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Transport Canada has four strategic outcomes that reflect the long-term and enduring benefits to Canadians that stem from its mandate and vision. As the department strives towards these outcomes, progress can be reported in relation to expected results,[6] performance indicators[7] and targets,[8] as set out in Transport Canada’s Program Activity Architecture for 2010-2011.
The department uses qualitative and quantitative indicators, also called “performance measures,” to determine the results achieved in terms of strategic outcomes and expected results. Using a systematic method to develop, communicate, monitor and report performance information provides a uniform foundation to achieve these outcomes. In an effort to better report on results of activities, and to demonstrate value to Canadians, the department will continue to strengthen performance indicators in its Performance Measurement Framework.
This section provides detailed analyses of the department’s performance at the program activity level, by strategic outcome.
Status | Definition |
---|---|
Exceeded |
More than 100 percent of the expected level of performance (as evidenced by the indicator and target or planned activities and outputs) for the expected result identified in the corresponding Report on Plans and Priorities was achieved during the fiscal year. |
Met All | One hundred percent of the expected level of performance (as evidenced by the indicator and target or planned activities and expected outputs) for the expected result identified in the corresponding Report on Plans and Priorities was achieved during the fiscal year. |
Mostly Met | Eighty to 99 percent of the expected level of performance (as evidenced by the indicator and target or planned activities and expected outputs) for the expected result identified in the corresponding Report on Plans and Priorities was achieved during the fiscal year. |
Somewhat Met | Sixty to 79 percent of the expected level of performance (as evidenced by the indicator and target or planned activities and outputs) for the expected result identified in the corresponding Report on Plans and Priorities was achieved during the fiscal year. |
Not Met | Less than 60 percent of the expected level of performance (as evidenced by the indicator and target or planned activities and outputs) for the expected result identified in the corresponding Report on Plans and Priorities was achieved during the fiscal year. |
In Progress | The indicator was under review during the 2010-2011 fiscal year; therefore performance data is not available at the time of this report. |
An Efficient Transportation System is supported by four organizational priorities and contributes to three Government of Canada outcomes: A Fair and Secure Marketplace, Strong Economic Growth, and An Innovative and Knowledge-based Economy.
The following provides a detailed analysis of performance against expected results, as committed to in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities, for each of the four program activities that support this strategic outcome:
Description: The Transportation Marketplace Frameworks program activity encourages transportation efficiency by fostering a competitive and viable transportation sector. Program activities include setting the regimes governing the economic behaviour of carriers in all modes of transportation; setting the rules of governance for all the transportation infrastructure providers falling under the authority of Parliament; monitoring the transportation system; and representing the interests of Canada in international transportation fora and other international bodies.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
9 | 11 | 10 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
66 | 63 | 3 |
Expected Results | Performance Indicators | Targets | Performance Status and Summary |
---|---|---|---|
A competitive and financially viable transportation sector through effective transporta-tion marketplace frameworks | Number of founded Canadian Transpor-tation Agency competitiveness complaints | By 2011, a five-per-cent reduction in the number of founded Canadian Transporta-tion Agency competitiveness complaints. | Unable to Assess. This indicator is under review. |
In 2010-2011, under the Blue Sky International air policy, Canada concluded open skies agreements with Jamaica, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, and Brazil, along with a first-time agreement with Qatar. Agreements with Egypt, Algeria and Japan were expanded. These new and expanded agreements allow air carriers to launch new services, enhancing convenience for travellers and shippers.
Domestic and international partnerships have been created to promote short sea shipping and mitigate barriers to its optimized use across the country and North America. Notably, working through the Trilateral Short Sea Shipping Working Group, Transport Canada, the U.S. and Mexico are taking steps to address barriers that have been identified and to explore joint opportunities.
In March 2011, the government released the final report from the Rail Freight Service Review Panel, and announced its response to the Panel’s recommendations. The government will proceed to implement a series of measures to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency and reliability of the entire rail freight supply chain. Transport Canada supports this process, with its first priority being to establish a facilitation process between stakeholders to negotiate a template service agreement and a streamlined commercial dispute resolution process.
Finally, Transport Canada continues to monitor the performance of Canada’s transportation sectors, their viability, competitiveness and impact on the economy, using various data sources. In 2010:
The Department also monitors the financial viability of Canada’s largest airports on an annual basis. As private not-for-profit entities, Canadian airport authorities continue to adapt to the challenges posed by their varied stakeholder groups in ever-changing socio-economic environments.
Making the transportation sector more reliable, efficient and accessible supports both national and international trade and travel. It also provides Canadians with greater choice and convenience in their transportation services.
Description: Guided by the National Policy Framework for Strategic Gateways and Trade Corridors and Trade Corridors, the Gateways and Corridors program activity aims at supporting Canada’s international trade and international supply chains by creating more efficient, reliable and seamless trade-related transport systems in Canada. The program activity sets strategies and frameworks for improving and integrating transportation networks in key regions; fosters partnerships between all levels of government and the private sector; supports and oversees projects that contribute to the increased capacity and efficiency of gateway and corridor infrastructure; develops and puts in place measures that remove impediments to the effective development of gateways and corridors; and promotes the use of gateways and corridors.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
812 | 805 | 243 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
51 | 84 | 33 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
An enhanced level of trade through Canada’s strategic gateways and trade corridors | Volume of trade | To be determined once a baseline trade projection is obtained from the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade or Trade Commission. |
Status: In Progress In 2010-2011, the Asia Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative increased the gateway’s share of North America-bound container imports from Asia by 30 percent. Between 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, the value of Canada’s international trade grew by 12.8 percent, nearly regaining pre-recession levels from 2008-2009. Assessing the impact of gateway project investments and other measures, on trade volumes and values is a long-term undertaking that the department can assess only when projects are complete and operational. |
Most of the $2-billion Gateways and Border Crossings Fund has been committed. In 2010-2011 alone, we announced 16 infrastructure projects under this program. The government invested in the core National Highway System, major border crossings, as well as key marine ports and airports to make Canada’s transportation network safer, more efficient and more secure for international trade and travel. Transport Canada continued to implement the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative on a number of fronts. Canada’s commitment to multimodal infrastructure projects in Western Canada led to the signing of two agreements covering six projects, four of which began construction in 2010-2011. Links and efficiency of trade between North American industrial centres and markets in Europe and Asia will improve due to initiatives such:
The Government of Canada has also strengthened international partnerships by signing the Memorandum of Understanding on Trade Logistics Cooperation and the Action Plan for Gateway Cooperation with the Government of China. Canada collaborated with international partners in establishing a new international organization, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Port Services Network, with headquarters in China.
