ARCHIVED - RPP 2007-2008
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
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In this section:
Surrounded by the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and home to the Great Lakes, Canada is one of the foremost
maritime nations in the world. Canada boasts the world's:
Providing access to Canadian waterways and ensuring the overall safety and
integrity of Canada's marine infrastructure for the benefit of all Canadians
|
- Longest coastline (243,792 kilometres) — stretched out as a continuous line, it would
circle the equator more than six times (25% of the world's coastline);
- Largest freshwater system — Canada's two million lakes and rivers cover 7.6% of its
landmass (755,000 square kilometres);
- Longest inland waterway (3,700 kilometres) — from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Lake
Superior;
- Largest archipelago — Canada's Arctic islands, including six of the world's 30 largest
islands, cover 1.4 million square kilometres; and
- World's greatest tidal range — 16 metres in the Bay of Fundy and Ungava Bay.
Canada's oceans and inland water system, and their resources, have played an important role in the country's
history, identity and culture. Eight of the 10 provinces and all three territories have ocean shorefront, and nearly a
quarter of Canadians live in coastal communities. Canada's inland water system — particularly the St. Lawrence
Seaway and the Great Lakes — has also played a pivotal role in Canada's development.
Canada's oceans, shorelines and inland waters support a growing number of industries and uses. Shipping, fishing,
aquaculture, ecotourism, boating, oil and gas extraction, and other ocean activities contribute an estimated $20
billion a year to the Canadian economy.
The Safe and Accessible Waterways strategic outcome is delivered through three program activities:
- Canadian Coast Guard;
- Small Craft Harbours; and
- Science.
Operating Environment
Marine traffic in Canadian waters is increasing along with the global marine economy, predicted to grow at around 3%
per year. Marine trade, expected to double over the next 20 years, is increasingly driven by trade with Asia. Because
marine infrastructure is critical to Canada's economic success, attention will be paid to key Canadian marine gateways
and corridors that enable global trade. Competition for waterways' usage is developing and internal water levels could
exhibit increased variance because of climate change, possibly affecting domestic shipping. Increased traffic demand
combined with an aging workforce is also applying pressure to the task of training and employing needed, certified
marine personnel.
Canadians want their government to enhance Canada's maritime security measures, strengthen marine border security,
and increase federal on-water presence and response capabilities in relation to a wide range of hazards, risks and
threats. Coast Guard's programs and assets have significant benefits that support the achievement of Canada's maritime
national security and public safety objectives. Coast Guard is now using and will continue to use its human resources
and physical assets to support the federal integrated response to emerging maritime security and emergency preparedness
priorities.
Canada will be enhancing its presence in the Arctic to better affirm Canadian sovereignty and to enhance security,
safety and sustainable development in that frontier, all while striving to maintain and improve service levels in
southern Canada. This calls for more capacity to enable activities like hydrographic charting and ocean science - such
as those planned in the Arctic for this International Polar Year - as well as CCG activities that ensure a high level
of navigation, icebreaking, safety and other services in northern waters. This will induce greater application of
ice-specific technologies and platforms in Canada's North.
Mariners and citizens expect Coast Guard to minimize loss of life, injuries and property damage resulting from
maritime incidents and to help secure and protect our oceans. Coast Guard will be held to higher standards of service
and to transparent, accountable and disciplined spending. Because Canadians identify a cleaner environment and
conservation of resources as key objectives, Coast Guard will move to improve its ecological footprint and operating
efficiency. Our response to this complex business environment is to work hard for Canadians to continue to earn their
trust through excellence in service as a Special Operating Agency. We will also think and act for the longer term in a
way that positions Coast Guard as a durable, bilingual institution and as a key instrument of national policy in
Canada's territorial waters and ocean domain.
The Small Craft Harbours (SCH) Program was created in 1973. The 2007-08 planning period will be characterized by a
continuing demand for services and support related to the operation and maintenance of a national system of harbours
critical to Canada's commercial fishing industry.
As of October 2006, the harbour inventory comprised property at 1,193 sites with individual assets numbering over
6,000 structural facilities. The overall value of the inventory is approximately $3.7 billion. This harbour
infrastructure protects many millions of dollars invested in fishing vessels and equipment, prevents coastal erosion
and damage, supports local economic development and employment, and offers refuge for mariners in distress. Currently,
the SCH Program provides commercial fishing harbour services in all provinces and territories with the exception of
Nunavut and the Yukon.
The Department's Science Program provides hydrographic and ocean science products and services that enable the
maritime transportation infrastructure of Canada, safe navigation, security, and sovereignty, as well as research,
monitoring, advice and data management to enable ocean and ice condition forecasts, including the potential impact of
climate change and variation on navigation.
