestic and global markets by helping it anticipate and manage risks inherent in trading agri-food products in foreign markets. AAFC's Canada Brand initiative in support of market development will include consumer-oriented promotional activities in at least three key international markets. This will help to build a sustained presence, create demand for Canadian products, and pave the way for industry's complementary activities. In addition, several Savour Canada promotional events may stimulate demand by creating interest and excitement around Canadian products among international media. Ongoing support will also be provided to industry at key trade shows to enhance the brand profile of Canadian agriculture and food products. Intelligence reports on market trends and conditions will again help industry plan marketing strategies.

A national branding initiative will be launched in 2011 to help domestic consumers more readily identify the Canadian content of food products at the retail level and better understand the attributes of these products. Research indicates this could benefit the domestic competitiveness of this country's agriculture and food industry.

Over the next three years, the Agriculture and Food Trade Commissioner Service (AFTCS) will continue to assist Canadian companies with technical and marketing support to establish or expand markets for Canadian agri-food and seafood products. The AFTCS is part of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) administered by Foreign Affairs and International Trade. A 2010 econometric study concluded that company clients who use Canada's TCS export 18% more by value than non-TCS clients and also export to 36% more markets. The study also found that, for every tax dollar spent on the TCS, Canadian exports increased by $27.

The AgriMarketing Program will fund industry associations, including associations in the fish and seafood sector, to help implement performance measurement and long-term branding strategies in international markets. Associations can also seek funding to allow small- and medium-sized enterprises to undertake company-specific market development and promotional activities, enhancing their capacity to compete in international markets.

In support of sector competitiveness, AAFC's market intelligence development and delivery program helps industry identify and understand target markets. A state-of-the-art business intelligence system provides the latest information as soon as it is available.

AAFC, through market access efforts, will co-ordinate government initiatives with producers and industry to aggressively and strategically go after priority markets. The Department will do this work through bilateral and regional trade policy negotiations, international standard-setting bodies, advocacy efforts with key trading partners, high-level missions, and resolution of market access issues.

The Department will lead agriculture trade negotiations at the World Trade Organization and at bilateral trade negotiations, notably with the European Union. It will advance Canada's agricultural interests by working towards rules that foster this country's competitiveness, create new export opportunities and protect supply-managed sectors. It will also advocate science-based and transparent regulatory systems, standards and processes, especially for novel products. AAFC will strive to ensure that Canada's international trade obligations are taken into account in domestic programs and policies to minimize risk of trade actions.

The Enabling Research for Competitive Agriculture (ERCA) program will help identify new opportunities, markets and ways to enhance productivity and competitiveness in global and domestic markets. ERCA members will help inform AAFC's policy development process for the successor of Growing Forward.

The Market Access Secretariat, established in 2009, will stay in the forefront of market access challenges and opportunities, ready to respond to urgencies by providing rapid support to high-level missions and market access initiatives. The effectiveness of the Secretariat is enhanced by the co-location of CFIA staff who continue to provide technical advice and expertise on issues related to the CFIA’s mandate.

Benefits for Canadians

Canada has a fundamental interest in expanding market access opportunities and in strengthening international trade rules to achieve a more level playing field for its producers and processors. Exports are extremely important to the profitability of this country’s agriculture and food sector. Increasing exports will lead to more jobs for Canadians, especially in processing and distribution.

The Domestic Canada Brand Initiative will provide industry with various tools—including the Canada Brand identifier (stylized maple leaf) and other graphic elements—to help develop promotional materials. This will help industry differentiate and brand their products as Canadian and make it easier for Canadian consumers to find Canadian food products on store shelves. As well, the website and in-store promotional events will help Canadian consumers learn about the advantages of buying Canadian food products.

Program Activity 2.4: Regulatory Efficiency Facilitation

Program Activity Summary

AAFC is undertaking initiatives to ensure that the regulatory environment promotes sector innovation, investment and competitiveness. The Department recognizes that with the rapid pace of technological advancement and emerging gaps between international and domestic regulatory policies, Canada’s regulatory environment will need to increase capacities and accelerate modernization to be responsive. The initiatives will involve working with stakeholders along the value chain to enhance their ability to fulfill regulatory requirements, and collaborating with federal partners and industry to find ways of streamlining the regulatory burden through targeted actions on sector priorities, while at the same time maintaining Canada’s strong regulatory system with respect to health and safety. Improving the timeliness and transparency of science-based regulatory decision-making will also contribute to improved public and stakeholder confidence.