Finally, work continues with the State of Michigan, the U.S. federal government and the Province of Ontario to advance the Windsor-Detroit Crossing project. Given the importance of this new crossing to the economic security and future prosperity of the U.S. and Canada, the Government of Canada sent a letter on April 29, 2010, to Michigan’s former governor stating that it was prepared to offer to increase its financial participation up to a maximum of $550M U.S. This increased equity into the project will cover project components in Michigan that would not be funded by the private sector or the United States Government. The Government of Canada would expect repayment from the anticipated toll revenues to be generated from the operation of the new bridge.
Implementing major infrastructure programs in partnership with other levels of government and the private sector highlights the value of regular communication with stakeholders and the importance of clear federal requirements regarding streamlined processes. Large and complex infrastructure programs and projects take time to develop, particularly as strategies evolve. This should be reflected in program/project expectations.
Description: The Transportation Infrastructure program activity looks after transportation infrastructure for Canada to improve efficiency and ensure service. It acts as the steward of certain commercial transportation assets operated by third parties on behalf of the federal government (e.g. airport authorities, port authorities, federal bridges, via Rail, Seaway Marine Atlantic Inc.); provides funding for Canada’s strategic transportation infrastructure, targeted to support federal objectives; supports essential services to some remote communities; manages legacy commitments; and divests assets and contracts out operations, where needed.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
310 | 322 | 282 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
304 | 293 | 11 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Modern transportation system |
Average age of transportation infrastructure |
Average age of highways and roads reduced by 0.5 years over five years. |
Status: Exceeded From 2009-2010 the average age of transportation infrastructure decreased from 13.9 years to 13.4 years, a reduction of 0.5 years. The value of gross capital stock at the end of 2010 was $184.9 billion (2002 dollars), an increase of 3.6 percent from $178.5 billion in 2009 (2002 dollars). |
Value of road and highway assets |
Value of gross capital stock increased by 2 percent over five years, by 2014. |
We made progress towards enhancing the sustainability of transportation infrastructure by:
Marine Atlantic Inc.[9] replaced its two oldest vessels to improve service and meet increasing traffic demand to and from Newfoundland and Labrador. Over five years, $520.8 million will be spent to revitalize and renew its fleet and shore facilities at North Sydney, Nova Scotia, as well as at Port aux Basques and Argentia, Newfoundland and Labrador. Major shore-based projects were undertaken, such as the North Sydney alternate dock ramp.
Transport Canada completed a review to determine the feasibility of transferring Ridley Terminals Inc. to the Prince Rupert Port Authority. The government has also approved Ridley Terminals Inc.’s plans to increase the terminal’s capacity, as well as plans to borrow from commercial lenders. Shippers will continue to receive reliable bulk marine terminal service to transport their products to international markets. In November 2010, the Government of Canada announced it would be investing an additional $44.7 million to support the Eastern Quebec and Atlantic Canada ferry services. via Rail Canada made significant progress in refurbishing passenger cars and locomotives, station upgrades and various infrastructure projects, all of which are supported through the Government of Canada’s $516-million, five-year commitment made in 2007 to improve the sustainability and reliability of Canadian passenger rail services and $407 million from Canada’s Economic Action Plan, announced in Budget 2009.
Phase 1 of developing the real property management framework for all Transport Canada-owned assets is ongoing, with extensive consultations underway.
The department also made progress in effectively managing federal investments in infrastructure. Transport Canada:
It is important to involve other levels of government when developing transportation policies and programs that impact their jurisdictions in order to ensure that transportation needs are being addressed.
Increased communication and information exchange with project proponents, stakeholders and other federal delivery partners was required to ensure the successful delivery of projects that support and enhance the national transportation system. This will continue to be required to effectively forecast spending and manage infrastructure funds in the future.
Description: The Transportation Innovation program activity aims to make the Canadian transportation system more efficient and competitive. Working in partnership with stakeholders, the program aims to enhance the capacity of the transportation sector to research and implement innovative solutions to current and emerging transportation challenges. The program sets and implements policy and strategic direction for technology research, development and deployment, and develops and manages collaborative departmental research and development programs. This includes advancing and disseminating scientific knowledge and the application of transportation technologies; partnering and collaborating with other federal government departments, provinces and territories, the academic community and other national and international stakeholders; and supporting skills development and capacity building initiatives for a highly qualified transportation workforce.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
14 | 16 | 11 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
47 | 27 | 20 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators[10] |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
An innovative transportation system |
Number of partnership projects with external stakeholders stimulating innovation — intelligent transportation systems projects. |
Number to be set according to annual plan. |
Status: In Progress Twenty-five intelligent transportation systems projects involving external partners were initiated, are ongoing or were completed in 2010-2011, about 25 percent fewer than in 2009-2010. The variance reflects delays in approval of program terms and conditions, partners’ focus on other infrastructure programs, and contracting and partnership issues that delayed the start of projects. A total of 83 research and development projects with external partners were funded in 2010-2011, approximately 30 percent more than in 2009-2010. The increase is mainly due to increased internal capacity to initiate and manage projects. |
Number of partnership projects with external stakeholders stimulating |
Number to be set according to annual plan. |
Developing an innovation agenda for a large and complex sector of the economy requires a clear understanding of the current and future challenges facing all those with a stake in the system. In addition to ongoing consultations with stakeholders, a research project was undertaken to create an inventory of transportation and transportation-related research. Knowing what research is being conducted at Canadian institutions of higher learning will help identify our research strengths and weaknesses going forward.
The department cooperated internationally to improve the safety of our transportation system. In partnership with a leading industry-university research centre in the United States, the department undertook research to prevent injuries to children during motor vehicle crashes, which are the leading cause of death for all children over three years of age.
Transport Canada established the Network of Expertise in Northern Transportation Infrastructure Research in Permafrost Regions in 2010. The network creates close cooperation between Transport Canada and other federal government departments, territorial and provincial planners and practitioners, academia and private industry. The network represents the key activity of the Northern Transportation Research Initiative and serves as a tool to identify priority areas of innovation to be addressed. This includes preserving the northern transportation infrastructure in the face of harsh and changing climatic conditions.