The Science Program's Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) maintains an extensive portfolio of navigational products
and services that ensure safe navigation of Canadian waterways. The number of nautical charts within the CHS portfolio
is greater than that in any other country in the world, not including those that maintain worldwide coverage. Keeping
existing hydrographic charts up-to-date while also creating new ones is an ongoing challenge. The advent of electronic
charts and other technological advances in hydrography, such as multi-beam data collection, automated production,
database development and Internet portals, continue to change how the Canadian Hydrographic Service makes hydrographic
information available to Canadians.
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents (FTEs), Safe and Accessible Waterways
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Canadian Coast Guard |
590.1 |
634.0 |
632.2 |
Small Craft Harbours |
96.8 |
93.7 |
93.7 |
Science in support of Safe and Accessible Waterways |
36.5 |
36.4 |
36.4 |
Program Enablers1 |
151.9 |
143.2 |
142.9 |
Total |
875.2 |
907.2 |
905.1 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Canadian Coast Guard |
4,703 |
4,703 |
4,703 |
Small Craft Harbours |
126 |
126 |
126 |
Science in support of Safe and Accessible Waterways |
274 |
274 |
274 |
Program Enablers1 |
951 |
952 |
931 |
Total |
6,054 |
6,055 |
6,034 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on Program Enablers.
Program Activity: Canadian Coast Guard
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of maritime services that
contribute to the enhancement and maintenance of maritime safety and commerce; protection of marine and freshwater
environment; oceans and fisheries resource management; security; and other government maritime priorities via maritime
expertise, Canada's civilian fleet, a broadly distributed shore infrastructure, and collaboration with various
stakeholders.
Expected Results
- Minimal loss of life, injury and property damage resulting from marine incidents
- Effective and efficient management of waterways that support marine commerce
- Sustainability of the marine and freshwater environment through timely and effective response
- A marine infrastructure that provides efficient services to all clients
A visible symbol of Canadian identity and sovereignty, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) is recognized both nationally
and internationally as representing excellence in maritime services.
CCG is a Special Operating Agency within DFO that delivers its programs and services through the government's
civilian fleet of vessels and a broadly distributed shore infrastructure that includes marine communications and
traffic services centres, major bases, multi-tasked lifeboat stations, rescue centres with Canadian Forces, aids to
navigation, and hundreds of other assets, such as radio towers, throughout the country. CCG also manages and operates
the Canadian Coast Guard College in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
With its widely distributed fleet and shore infrastructure and personnel, CCG is instrumental in saving lives,
facilitating maritime commerce, responding effectively to pollution incidents, protecting the aquatic environment and
supporting maritime security. CCG stands ready to respond to national and international emergencies and disasters, such
as Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The CCG Agency also continues to support critical DFO and Government of Canada priorities
in scientific research and fisheries enforcement activities, including the assessment of the status of the fisheries
resource, the monitoring of ocean variability and change, and activities related to Canada's interests in the
International Polar Year and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Canadian Coast Guard
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Aids and Waterways Services |
95.3 |
90.7 |
90.7 |
Marine Communications and Traffic Services |
89.3 |
82.2 |
80.4 |
Icebreaking Services |
51.3 |
45.4 |
45.4 |
Search and Rescue Services |
104.7 |
103.6 |
103.6 |
Environmental Response Services |
11.3 |
11.3 |
11.3 |
Coast Guard College |
7.8 |
7.8 |
7.8 |
Maritime Security |
5.3 |
34.1 |
31.7 |
Coast Guard Fleet Services |
225.2 |
259.0 |
261.3 |
Sub-Total |
590.1 |
634.0 |
632.2 |
Program Enablers1 |
128.0 |
121.3 |
121.6 |
Total2 |
718.1 |
755.3 |
753.8 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Canadian Coast Guard |
4,703 |
4,703 |
4,703 |
Program Enablers1 |
796 |
795 |
778 |
Total |
5,499 |
5,498 |
5,481 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
2Totals do not reflect respendable revenue. For details on
respendable revenue, see the table Sources of Respendable and Non-Respendable Revenue.