Regulatory Efficiency Facilitation

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
57	35.9	57	36.0	57	12.8
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Increased minor-use pesticides, reduced-risk pest management tools, health claims, and novel foods and ingredients that are permissible or available for use		Number of regulatory policies that are changed to facilitate innovation in pest management, health claims, and novel foods and ingredients		5 by Mar 31, 2013
		Number of submissions for minor-use pesticides, health claims, novel foods and ingredients that meet regulatory requirements		45 annually by Mar 31, 2012
		Number of reduced-risk pest management tools available for use		4 annually by Mar 31, 2012

Planning Highlights

In keeping with the Cabinet Directive on Streamlining Regulation, AAFC will strive to improve the sector's ability to work within the regulatory system, and enhance the capacity of regulating bodies to respond to sector needs. Priorities include: minor use pesticides and pesticide risk reduction; veterinary drugs; health claims, novel foods and ingredients; and voluntary food fortification.

Under the Growing Forward Regulatory Action Plan, AAFC is helping industry understand and follow regulatory processes and requirements, including responding to scientific data requirements. Under the Plan, Health Canada is working to streamline regulatory processes and improve submission review times. In addition, Health Canada will be better positioned to develop policy and regulatory frameworks to address the sector's priorities while maintaining health and safety standards.

AAFC will continue to work with stakeholders to identify minor use pesticide solutions for pest problems and to develop strategies and associated action plans to reduce the risk of pesticides to human health and the environment. The Department will generate data on pesticide efficacy and residue, and crop tolerance to pesticides, as well as prepare submissions for new minor uses of pesticides. Health Canada will continue to review and evaluate the submissions developed by AAFC through a dedicated review process. The program will improve grower access to pest management tools including reduced-risk tools, technologies and practices. In addition, new uses of pesticides, including biocontrol agents, will contribute to pesticide resistance management.

To further strengthen the development and implementation of risk reduction strategies, and to increase access to minor use and reduced risk pesticides for agriculture and forestry, AAFC will continue to work with Health Canada (Pest Management Regulatory Agency) to address the findings of the evaluation of Building Public Confidence in Pesticide Regulation and Improving Access to Pest Management Products horizontal initiative, which is targeted for completion in 2011-12.

The Department will provide analysis and advice on domestic food regulatory issues that impact innovation and competitiveness in foods with health benefits. This includes helping stakeholders determine plans and priorities with respect to health claims, novel foods and ingredients based on market opportunities. AAFC will work with industry and the research community to increase awareness of the regulatory environment, establish science partnerships, and conduct research to address knowledge gaps to establish health-claim validity and novel-ingredient safety. The Department will also help stakeholders to complete substantiated regulatory submissions.

Benefits for Canadians

AAFC will improve crop protection practices and provide access to new reduced-risk technologies, tools and practices, and minor use pest control products. This will boost the competitiveness of Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector, prevent trade barriers with countries where these products are already available, and reduce risk to the environment and Canadians.

The Department's activities related to health claims, novel foods and ingredients will assist the sector to navigate the regulatory system. This will lead to new, innovative and safe food products with a focus on health benefits that are available to Canadians.

Program Activity 2.5: Farm Products Council of Canada

Program Activity Summary

Established through the Farm Products Agencies Act, the Farm Products Council of Canada (FPCC) is a unique public interest oversight body that reports to Parliament through the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. The Act provides for the creation of national marketing agencies and promotion research agencies. The FPCC supervises these agencies by ensuring that the supply management system for poultry and eggs and the check-off system for beef cattle work in the balanced interest of all stakeholders, from producers to consumers. The FPCC is also an active proponent of portfolio management by providing advice to the Minister and maintaining relationships with provincial governments.

Farm Products Council of Canada

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
24	2.7	24	2.7	24	2.8
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Canadian producers maintain their relative share of the Canadian market for hatching eggs, chicken, turkey and eggs		The relative market share of Canadian producers of the Canadian market for hatching eggs, chicken, turkey and eggs remains above 80% throughout the year		Above 80% during 2011-12
Variations in consumer prices for chicken, eggs and turkey are consistent with those of other agricultural products		Consumer Price Index (CPI) variations for chicken, turkey and eggs are within 10% of those of the CPI for other agricultural products throughout the year		Within the plus or minus 10% of the variation of the CPI for other agricultural products during 2011-12

Planning Highlights

The FPCC will continue to supervise the Canadian Beef Cattle Research Market Development and Promotion Agency, Canadian Hatching Egg Producers, Chicken Farmers of Canada, Egg Farmers of Canada, and Turkey Farmers of Canada.