Ongoing intelligent transportation systems projects included measuring border wait time data and delivering the information to cross-border travellers. Other projects were dedicated to developing information on congestion management, travel advisories and other types of traveller information to help improve efficiency. Collaboration continued with our major trading partners to harmonize our intelligent transportation systems approaches and technology, maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of our shared border transportation infrastructures for the benefit of all.
In-depth knowledge of the business issues faced by the transportation sector is required to move forward with an innovation agenda. It also requires an understanding of the current state of innovation in the sector drawn from the most up-to-date data available, and of the research capacity that exists to support progress on innovation priorities. Acquiring and validating this information is an important step towards developing an innovation agenda for the sector.
The formation of research partnerships is an important tool for leveraging resources and ensuring the right focus for individual research and development projects. However, developing, coordinating and managing these projects, while ensuring necessary accountability structures are in place, presents a number of challenges. Administrative and contracting issues and obtaining necessary approvals can often cause delays in developing and delivering projects on time.
A Clean Transportation System is supported by four departmental priorities detailed in Section I of this report and contributes to the Government of Canada outcome of A Clean and Healthy Environment.
The following provides a detailed analysis of performance against expected results, as committed to in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities, for each of these program activities in support of this strategic outcome:
Description: Transport Canada’s Clean Air from Transportation program activity advances the federal government’s Clean Air Agenda in the transportation sector and complements other federal programs designed to reduce air emissions for the health of Canadians and the environment for generations to come. The program regulates air emissions from the transportation sector; oversees Transport Canada’s clean air program obligations and commitments; demonstrates and promotes clean transportation technologies; promotes environmentally responsible best practices and behaviours; and builds stakeholder knowledge and capacity to reduce air emissions.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
23 | 19 | 17 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
86 | 87 | 1 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A transportation system that is less intensive in its emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants |
Level of intensity of emissions from freight and passenger transportation, as measured in tonnes of CO2 equivalent per passenger-kilometre (km) |
An intensity improvement that is consistent with targets established under the government’s horizontal approach for clean air. |
Status: In Progress Data for 2010-2011 are not available at this time. Based on the most recent available data (2008), emission intensity in the passenger sector declined (from 143g of CO2e/passenger-km in 2005 to 137g in 2008). This reflects increases in energy efficiency in all passenger modes. Within the freight sector, an increase in emission intensity (from 83g of CO2e/tonne-km in 2005 to 91g in 2008) was noted.[11] |
The department continued to implement the Clean Air Agenda through regulatory and non-regulatory initiatives designed to reduce air emissions from transportation.
Work continued on proposed locomotive emissions regulations for criteria air contaminants under the Railway Safety Act that will be aligned with U.S. regulations. The department held a 75-day preliminary consultation period and hosted a series of six information sessions. It received a total of 16 formal written submissions from a range of interested stakeholders.
Transport Canada continued to develop new regulations under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 to implement new standards adopted by the International Maritime Organization for air pollutant emissions from ships, including the North American Emission Control Area. The department also began developing regulations aimed at reducing air emissions from vessels operating in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway System. A regional working group was established to develop a program to regulate smaller marine diesel engines on vessels operating in coastal and inland waters.
In addition to the work noted in Section 1.4 under the priority to continue to support the government’s Clean Air Agenda, Transport Canada continued to support the development of international standards and recommended practices through the International Civil Aviation Organization concerning air pollutant emissions from aviation sources. An increased nitrogen oxide stringency level for aircraft engines, adopted in March 2011, is one of the results of this work. Transport Canada also supported Canadian work on a measurement methodology for particulate matter from airplane engines.
Two of the ecotransport Strategy programs were concluded as planned in 2010-2011, and the Marine Shore Power program and ecomobility program are on track to be completed as planned in 2011-2012. Since its inception, this strategy has co-financed 53 demonstration projects with municipalities, the freight industry and the marine sector, and conducted tests and evaluations on over 50 different advanced vehicle technologies to help reduce air emissions from the Canadian transportation system through the use of clean air transportation technology and practices.
Detailed ecotransport Strategy program results are available in the Supplementary Information table.
Working with stakeholders, and improving knowledge and analytical capacity are fundamental to developing policies, programs, regulations, codes and standards related to reducing greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions from the transportation sector.
Description: Guided by Canada Shipping Act, 2001 the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act, the Marine Liability Act and international conventions, the Clean Water from Transportation program activity helps protect the marine environment and the health of Canadians by reducing the pollution of water from transportation sources. The program regulates and monitors the impact of discharges from marine vessels into the marine environment; regulates ballast water; and contributes to setting domestic and international rules that govern limits to liability for marine pollution incidents.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
6 | 7 | 8 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
15 | 14 | 1 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Canadian waters protected |
Number of ship-source |
2-per-cent reduction in ship-source pollution spills annually from the previous year, compared to the 2003-2004 baseline. |
Status: Mostly Met |
Transfer of alien aquatic |
Percentage of ships in compliance with reporting rules for ballast water | 95-per-cent compliance by 2015 — subject to revision once baseline is established. |
Status: Met With respect to the percentage of ships in compliance with reporting rules for ballast water, there is 100-per-cent compliance in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway System, and approximately 90 percent in coastal areas. Additionally, since the establishment in 2006 of a binational inspection program that ensures compliance by all vessels entering the Great Lakes from overseas, no new non-native species attributable to ship ballast have been reported in the Great Lakes, speaking to the effectiveness of the regulations. It should be noted that, due to the coming into force of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004, a review of this performance indicator will be undertaken. |
Under Transport Canada’s lead, Canada ratified the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 and the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships. These conventions contain measures that will enhance protection of the environment from ships’ pollution, and reduce the risk of introducing and spreading invasive species[12] in waters under Canadian jurisdiction. In December 2010, Transport Canada published proposed Ballast Water Regulations to bring the current regulations under the regime of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
The department also implemented amendments to the Marine Liability Act. As a result, Canada ratified two international conventions adopted by the International Maritime Organization (the 2003 Protocol on the Establishment of a Supplementary Fund for Oil Pollution Damage that amends the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage, 1992 and the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage), both of which came into force on January 2, 2010.
Work advanced on developing a national ship-source hazardous and noxious substance preparedness and response regime. The department also released a discussion paper and completed stakeholder consultations on a proposal to ratify the Protocol of 2010 to the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea. In addition, the department responded to the 2010 Fall Report of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development. Chapter 1 of the report dealt with oil spills from ships, and Transport Canada made progress on the recommendation to develop a marine cargo tracking system.