Canadian Coast Guard Sub-activities
The Canadian Coast Guard program activity is delivered via nine program sub-activities:
- Aids and Waterways Services — delivering Aids to Navigation, Waterways Management, and Marine Safety
Information services to support marine safety, accessibility of waterways, and environmental protection, including
maintenance dredging of the Great Lakes Connecting Channels (treaty obligation);
- Marine Communications and Traffic Services — providing marine distress/safety communications and
coordination, conducting vessel screenings, regulating vessel traffic movement and providing information systems and
public correspondence on a 24/7 basis;
- Icebreaking Services — providing icebreaking and related services (ice routing and information, harbour
breakouts, information provision, routing assistance, etc.) to facilitate safe and expeditious movement of maritime
traffic through and around ice-covered Canadian waters;
- Search and Rescue Services — with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, providing and leading the maritime
search and rescue component of the federal search and rescue program with the primary goal of saving lives at risk in
Canada's maritime environment;
- Environmental Response Services — as the lead federal agency for ship-source spill response, delivering
environmental incident preparedness and response services that protect the marine environment under Canadian
jurisdiction and providing response assistance to other countries under international agreements (for north of 60°,
CCG is the sole response organization);
- Coast Guard College — operating as the Canadian Coast Guard's training authority; preparing marine
personnel to deliver Coast Guard services and programs to the highest of standards;
- Maritime Security — providing leadership of the Government of Canada's maritime security priorities within
Fisheries and Oceans Canada with a focus on the provision of on-water services, maritime domain awareness and
maritime expertise;
- Contribution to Other Government Objectives — delivery of civilian marine services (expertise, personnel
and infrastructure (vessels and aircraft)) on behalf of other government departments or in support of agencies and
organizations in the achievement of the Government of Canada's maritime priorities; and
- Coast Guard Fleet Services — management, operation and maintenance of the CCG fleet (vessels and aircraft)
for the purpose of delivering civilian marine services in support of the Government of Canada's maritime
priorities.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
The Department will focus on the following plans for CCG sub-activities during the current planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results1 |
Performance Indicators1 |
Aids and Waterways Services |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Safe and effective vessel transits and movements and access to ports
|
- Number of incidents attributed to aids to navigation
- Number of incidents attributed to waterways conditions
|
Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Reduced number and severity of maritime incidents with human, property and environmental consequences
- Efficient movement of shipping
|
- Number of incidents detected; shipping accidents — collisions, groundings and strikings
- Vessel movement per incident
|
Icebreaking Services |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Safe, timely and efficient vessel transits and movements through ice-infested waters
- Reduced flooding caused by ice jams (further resulting in less property damage and shore erosion)
- Enhanced Arctic sovereignty
|
- Number of vessels damaged by ice
- Number of flood control tasking
- Number of route assistance and ice information requests
- Icebreaker availability
|
Search and Rescue Services |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Minimized loss of life and injuries to people at risk in marine incidents
- Reduced number and severity of search and rescue incidents
|
- Percentage of lives saved relative to lives at risk
|
Environmental Response Services |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Minimized adverse impacts of marine pollution incidents
|
- Effectiveness of response to number of spills
|
Coast Guard College |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Highly qualified Canadian Coast Guard personnel providing safe and effective delivery of the Canadian Coast
Guard programs and services
- A Canadian Coast Guard ready to face current and future demographic changes
- National and international recognition for excellence in delivery of specialized marine training and
expertise to Canadian and international partners and clients
|
|
Maritime Security |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Recognition of CCG/DFO as a value-added and proactive partner in the delivery of multi-agency solutions for
enhanced maritime security
|
- Number of public security and anti-terrorism initiatives DFO/CCG is involved in
- Level of confidence of federal security community
|
Contribution to Other Government Objectives |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Client service requirements met in a safe and efficient manner
|
- Safe delivery — number, type and level of risk of hazardous occurrences; number and nature of
non-conformities
- Efficient delivery — vessel utilization percentage, vessel non-assignment percentage, actual
multi-tasking percentage
- Effective delivery — actual service delivery percentage, actual CCG and client delays
|
Coast Guard Fleet Services |
- Ongoing operations as described above this table
|
- Client service requirements met in a safe and efficient manner
|
- Safe delivery — number, type and level of risk of hazardous occurrences; number and nature of
non-conformities
- Efficient delivery — vessel utilization percentage, vessel non-assignment percentage, actual
maintenance percentage, actual multi-tasking percentage
- Effective delivery — actual service delivery percentage, actual CCG and client delays
|
1Under review.
Program Activity: Small Craft Harbours
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Operation and maintenance of a
national system of harbours critical to Canada's commercial fishing industry.
The Small Craft Harbours Program provides a sustainable network of approximately 750 core fishing harbours that are
maintained in good condition and are operated and managed effectively by local Harbour Authorities (HAs).