In line with its 2009-12 Strategic Plan, the FPCC will help Canadian producers maintain their domestic market shares for poultry and eggs, as well as proactively manage risk. To do so, FPCC will continue to improve its working relationship and communications with the agencies it supervises, foster the establishment of new promotion research agencies and improve its internal processes to enhance client service. The FPCC will also improve its knowledge base and capacity to influence solutions as well as its interactions with industry and provincial governments.

Benefits for Canadians

The supply management system was established in response to price volatility and revenue uncertainty faced by agricultural producers. The FPCC supervises national marketing agencies that are not subject to the Competition Act. It provides checks and balances to ensure that supply management systems for poultry and eggs, and the check-off system for beef cattle, work in the balanced interest of all stakeholders, from producers to consumers. With the help of FPCC oversight, Canadian consumers can rely on a consistent supply of quality poultry and egg products at a reasonable price.

Strategic Outcome 3: An innovative agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector

Sector innovation includes the development and commercialization of value-added agricultural-based products, knowledge-based production systems, processes and technologies, and equipping the sector with improved business and management skills and strategies to capture opportunities and to manage change. Such innovation is vital for ongoing growth and improvement in the productivity, profitability, competitiveness, and sustainability of Canada's agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector and its rural communities.

This Strategic Outcome comprises the following Program Activities, which are described in the subsequent discussion of Expected Results, Planning Highlights and Benefits to Canadians:

Program Activities
3.1 Science, Innovation and Adoption	3.2 Agri-Business Development	3.3 Rural and Co-operatives Development	3.4 Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency

Program Activity 3.1: Science, Innovation and Adoption

Program Activity Summary

AAFC contributes to the competitiveness of the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector by supporting innovation designed to improve profitability in new and existing products, services, processes and markets. Coordinated and informed decision-making is supported with strategic foresight, research, and information sharing contributing to integrated planning engaging industry, government and academia. Collaborative action is promoted to accelerate the flow of science and technology along the innovation continuum in support of industry defined strategies for future success. Farmers, agri-entrepreneurs and agri-based small- and medium-sized enterprises are supported in their efforts to adopt new technologies and commercialize new products and services. Pathfinding and transformational research help to define future opportunities and prepare the sector for emerging opportunities and challenges.

Science, Innovation and Adoption

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
1,473	285.4	1,473	304.4	1,473	159.8
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Agriculture and agri-food sector that utilizes science to improve or transform commodities into new value-added products		Increase in Agriculture Net value-added ("value-added" is a Statistics Canada measure of Canadian value-added gross domestic product) Baseline is Agriculture Net value added in 2008 which was $15.5 million		$16.6 million by Mar 31, 2014 Target represents a 7% increase

Planning Highlights

AAFC will encourage industry leadership and investment in science and innovation. Through programs such as Growing Canadian Agri-innovations, AAFC supports collaborative, industry-led responses to new and emerging issues and opportunities. AAFC works with its partners to encourage farmers, entrepreneurs, agri-based companies, and bio-products and biofuels facilities to adopt new technologies and commercialize new products and services.

AAFC will provide support to agri-science clusters and to agri-businesses to help develop innovative agricultural products. The Department has completed the first of a series of Agri-Investment Symposiums that bring together agri-entrepreneurs and potential investors.

Through discussions on the next agricultural policy framework, ongoing events designed to help the sector anticipate future challenges and opportunities, and evaluations of strategic collaborations, AAFC will continue to explore collaborations between the private and public sectors within the innovation system.

The Department will help advance a vibrant bio-economy by developing biopesticides, industrial crops, biochemical and bioprocessing technologies, biofuels and bioenergy, biochemicals, and bio-based materials. It will also play a role in expanding the understanding of the links among food, nutrition, health, and wellness. This will help farmers and food processors develop innovative products in the areas of functional foods, nutraceuticals and natural health products. Further information on the Science and Innovation Strategy is available at: http://www.agr.gc.ca/scienceandinnovation.

AAFC will continue to encourage agricultural producer participation in the emerging bio-fuel industry, in part, by enlarging its networks of industry leaders to ensure that opportunities for value-added projects are captured.