An additional 232 National Aerial Surveillance program patrol hours were flown (for a total of 2,506), an increase of 10 percent over the previous year. The increased effort demonstrated efficient targeting, with a comparative rise in the number of vessel overflights (12, 365 in 2010-2011). On May 1, 2010, Transport Canada deployed its Moncton based Dash 8 aircraft and flight crews to the Gulf of Mexico to help monitor the extent the crude oil spill following the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion. It was the primary aerial asset used to map the extent of the crude oil spill.
Three surveillance aircraft used by the National Aerial Surveillance program were upgraded to allow Transport Canada to gather evidence to prepare and pursue prosecutions, fines and pleas from marine polluters, enhancing the program’s role as a significant deterrent to potential polluters.
Providing predictable regulations for international shipping helps Canada compete in global markets. Thus, work to streamline regulations with major partners in the global market is an important element of maintaining Canada’s economic prosperity.
Description: The Environmental Stewardship program activity fulfils Transport Canada’s responsibilities in working towards a cleaner and healthier environment for Canadians, with regard to its own operations. These responsibilities include managing contaminated sites and fulfilling environmental responsibilities at Transport Canada-owned or -operated ports and airports. The program develops and implements policies and programs for Transport Canada activities that further environmental objectives and promote sustainable transportation; provides functional support for environmental assessments, including major resource projects; and promotes compliance with environmental laws, federal government policies and best practices in Transport Canada’s stewardship activities.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
70 | 59 | 40 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
64 | 75 | 11 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators[13] |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Transport Canada aware of, and responsive to, environmental impacts of its activities |
Percentage level of compliance with applicable laws, regulations and guidelines |
Total compliance with applicable laws, regulations and guidelines. |
Status: Met All Throughout 2010-2011, Transport Canada complied with applicable environmental legislation, regulations and guidelines, and did not receive any contravention notices. |
Transport Canada’s updated National Environmental Management System contributed to improving the management of departmental operations and lands through targets related to air emissions, land management, non-hazardous waste management, hazardous materials management, drinking water, environmental emergency response, green procurement and wastewater. The department achieved 100 percent of these targets.
Transport Canada managed contaminated sites in accordance with its departmental plan, the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan and the accelerated projects under Canada’s Economic Action Plan. In total, Transport Canada undertook 24 assessment projects and 70 remediation projects that included five accelerated assessment projects and 20 accelerated remediation projects.
The department continued implementing the Major Projects Management Office principles to improve and streamline the federal regulatory review process for major projects, including environmental assessments, aboriginal consultations and regulatory approval.
The department helped develop the first three-year Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, which was tabled in Parliament by the Minister of the Environment in October 2010. Transport Canada also prepared its Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy, which highlights how the department contributes to the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.
Improving oversight and monitoring of the National Environmental Management System provides a more accurate picture of performance. Stronger communication and awareness are also increasing the system’s effectiveness as a tool to ensure departmental compliance with environmental legislation.
Budget 2009 expanded the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan to address contaminated sites where remediation could be accelerated. As a result, Transport Canada undertook 25 projects worth $21.7 million in 2010-2011.
The following provides a detailed analysis of performance against expected results, as committed to in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities, for each of these program activities in support of this strategic outcome:
Description: The Aviation Safety program activity develops administers and oversees the policies, regulations and standards necessary for the safe conduct of civil aviation within Canada’s borders in a manner harmonized with the international aviation community.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
240 | 253 | 211 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
1,864 | 1,793 | 71 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A safe civil aviation system |
Five-year average: number |
By 2010, maintain 2002-2007 average: Canadian Aviation Regulations |
Status: Exceeded Status: Exceeded** Number of accidents for training and recreational flights. Status: Exceeded* Percentage of Canadian public saying air travel is safe or very safe. Status: In Progress *Source: Transport Canada, adapted from the Transportation Safety Board, preliminary data as of January 19, 2011. The 2005-2010 hours flown are estimated due to data lag. You will find more details at the Civil Aviation Website. |
Number of accidents for |
By 2010, maintain accident numbers: Canadian Aviation Regulations 406 (Flight Training) 29.6; Recreational Aviation 277.8 (2007 baseline). | ||
Public confidence in aviation safety |
Percentage of Canadian public saying air travel is safe or very safe |
By 2011, 90 percent of respondents say that air travel is safe or very safe. |
Transport Canada continued to improve the infrastructure supporting aviation safety management systems by developing guidance material and training sessions. Approximately 45 percent of delegated civil aviation inspectors received mandatory training on the newly developed Surveillance Procedures course.
We made good progress towards developing a safety risk profile tool that will be used in risk-based surveillance planning in support of our oversight program.
Canada’s position at the leading edge of aviation safety positions us as a key participant internationally with partners such as the United States Federal Aviation Administration, the European Aviation Safety Authority and other member states of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Coordination with international, domestic and departmental partners included participation in, and provision of subject-matter experts to, the Safety Management Systems International Collaboration Group; the Best Practices Panel, Western Hemispheric Dialogue; and other panels and working groups. During 2010-2011, interim agreements were signed with Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. The department hosted the North American Aviation Trilateral meeting on civil aviation safety program issues between Canada, Mexico and the United States.
We streamlined the Airports Capital Assistance program application and approval process to facilitate the start of projects.
Within Transport Canada and other government departments, Aviation Safety provided technical background on certification requirements and new emissions standards, as they impact both environmental sustainability and safety issues.
In light of the Transportation Safety Board Watchlist issued in 2010, the department has had to review its internal rule-making processes to improve its timeliness in responding to safety actions.
Our oversight methodology can benefit from a process of continuous improvement that includes a risk-based approach to prioritize surveillance activities, improved training for our inspectors and other improvements to our processes as a result of standardization and applying best practices identified by our people delivering the program, in the regions and across the country.