As part of the Departmental Renewal initiative, the Small Craft Harbours Program will continue to work on possible
new directions intended to place the Program on a more sustainable footing, while effectively responding to the
evolving needs of industry clients by providing appropriate infrastructure.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Core fishing harbours are operational and are repaired and maintained in good condition |
- Performance ratings at core fishing harbours
- Number of recreational and non-core fishing harbours divested
- Condition of facilities at core fishing harbours
|
Core fishing harbours are managed by an HA (while promoting and encouraging the amalgamation and
sharing of services to practically leverage resources and provide for greater HA capacity) |
- Percentage of core fishing harbours managed by Harbour Authorities
- Number of Harbour Authorities that manage more than one harbour
|
Harbour Authorities have tools to assist them in managing their facilities independently |
- Number of management tools for use by Harbour Authorities developed
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Small Craft Harbours
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Operations |
3.7 |
3.7 |
3.7 |
Maintenance |
91.0 |
87.9 |
87.9 |
Divestiture |
2.1 |
2.1 |
2.1 |
Sub-Total |
96.8 |
93.7 |
93.7 |
Program Enablers1 |
12.4 |
10.7 |
10.6 |
Total |
109.2 |
104.4 |
104.3 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Small Craft Harbours |
126 |
126 |
126 |
Program Enablers1 |
18 |
82 |
80 |
Total |
207 |
208 |
206 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Small Craft Harbours Sub-activities
The Small Craft Harbours program activity is delivered via three program sub-activities:
- Operations — operating, in collaboration with client-run Harbour Authorities, a national system of harbours
critical to Canada's commercial fishing industry; coordinating efforts to maintain and recruit Harbour Authorities;
providing support and guidance on harbour management; addressing the changing needs of commercial fishing and
aquaculture industries;
- Maintenance — providing strategic direction for harbour and facility development, repair and maintenance;
providing the comprehensive program and project planning required to develop and maintain essential harbours; and
promoting efficient and effective project delivery mechanisms to ensure harbour safety and optimal management of
client needs; and
- Divestiture — divesting harbours not essential for Canada's commercial fishing industry; monitoring
compliance with terms and conditions of divestiture agreements pursuant to divestiture of non-essential harbours;
implementing safety measures and ensuring minimal maintenance at non-essential harbours as required; and undertaking
pre-divestiture repairs or providing equivalent grants in support of divestiture.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Infrastructure maintenance accounts for the majority of the resources used to carry out Small Craft Harbours
sub-activities. In addition to infrastructure maintenance, the Department will focus on the following plans for Small
Craft Harbours sub-activities during the current planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Operations |
- Facilitate larger geographic groupings or shared services (harbour administration, operation and
professional management) among HAs to achieve better economies of scale
- Increase the number of existing essential fishing harbours managed by HAs
- Support the existing network of HA Advisory Committees at the area, regional and national levels as a means
of communicating between HAs and DFO and ensuring that these entities truly represent Harbour Authorities
- Assess DFO's national standard lease agreement with HAs to give HAs the ability to take advantage of other
funding opportunities, to clarify roles and responsibilities, to distinguish between property management and
harbour management, maintenance and operations and to ensure national consistency
- Develop and disseminate to all HAs national training packages, tools and guides for all aspects of harbour
management, maintenance and operations
- Develop and produce promotional tools to increase awareness of the HA program in local communities to
solicit the interest of new volunteers
- Ensure compliance with federal, provincial and municipal regulations
|
- Efficient and effective management of all essential fishing harbours by HAs
- Compliance with environmental and health and safety standards
|
- Percentage of existing core fishing harbours managed by HAs
- Percentage of core fishing harbours that have Environmental Management Plans in place
|
Maintenance |
- Identify and implement strategic opportunities to improve project delivery by investigating alternative
delivery mechanisms
- Increase the role of Harbour Authorities in project management
- Prepare and implement an annual expenditure plan on the basis of the project priority ranking process to
ensure that current harbour facilities have safe structural and operating conditions and accommodate changing
client mixes over the longer term
|
- Condition and functional adequacy of harbours essential for Canada's fishing industry that meet client
expectations
- Cost effective and efficient management of maintenance and repair activities
|
- Performance ratings at core fishing harbours
- Condition of facilities at core fishing harbours
- Recommended actions of joint PWGSC/SCH Committee on engineering fees and project management assessed and
implemented as appropriate and feasible
|
Divestiture |
- Conduct pre-divestiture repairs or provide grants, with priority going to those with the most urgent
requirements or best opportunities
|
- Recreational and low-activity fishing harbours are divested with minimal negative impact on
communities
- Non-essential fishing harbours pending divestiture are safe, and active recreational harbours remain
operational
|