AAFC conducts lessons-learned exercises on all of its programs and also incorporates the results of internal evaluations to enhance the continued improvement of the management and delivery of science. AAFC will continue to consider administrative, technical, schedule, and cost risks (e.g., program ramp-up time, potential impacts of economic fluctuations, and cost and duration of innovation projects) in program design and in the development of performance measurement strategies.

Benefits for Canadians

AAFC provides knowledge required for innovation in a Canadian context. Innovation, along with private sector investment, is a key driver in the commercialization of new and value-added agricultural products. Encouraging industry innovation and investment in scientific research and development will reduce the time needed for new products, practices and processes to reach the market. These investments will pay off in new economic opportunities for farmers, agri-businesses and Canadian communities.

Program Activity 3.2: Agri-Business Development

Program Activity Summary

AAFC builds awareness of the benefits and encourages the use of sound business management practices, while also enabling businesses in the sector to be profitable and invest where needed to manage the natural resource base sustainably and to market and produce safe food and other products. The Agri-Business Development program funds provincial and territorial activities related to business management practices and skills that: strengthen the capacity of businesses in the sector to assess the financial implications of business improvements, including the impact of environmental plans, food safety systems and innovation projects on their business profitability; manage transformation, respond to change and adopt innovation in business operations; help agri-business owners understand their financial situation, implement effective action and business management plans/practices and provide for enhanced participation by young or new entrants, First Nations clients, and clients in specific sub-sectors in transition.

Agri-Business Development

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
42	87.9	42	51.3	42	7.8
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Increased realization of business goals		Percentage of participating businesses in Agri-Business Development program activities meeting their business/career goals		55% by Mar 31, 2013

Planning Highlights

AAFC will continue to fund cost-shared provincial and territorial activities related to business management practices and skills designed to help agribusinesses:

• assess the financial implications of business improvements, including the impact of environmental plans, food safety systems and innovation projects on their business profitability;
• research and implement improved processing of specified risk material;
• manage transformation, respond to change, and adopt innovation in their operations; and
• understand their financial situation, implement effective action and business management plans and practices for farm operations, and help producers benchmark their farm performance.

In addition, the Department will strive to enhance participation in farming by young or new entrants and First Nations clients, as well as provide assistance to farmers in specific sub-sectors in transition.

AAFC will provide support to national organizations to foster the development of business management tools and information designed to increase competitiveness, innovation and risk management. Tools and information will be targeted to youth and new entrants. Should there be a decision to renew programs designed to support national organizations, AAFC will take into account the results of the evaluation of renewal funding provided to national organizations, completed in March 2010. AAFC will take steps to strengthen future performance measures, to ensure that program results can be monitored, measured and reported.

The Department will provide financial counseling and mediation services to farmers who may be having trouble repaying debts, bringing producers and creditors together with a mediator to reach mutually acceptable repayment agreements.

Red meat packing and processing plants will benefit from repayable contributions through the Slaughter Improvement Program to support investments to reduce costs, increase revenues, or otherwise improve the operations of federally registered plants.

AAFC will provide support for agricultural internships for young people who are unemployed or under-employed and who have studied in an agriculture-related area following high school as part of the Career Focus Program.

Benefits for Canadians

Agri-business development initiatives contribute to an innovative agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector. This, in turn, strengthens Canadian economic growth, while improving stewardship and food safety, and expanding the availability of agri-based products for Canadians. As a result of these initiatives, sector participants will be in a better position to manage change, resulting in increased profits, sustainability and competitiveness.

Program Activity 3.3: Rural and Co-operatives Development

Program Activity Summary

Rural and Co-operatives Development supports community development through two distinct components: first, it leads an integrated, government-wide approach, called Canada’s Rural Partnership, through which the government aims to coordinate its policies towards the goal of economic and social development and renewal of rural Canada. It develops partnerships with federal departments, provincial and rural stakeholders and offers tools to enable rural communities to use their innovative capacity to capture the value of local amenities, and to achieve greater local or regional economic competitiveness. Second, it facilitates the development of co-operatives as an effective self-help tool for Canadians and communities to address their needs and capture economic opportunities. It provides advice across government on policies and programs affecting co-operatives and builds partnerships within the federal government and with the co-operative sector, the provinces and other key stakeholders to support the development of co-operatives.