Description: The Marine Safety program activity, under the authority of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, the Navigable Waters Protection Act, the Safe Containers Act, the Pilotage Act, the Coasting Trade Act and Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act, develops, implements and administers regulations, policies and standards necessary for the safe and environmentally sound conduct of marine activities in a manner harmonized with the International Maritime Organization. This program activity promotes safety and provides safety oversight of the marine industry, including domestic and foreign vessels, as well as pleasure crafts; enforces international conventions signed by Canada; and protects the marine environment and the public right to navigate on Canadian waterways.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
74 | 84 | 83 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
660 | 682 | 22 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A safe marine transportation system |
Rates of accidents/fatalities |
By 2015, achieve a 5-per-cent reduction from 2008 levels. |
Rates of accidents/fatalities. Status: Exceeded Percentage of the Canadian public reporting confidence in the safety of the marine transportation system. Status: In Progress |
Public confidence in the marine transportation system |
Percentage of the Canadian public reporting confidence in the safety of the marine transportation system |
By 2010 to 2015 (based on strategic plan), 90 percent of respondents say that marine safety is safe or very safe. |
Transport Canada promoted a strong safety culture with the Canadian shipping industry by successfully completing the second year of a two-year pilot project for safety management systems, and holding public and internal consultations on a regulatory proposal for the mandatory implementation of safety management systems for the Canadian domestic fleet.
In addition to implementing safety management systems, we are progressing successfully toward a risk-based inspection regulatory regime. Risk factors such as compliance history, vessel age, type and area of operations are more significant in determining which vessels are inspected and how often. Through this regulatory regime, the department concentrates on doing inspections where they are most needed, based on the assessed risks to Canadian waterways and ports.
Transport Canada is actively involved in developing international standards at the International Maritime Organization. Canada is a member of the Paris and Tokyo Memoranda of Understanding that seek to harmonize the port state control regimes for ships. The department worked with the United States Coast Guard to seek ways to harmonize and collaborate on developing rules for vessels and monitoring activities to support Canadian and United States regulatory schemes. The department contributed to the safety of seafarers when the Government of Canada deposited its instrument of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 with the International Labour Office on June 15, 2010. The convention aims to achieve decent conditions of work for seafarers as a key aspect of ensuring fair competition for quality ship owners.
The department enhanced the national training program for marine inspectors by developing and administering five Vessel Inspector Refresher courses; and by developing and administering nine renewal Small Vessel Compliance Program courses. A national training approach ensures consistent delivery of Transport Canada’s marine safety programs, which contributes to the safety of vessel operators and seafarers.
To effectively implement safety management systems, the department must adhere to the International Safety Management Code, 2002 standard while tailoring requirements to its domestic fleet where possible.
A clear, harmonized and consolidated regulatory framework must be in place to support authorization programs. The department is moving forward with a number of regulatory reform projects to improve the regulatory framework. This work includes one project that will consolidate all inspection and certification requirements under one regulatory instrument, which will clarify the inspection and certification process for all stakeholders.
Description: Under the authority of the Railway Safety Act, the Rail Safety program activity develops implements and promotes safety policy, regulations, standards and research. The program provides oversight of the rail industry; and promotes public safety at crossings; and identifies the risks of trespassing. It also provides funds to improve safety at grade crossings.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
36 | 34 | 31 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
202 | 170 | 32 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A safe rail transportation system |
Number/rate of accidents and fatalities |
5-per-cent reduction in accident rates based on the five-year average, starting in 2009-2010. |
Number/rate of accidents and fatalities. Status: Met All There were 1,075 reported rail accidents in 2010. This is well below the five-year average of 1,278. There were 81 fatalities in 2010, down from the five-year average of 85, but up from the 2009 total. |
Incident rates |
5-per-cent reduction in incident rates based on the five-year average, starting in 2009-2010. |
Incident rates. Status: Met All |
|
Percentage of Canadian public reporting confidence in the safety of the rail transportation sytem | By 2011, 90 percent of respondents say that railways in Canada are safe or very safe. |
Level of public confidence. Status: In Progress |
Transport Canada implemented key pieces of Rail Safety’s Strategic Plan for 2010 to 2015, building on many of the recommendations identified as part of the Railway Safety Act review. These included publishing the new Guide for Developing, Implementing and Enhancing Railway Safety Management Systems for Developing, Implementing and Enhancing Railway Safety Management Systems; developing a national training program for inspectors; putting in place early stages of a national data management system; and developing and enhancing business procedures as part of the rail safety quality management system.
Supporting legislation to amend the Railway Safety Act was tabled in Parliament in June 2010. This legislation included recommendations from the 2008 Railway Safety Act review that required changes to the Act itself, such as enhancing Transport Canada’s oversight and enforcement capabilities. The amendment to the Act had completed second reading and was at the committee stage when the federal election was called. We expect that the legislation will be re-introduced in Parliament.
The Grade Crossing Improvement program provided $7.4 million in direct funding to improve grade crossings across Canada, and the Grade Crossing Closure program provided $225,000 to close crossings in cases where they were no longer required and traffic could be diverted to a safer alternative crossing. The rail safety organizational review will continue to realign the Rail Safety program to ensure maximum effectiveness in service delivery.
Through its quality management system, the Rail Safety program conducted an internal assessment of its business procedures in 2009-2010. The key findings noted a need for improved communications, as well as better training, information management and management accountability. The new Rail Safety Strategic Plan, approved in November 2010, addresses these key findings.
The Rail Safety program received $68.4 million over five years in top-up funding through Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Description: Guided by the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and the Motor Vehicle Transport Act, the Road Safety program activity develops standards and regulations; provides oversight; and engages in public outreach in order to reduce the deaths, injuries and social costs caused by motor vehicle use; and improves public confidence in the safety of Canada’s road transportation system.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
40 | 42 | 42 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
119 | 103 | 16 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Safe roads |
Number/rate of fatalities and serious injuries. |
Thirty-per-cent reduction, based on baseline period (1996-2001). |
Number/rate of fatalities and serious injuries. Status: Mostly Met |
Public confidence in the safety of the road system |
Percentage of Canadians that express high confidence |
By 2015, 50 percent have high confidence. |
Percentage of Canadians that express high confidence. Status: In Progress |
The department continued its ongoing review of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, considering issues raised by parliamentarians and the public. Bill S-5, an Act to Amend the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, received Royal Assent on March 23, 2011. It brings Canada into compliance with North American Free Trade Agreement obligations with respect to importing used vehicles. For more details, please consult the Road Safety website.
In addition, the department harmonized most Canadian vehicle safety standards with the equivalent United States standards. The remaining few requirements reflect specific Canadian safety needs or obligatory legislative needs, or allow manufacturers more design freedom in areas deemed not critical to the safety of Canadian road users.
The department continued its international leadership role by participating in the development of a road safety standard for the International Organization for Standardization Safety Management Systems. The department has been leading a mirror committee of Canadian experts to support the development of International Standards Organization/PC 241, Road Safety Management, for the Standards Council of Canada.
Most of the work associated with the child seat safety action plan has been completed. For example, the Motor Vehicle Restraint Systems and Booster Seats Safety Regulations were amended as of May 12, 2010, to harmonize some elements with the U.S. and to incorporate new and unique Canadian testing requirements. You will find more details on our website.
Transport Canada has strengthened its domestic leadership role by chairing the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators Task Force that developed the successor plan to Road Safety Vision 2010. The new initiative, called Road Safety Strategy 2015, kept the vision (the safest roads in the world) and strategic objectives of its predecessor. The new strategy was strongly endorsed by the Council of Ministers Responsible for Transportation and Highway Safety in September 2010.
An ongoing challenge when trying to increase public awareness is the lack of reliable information on the Canadian public’s concerns and level of awareness of road safety issues. This limits the department’s ability to proactively adjust emphasis.
Outreach initiatives, such as the Year of Road Safety and Transport Canada’s website and publications, help ensure the public continues to have the resources at its disposal to make informed decisions regarding the personal safety of road users.
Funding under Canada’s Economic Action Plan in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 was used to modernize the Motor Vehicle Test Centre and expand test capability to address emerging road safety risks. The modernization of the Motor Vehicle Test Centre in Blainville, Quebec, was completed on March 31, 2011. The laboratory is now state of the art and unique in North America. The crash laboratory has an expanded capacity that will allow crash tests to be more representative of the types of crashes that are injuring Canadians on roads today.
Description: As required by the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992, the Transportation of Dangerous Goods program activity, based on risk, develops safety standards and regulations; provides oversight and gives expert advice (e.g. the Canadian Transport Emergency Centre) on dangerous goods incidents to promote public safety in the transportation of dangerous goods by all modes of transport in Canada; identifies threats to public safety and enforces the Act and its regulations; guides emergency response and limits the impact of incidents involving the transportation of dangerous goods; and develops policy and conducts research to enhance safety and security.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
14 | 15 | 14 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
133 | 120 | 13 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Public safety during the |
Number of accidental releases from means of containment |
For 2010, zero accidental releases from means of containment during normal conditions of transport |
Number of accidental releases from means of containment during normal conditions of transport. Status: Not Met |
Number of deaths or injuries attributed to dangerous goods |
For 2010, zero deaths and, for injuries, baseline + 5-per-cent reduction |
Number of deaths or injuries attributed to dangerous goods. Status: Met All |
To align with the safety and security requirements of the amended Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act[14], two regulatory amendments were made. These amendments helped harmonize the regulatory framework with our international partners to ensure Canada’s interests are communicated and considered in the development of international regulations and standards. Aligning regulations with the Act and harmonizing regulations with those of our partners ensures a safe and more efficient transportation network.
Enforcement of and compliance with the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act is a shared responsibility with other federal departments and provincial and territorial authorities. Through the 2010-2011 spring and fall meetings of the task force and the National Compliance Working Group, the department established policy and common enforcement practices to provide for fairer and more transparent program delivery. The department also identified the need for regulatory changes that would better serve the transportation of dangerous goods industry without compromising safety.
The department also developed a core competency policy that strengthens the inspectorate’s knowledge base and provides for more uniform program delivery.
Regular quality assurance reviews of program oversight, strategies, policies and operational procedures are required to ensure a uniform delivery of the program. Timely emergency response assistance plan approvals must be made to support emergency response activities undertaken by industry. A standardized national risk-based approach, based on best practices, is required to strengthen compliance oversight activities. The department will provide the regions with the necessary tools to ensure that compliance oversight is performed in a consistent manner.
The department is also moving forward with an external review of the Emergency Response Assistance program’s policies and procedures to provide the framework for a more effective and responsive approval process. A clear, harmonized and consolidated regulatory framework must be in place to support programs. The Department is moving forward with a number of regulatory projects to align the regulatory framework with our most important trading partners.
This strategic outcome contributes to all departmental priorities detailed in Section I of this report and contributes to the Government of Canada outcome of A Safe and Secure Canada.
The following provides a detailed analysis of performance against expected results, as committed to in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities, for each of the program activities in support of this strategic outcome:
Description: The Aviation Security program activity develops administers and oversees policies, programs, regulations and standards necessary for a secure Canadian aviation system in a manner harmonized with the international aviation community.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
29 | 49 | 43 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
253 | 355 | 102 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A secure aviation system |
Composite index level of aviation security |
By 2015, Aviation Security is rated high to very high on the index (subject to change once the composite index is developed). |
Composite index level of aviation security. Status: In Progress |
Level of credibility of aviation security internationally |
Number of adjustments made to the Canadian Aviation Security Regulatory Framework to achieve international acceptance |
Two adjustments or less are made to the Canadian Aviation Security Regulatory Framework to achieve international acceptance. |
Number of adjustments made to the Canadian Aviation Security Regulatory Framework to achieve international acceptance. Status: Met All |
Public confidence in the security of the aviation transportation system |
Percentage of respondents in a national survey reporting confidence in the security of Canada’s aviation system |
Ninety percent of the public has high or moderate confidence in the security of Canada’s aviation system. |
Percentage of Canadians that express confidence in the security of Canada’s aviation system. Status: In Progress |
Transport Canada and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police negotiated a memorandum of understanding to improve the sharing of criminal information and intelligence for transportation security. This includes a review by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police of known criminal associations or links to organized crime and allows Transport Canada to better assess the risk posed by transportation security clearance applicants.
Progress is continuing on the development of the department’s long-term strategy to enhance aviation security. Specific achievements include strengthening the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s financial sustainability; enhancing passenger and baggage screening; launching a comprehensive Air Cargo Security program; conducting public consultations on aviation security programs for airports; performance-based regulation that will result in greater industry involvement in addressing local risks.
Transport Canada is proceeding with a two-pronged approach for the Air Cargo Security program that includes strengthening supply chain security and enhancing screening. This made-in-Canada solution to cargo threats will be comparable to and compatible with security measures used by the United States and other international partners. The Air Cargo Security program allows Canada to meet international standards, which in turn ensures Canada’s continued ability to move cargo internationally, a $50-billion business worldwide that transports 35 percent of the value of goods traded internationally and is a critical part of the airline business.