Rural and Co-operatives Development

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
94	25.0	94	20.2	94	5.2
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
New economic activities are being developed in rural communities		Number of communities that identified and assessed their local natural and cultural amenities		25 (for the year) by Mar 31, 2012
Canadians are better able to utilize the co-operative model to meet their economic and social needs		Number of co-operatives created		40 (for the year) by Mar 31, 2012

Planning Highlights

AAFC, through Canada's Rural Partnership (CRP), will continue its work with government and non-government organizations to foster innovative rural development. Over the next two years, the CRP will help communities identify and assess their local natural and cultural amenities, and address barriers and challenges to development, with a view to enhancing competitiveness and increasing economic activities.

AAFC will assist rural communities in the tobacco-growing region of Ontario through the Community Development Fund (CDF) to transition to a non-tobacco-based economy. The CDF will provide assistance to community initiatives that support local development, attract investment, stimulate business, retain jobs and create new ones.

The Department will work in close partnership with the co-operative sector to develop more co-ops and implement innovative projects. The Co-operative Development Initiative will make the co-op option more readily available to Canadians.

The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2012 as the International Year of Co-operatives. Planning is under way, in conjunction with the co-op sector, for activities in 2012 to celebrate and enhance the positive impact of co-operatives on Canada's social and economic fabric.

Performance will be measured through follow-up on partnership activities, either with government or NGOs, that supported relevant rural community-driven initiatives, including initiatives funded through the Community Development Program. Performance measures will also be derived through a strategy to further document the impact of CRP partnership activities in 15 to 20 rural regions across Canada, selected to represent a range of community socio-economic conditions and capacities. As well, as part of its third-party delivery arrangement with the co-op sector, a clear strategy has been established for measuring the impact of the co-op development support in terms of new co-op creation. A similar approach is taken with respect to the CDF, which is using a third-party delivery approach.

Benefits for Canadians

Canada's rural communities will have better access to information, tools and services for innovative rural development, creating benefits from economic opportunities and supporting the innovation and growth of the sector. Canadians will have greater access to the services and information necessary to launch or expand co-operatives. This will generate opportunities for innovation and economic growth.

Program Activity 3.4: Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency

Program Activity Summary

Section 204 of the Criminal Code of Canada designates the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food as the individual responsible for the policy and regulatory functions pertaining to pari-mutuel wagering on horse races. The Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA) is a special operating agency within AAFC that regulates and supervises pari-mutuel betting on horse racing at racetracks across Canada, with the objective of ensuring that pari-mutuel betting is conducted in a way that is fair to the betting public. Costs associated with the activities of the CPMA are recovered through a levy on every dollar bet on horse races in Canada. The levy is currently set at eight-tenths of a cent of every dollar bet. CPMA's strategic plans are focussed on regulating and supervising pari-mutuel wagering on horse races in the most modern, effective and transparent manner.

Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
53	0.0	53	(0.1)	53	(0.0)
Expected Results		Performance Indicators		Targets
Pari-mutuel betting is conducted in a way that is fair to the Canadian betting public		Percentage of compliance with the Pari-Mutuel Betting Supervision Regulations of Canadian racetracks and betting theatres inspected by CPMA officers		100% by Mar 31, 2012

Figures that cannot be listed in millions of dollars are shown as 0.0.

Planning Highlights

The CPMA will approve and inspect pari-mutuel betting activities at licensed racetracks and betting theatres across Canada.

The Agency will help implement the amended Pari-Mutuel Betting Supervision Regulations through outreach activities that promote understanding and compliance with the new regulatory requirements and policies.

The CPMA will no longer provide services that are not part of its core mandate, such as photo-finish and video-patrol services at racetracks. This will allow the CPMA to focus its limited financial resources on activities more closely aligned with its mandate of ensuring the integrity of pari-mutuel betting.

The Agency will continue to provide equine drug control programs that help ensure race outcomes are not influenced by the inappropriate administration of drugs or medications to race horses.

Benefits for Canadians

Canadians can be assured that pari-mutuel betting is consistent with the governing regulations, and that all reasonable steps are taken so that betting on horse races is conducted in a fair and equitable manner.