Progress was also made on streamlining aviation security regulations to reduce the industry compliance burden and on moving towards performance-based regulations to further enhance risk management approaches to aviation security. A step towards strengthening aviation security in Canada was also achieved by developing and publishing the Canadian Aviation Security Regulations applying to airports in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on February 12, 2011.
In 2010-2011 Transport Canada directed the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, which is responsible for airport security screening, to focus on smarter screening, and checking for high-threat items such as explosives. These changes included removing items from the prohibited items list (such as small scissors and tools) which pose a low threat to aircraft safety and security, particularly in light of recent developments in aircraft integrity such as reinforced cockpit doors, improved aircrew security training and programs like Passenger Protect. Changes also included introducing new equipment and lane configurations; which are designed to make the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s screening smarter and more effective by modernizing passenger and baggage screening. These announced changes to airport screening are designed to ensure travellers are getting value for their money by increasing convenience while maintaining a consistently high level of security.
Description: The Marine Security program activity, with partners, enforces the Marine Transportation Security Act to protect Canada and Canadians in a way that respects Canadian values. It safeguards integrity and security, and preserves the efficiency of Canada’s Marine Transportation System against unlawful interference, terrorist attacks or from being used as a means to attack our allies.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
21 | 21 | 20 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
161 | 146 | 15 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
A secure marine transportation system |
Number and types of security incidents in marine ports and facilities. Under development: indicator to be based on Marine Transportation Security Regulations incidents |
Baseline will be established in 2011; 10-per-cent reduction in the number, frequency and intensity of Marine Transportation Security Regulations incidents by 2015. |
A secure marine transportation system. Indicator to be based on the Marine Transportation Security Regulations. Status: In Progress |
Level of credibility of marine security internationally |
Number of countries imposing special security measures |
By 2010, zero countries imposing special security measures on goods and people arriving from Canada. |
Number of countries imposing special security measures on goods and people arriving from Canada. Status: In Progress |
Public confidence in the security of the marine transportation system | Percentage of surveyed population reporting confidence in marine security | 90 percent of surveyed population reporting confidence in marine security by 2015. |
Percentage of surveyed population reporting confidence in marine security. Status: In Progress |
A whole-of-government Maritime Security Strategic Framework was developed and endorsed by the Transport Canada-led Interdepartmental Marine Security Working Group and the Assistant Deputy Ministers’ Marine Security Committee. The framework, which effectively updates the 2004 Marine Security Strategy, is designed to guide and unify the effort of departments and agencies during maritime security missions. The interdepartmental Marine Security Operations Centre Policy Working Group, led by Transport Canada, developed a policy position that defined and clarified the current and future state of the Marine Security Operations centres. The policy position recommended legislation to clarify roles and remove ambiguities about information sharing between Marine Security Operations Centre partners and agencies.
Both the Coastal Marine Security Operations Centre and the Great Lakes Marine Security Operations Centre are now operational and have achieved their initial operating capability under the respective Department of National Defence and Royal Canadian Mounted Police project management organizations. The centres’ interdepartmental organizations have been established and are capable of operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week to target, detect and assess maritime security threats. Transport Canada has integrated its personnel and processes into the centres, and continues to work with participating departments and agencies to develop a solid awareness in the department’s area of responsibility with regard to maritime security. This has improved the Government of Canada’s level of maritime domain awareness, which was evidenced during the 2010 arrival of the MV Sun Sea and MV Ocean Lady and its cargo of almost 500 irregular migrants.
Marine Transportation Security Regulations are being updated to ensure that they are written in plain language, performance expectations are clear and the regulations are further harmonized with those of international partners. Consultations with industry, other government departments and departmental colleagues occurred across the country in 2010, after which the department decided to divide the proposed amendments into phases to allow for a more manageable approach.
The Oversight and Enforcement program was enhanced by taking a phased-in approach to implement the Domestic Ferries Security Regulations; introducing education and awareness initiatives to encourage compliance with the Marine Transportation Security Act and its regulations; and enhancing more comprehensive compliance and enforcement policies and guidance for inspectors.
Transport Canada played an integral part in maritime security for the April 2010 G20 summit. Enhanced water-side security zones were established under the Marine Transportation Security Act on ferry facilities, commercial vessels and on parts of Lake Ontario for security purposes. Lessons learned from this event in terms of logistics, roles and responsibilities, and implementation will be invaluable for future marine security-related events.
The arrival of almost 500 irregular migrants in two separate ships (MV Sun Sea and MV Ocean Lady) in 2010, was utilized to further develop and enhance interdepartmental intelligence and information sharing processes and procedures, to further test and refine the Federal interdepartmental Marine Event Response Protocol, and to reinforce and enhance Transport Canada’s role as an effective partner in a coordinated Government of Canada response to a significant marine event or incident.
Description: Guided by the Rail Safety Act, the International Bridges and Tunnels Act and the federal government’s transportation security mandate, the Surface and Intermodal Security program activity enhances the security of surface and intermodal transportation, mainly rail and urban transit, against direct terrorist attack. Working with partners to protect Canada and Canadians in a way that respects Canadian values and preserves the efficiency of the transportation system, the program provides federal leadership, develops and enforces regulatory and voluntary frameworks (regulations, codes of practice, and memoranda of understanding) and provides financial contributions.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
7 | 7 | 7 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
44 | 49 | 5 |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Targets | Performance Status |
---|---|---|---|
Urban transit operators aware of and adopt voluntary and regulatory requirements when the latter are in place |
Percentage of awareness and adoption among category 1 and 2 operators of voluntary and regulatory requirements[15] |
100 percent [or: Total] awareness among urban transit operators by 2011.
|
Percentage of awareness and adoption among category 1 and 2 operators of voluntary and regulatory requirements. Status: Mostly met |
By 2011, category 1: 80-per-cent adoption; category 2: 50-per-cent adoption. | |||
Rail transportation (passenger and freight) operators aware of and adopt voluntary and regulatory requirements (when the latter are in place) |
Percentage of operators that are aware of voluntary frameworks
|
100 percent [or: Total] awareness among passenger and freight operators by 2011. |
Percentage of operators that are aware of voluntary frameworks. Status: Mostly Met |
Percentage of class 1 railways and selected commuter rail (e.g. AMT, GO Transit, West Coast Express) that adopt voluntary frameworks | 100 percent [or: Total] voluntary adoption by passenger and freight operators by 2011. |
Percentage of class 1 railways and selected commuter rail (e.g. AMT, GO Transit, West Coast Express) that adopt voluntary frameworks. Status: In Progress The main elements of the Railway Association of Canada-Transport Canada Memorandum of Understanding that have been implemented include security plans; record keeping; exercises;training and awareness; incident reporting; and intelligence sharing. Thirty railway operators submitted security plans to Transport Canada, demonstrating that railways are aware of and are in the process of adopting the voluntary framework. There are challenges with measuring how the awareness element of the performance indicator contributes to ensuring a secure surface and intermodal transportation system, and the values of this performance indicator versus the actual adoption of the voluntary and regulatory requirements. These indicators are currently under review to ensure relevance and measurability. |
Transport Canada developed a five-year strategy to establish a framework for the Government of Canada’s future activities in surface and intermodal transportation security. The strategy supports the strategic objective of enhancing security for all gateways and corridors. The department is implementing Beyond the Border, a shared vision for perimeter security and economic competiveness, in cooperation with the United States government to better enhance the movement of goods and people along these corridors.
The department undertook a risk-based analysis of international bridges and tunnels, and the transportation of dangerous goods in consultation with industry to assess the appropriate government instrument to enhance the security of these sectors. In addition, Transport Canada worked with other federal departments, U.S. government agencies and private-sector stakeholders to conduct specific security risk assessments on selected critical infrastructure.
To strengthen the oversight over the voluntary rail security regime, the department developed and implemented the Performance and Evaluation Assessment Tool that is currently being used by inspectors to more efficiently assess operators’ security performance and adherence to security commitments.
Work continued with industry leaders to successfully develop additional guidance material (i.e. codes of practice) that is helping operators enhance their security systems.
A comprehensive oversight model is required to ensure that clear performance measures are developed for future security programs and sufficient guidance materials are developed for industry stakeholders. Given the jurisdictional complexity of the surface and intermodal sector, improved collaboration with federal, provincial and territorial partners is essential. The lessons learned from existing security programs and risk-based security analysis will be used in developing future security programs (e.g. international bridges and tunnels, and the transportation of dangerous goods).
Internal Services supports two departmental priorities detailed in Section I of this report and contributes to all four strategic outcomes. The following provides a detailed analysis of performance against expected results, as committed to in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities in support of this program activity.
Description: Internal Services[16] are groups of related activities and resources that are administered to support the needs of programs and other corporate obligations of an organization. These groups are Management and Oversight[17] Services; Communications Services; Legal Services; Human Resources Management Services; Financial Management Services; Information Management Services; Information Technology Services; Real Property Services; Material Services; Acquisition Services; and Travel and Other Administrative Services. Internal Services include only those activities and resources that apply across an organization.
Planned Spending | Total Authorities | Actual Spending |
---|---|---|
177 | 212 | 227 |
Planned | Actual | Difference |
---|---|---|
1,292 | 1,448 | 156 |
To support public service renewal, new talent management and employee engagement initiatives were implemented. Through employee-to-employee mentoring, learning groups and networks, best practices and experience can be shared throughout Transport Canada. For example, to increase horizontal understanding of the most important departmental issues, the department began to hold national townhall meetings for its executives across the country.
An extensive review of Transport Canada’s Performance Measurement Framework was undertaken to enhance the department’s performance tracking and reporting, strengthen accountability and enable better decision making to improve program delivery and resource allocation. Changes will be implemented in future years.
In addition to its new governance structure, the department developed its first five-year Investment Plan, and adopted new guidelines to streamline and strengthen project approval and oversight processes.
The Centre of Expertise on Transfer Payments was established to help improve how transfer payments programs are managed and delivered to recipients. This will make our programs more recipient-focused, result-oriented and cost-effective. The department also completed the second year of a three-year plan to test the design and operating effectiveness of its system of internal control.
In addition to these results which respond to planned activities included in the 2010-2011 Report on Plans and Priorities, we also achieved the following:
Internal Services provided support to the department by collecting, analysing and disseminating reliable information. Economic transportation statistical data, such as statistics on passengers and cargo for the four transportation modes, were produced and shared within the department to support policymaking, program development and decision-making in support of the four strategic outcomes.
Amendments to overhaul the Carriers and Transportation and Grain Handling Undertakings Information Regulations were published in Part I of the Canada Gazette on February 19, 2011. These regulations, which had not been reviewed in over 13 years, provide the means by which the Minister of Transport collects operational and financial data on all modes of transport under federal jurisdiction.
The department successfully completed the four-year Web Content Management System project that saves an estimated 30 percent on routine Web coding time, and allows the automation of major site changes, for a significant gain in efficiency. This project was honoured with a Service Delivery Award at Canada’s Government Technology Event. Through the Web 2.0 Collaboration project, Transport Canada launched external social media channels, Twitter and Facebook, to support public awareness and engagement in the department’s priority areas of activity.
In Internal Audit, the risk-based internal audit planning process was improved to focus limited internal audit resources on areas of highest risk for the department. The internal audit function’s role as assurance and advice provider to senior management was strengthened. Several internal audits and reviews were completed, the most significant of which was a review of Aviation Security Regulatory Oversight. Conflict of Interest, Fraud Risk Management, Economic Action Plan delivery, and Civil Aviation Oversight were some other areas where support was provided. Support for external auditors and for senior officials whose programs/functions were being audited was increased. The Audit Committee played an active role as advisor to the Deputy Minister on risks, controls and governance. There were first steps to improve tracking/assessment of follow-up on management action plan commitments in internal audit, external audit, and evaluation reports.
The Evaluation function helps the department by systematically examining departmental programs and providing credible information on their relevance and performance. Under an updated federal Policy on Evaluation, 100 percent of the department’s program activities must be evaluated every five years. Three major evaluations were approved in 2010-2011 and substantial progress was made on nine others, so the evaluation function is on track to meet its five-year 100 percent target by the March 2015. Evaluations of the Marine Safety program activity, Rail Passenger Stewardship and Support, Clean Transportation Theme, Transportation of Dangerous Goods, and Air Cargo Security in particular will contribute to the government’s base of evidence regarding policies and programs. An Evaluation Committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister, was established and held its first meeting. This Committee will approve evaluation reports, management action plans, and management updates on management action plan implementation.
Public service renewal initiatives at Transport Canada are being embedded as a change management approach to engage both managers and employees. In addition, to ensure that enabling functions such as financial management, human resources and information technology management are well aligned with its mandate and priorities, the department will continue to improve its integrated business planning process.