Program Activity 4.1: Internal Services

Program Activity Summary

Internal Services are groups of related activities and resources that are administered to support all Strategic Outcomes and the needs of programs and other corporate obligations of the Department. Only those activities and resources that apply across the Department, and not those provided specifically to a program, are included. Internal Services consists of the following groups of activities:

• Management and Oversight, which include: Strategic Policy and Government Relations; Program/Service Management; Planning, Performance and Reporting; and Internal Audit and Evaluation; Communications Services; and Legal Services;
• Resource Management Services, which include: Human Resources Management Services; Financial Management Services; Information Management Services; Information Technology Services; and Travel and Other Administrative Services; and
• Asset Management Services, which include: Real Property Services; Materiel Services; and Acquisition Services.

Internal Services

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents - FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions - Net)
2011-12		2012-13		2013-14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
2,154	306.0	2,154	303.8	2,154	271.7

Planning highlights of key Internal Service activities are described in the chart below:

Internal Service	Planning Highlights
Greening Government Operations	The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) includes theme IV (Shrinking the Environmental Footprint - Beginning with Government), which consists of a single goal, Greening Government Operations (GGO). Government-wide targets have been established to achieve this goal. For example, by March 31, 2014, each department will reuse or recycle all surplus electronic and electrical equipment in an environmentally sound and secure manner. The FSDS targets for GGO are particularly applicable to AAFC, which is a large federal custodian of buildings (2,360), land (940,000 hectares), fleet (1,200) and equipment ($213 million) with annual procurement of $250 million. AAFC operates this portfolio in order to deliver its programs and services, conduct agricultural and agri-food research across Canada, and achieve results for Canadians. As a large federal custodian, AAFC is commited to making progress towards the GGO targets. For additional details on AAFC's GGO activities, visit http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/rpp/2011-2012/info/info-eng.asp
Human Resources Management	Human resources (HR) planning is a key component of AAFC's integrated planning approach. It supports departmental Strategic Outcomes and the priorities described in Section I by identifying key human resources issues facing the Department over the next three years and developing the strategies to address them. Key issues identified include: projected gaps as the wave of 'baby boomer' retirements begins to crest; skill and knowledge gaps in key areas; and continued development of a diverse and inclusive workplace. Strategies to achieve the Department's goals in these areas include: an effective values-based staffing system that helps attract, develop, and retain employees at all levels; enhanced opportunities for career and skill development and continuous learning, with a focus on supervisory skills and competencies; and new leadership development and mentoring programs with employment equity components. A new three-year integrated HR plan will be developed during 2011-12 to address the subsequent three-year planning horizon. This new plan will adjust the departmental HR strategy and key initiatives based on new and emerging business and HR challenges.
Information Management and Information Technology (IM/IT)	AAFC will continue to invest strategically in IM/IT through collaborative efforts with other federal departments, strategic partnering and shared services. The Department follows the principles adopted in the federal government’s model for shared services, promoting and building upon effective and cost-efficient initiatives for services that provide value to the Canadian public. Some of the initiatives going forward in 2011-12 consist of providing financial systems services to Natural Resources Canada, and developing a system for managing human resources that will serve multiple departments, with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada as the pilot departments. Other partnership opportunities that are being explored include sharing of data centre and video conference facilities.
Internal Audit and Evaluation	AAFC will continue to implement its three-year Risk-Based Internal Audit Plan to assess the Department's risk management, control and governance processes. AAFC's Five-Year Evaluation Plan will continue to be implemented so that timely, credible, and neutral evidence is available on the ongoing relevance and performance of programs. This will be especially important to inform development of the next agriculture policy framework and to support reporting to Canadians, as will the actions AAFC is taking to enhance its performance measurement activities.
Service Delivery	AAFC strives to be a leader in the design and implementation of citizen-centred, responsive programs and services that contribute to a profitable and sustainable agriculture and agri-food sector. Projects and initiatives will be undertaken in the reporting period with partners and stakeholders in the following areas: Understanding the client: By profiling clients' needs, wants, perceptions, and behaviour, AAFC will be better able to deliver programs and services that address specific client requirements. Client satisfaction surveys and public opinion research will help focus efforts to improve service delivery; Communicating offerings: A web-based discovery tool, a new web portal and optimal use of government call centres will provide easier and timely access to information and services; and Enhancing and improving delivery with partners: Standardizing business practices and putting AAFC people and knowledge in those places where they can make more of a difference, especially to the environment, will result in improved service delivery. In addition, service standards will be increasingly integrated in AAFC's planning, reporting and performance management processes. Meeting service standards and targets demonstrates that the Department is responsive to the needs of taxpayers and benefits recipients. This helps establish credibility of its operations and contributes to increasing the level of confidence that Canadians can place in government.

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