- Number of recreational and low-activity fishing harbours divested per year
- Number of harbours divested annually versus total number of harbours to be divested
- Percentage of SCH total maintenance budget expended on non-essential fishing harbours and recreational
harbours pending divestiture
- Percentage of facilities at non-essential fishing harbours and of recreational harbours that are "fair",
"good" or "very good"
- Percentage of "fair", "good" or "very good" performance ratings at non-core harbours
|
Program Activity: Science
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research,
monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of safe and accessible waterways. These
functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government departments,
private sector, academia and international organizations.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Hydrographic and ocean science information, products and services used to support the maritime
transportation infrastructure of Canada and to ensure safe navigation and sovereignty |
- Proportion of service level targets met
- Amount of work completed versus planned for the preparation of Canada's claim to the continental shelf
beyond 200nm (UNCLOS)
- Annual distribution of hydrographic charts, publications and information brochures
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Providing products and services for navigation |
32.7 |
32.4 |
32.4 |
Supporting maritime safety and security and Canadian sovereignty |
3.7 |
4.0 |
4.0 |
Sub-total |
36.5 |
36.4 |
36.4 |
Program Enablers1 |
11.5 |
11.2 |
10.7 |
Total |
48.0 |
47.5 |
47.1 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Science |
274 |
274 |
274 |
Program Enablers1 |
74 |
75 |
73 |
Total |
348 |
349 |
347 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on Program Enablers.
Science Sub-activities
Science in support of safe and accessible waterways is delivered by means of two program sub-activities:
- Providing products and services for navigation — providing up-to-date, timely and accurate hydrographic
products and services through surveys, measures and charts that describe the physical features of Canada's oceans,
seas, rivers and lakes; and
- Supporting maritime safety and security and Canadian sovereignty — providing hydrographic data and
information to support territorial claims and international disputes associated with limits and boundaries, as well
as undertaking oceanographic research and monitoring that enable the forecasting of ocean conditions and provide
insight into the impacts of climate change on navigation.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of
safe and accessible waterways. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for
Science sub-activities in support of safe and accessible waterways during the current planning period.
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Providing Products and Services for Navigation |
- Continue to apply a risk-based approach and the level-of-service initiative to the management of the
hydrographic portfolio of navigational products
- Initiate the development of a model for increased private-sector participation in the printing and
distribution of Canadian Hydrographic Service navigational products
|
- Hydrographic chart coverage in Canadian waters
- Delivery and maintenance of navigation products based on risk classification and Levels of Service
- Access to and use of navigation tools by mariners and industry
- Integration of nautical information and products
|
- Proportion of service level targets met
- Annual distribution of hydrographic charts, publications and information brochures
|
Supporting Maritime Safety and Security and Canadian Sovereignty |
- Provide information, data and evidence to prepare Canada's submission to the United Nations Commission for
the Limits of the Continental Shelf; plans for 2007-08 include a winter through the ice survey in the Eastern
Arctic, an icebreaker-based survey in the Western Arctic and seismic surveys in the Atlantic
- Continue to collaborate with the Department of National Defence (DND) to develop a common database and
source-capture methodology to support interoperability between Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) and Digital
Nautical Chart (DNC) products
|
- Increased ability to forecast ocean events and ice conditions, resulting in improved decision-making
- Increased hydrographic and ocean event data available to users to ensure security and safety (e.g. DND,
RCMP, CCG)
- Increased data to delineate the limits of offshore Canadian jurisdiction
|
- Amount of work completed versus planned for preparation of Canada's claim to the continental shelf beyond
200nm (UNCLOS)
|
Delivering an integrated fisheries and aquaculture program that is credible,
science based, affordable, and effective, and contributes to sustainable wealth for Canadians
|
Commercial and recreational fishing are important sources of revenue in parts of Canada where few other economic
opportunities exist. The Atlantic fishing industry employs more than 84,000 people, and the Pacific fisheries provide
employment for 14,000 fishers and plant workers. Despite declines in the historically valuable groundfish stocks of
Atlantic Canada and the lucrative salmon fisheries of the Pacific coast, abundant harvests of snow crab, lobster and
shrimp are pushing Canadian fishery exports to new highs. In 2004, Canada's fish and seafood exports reached $4.5
billion - the highest value on record. And Canadian sport fishing continues to inject billions of dollars into local
economies each year.
Canada's commercial fishery is characterized by a multitude of small operators and a handful of large vertically
integrated companies that are continually faced with challenges in light of a complex mix of biological, economic and
social factors. After record landed values in the commercial fishery in 2004, the industry is now facing a number of
important economic and resource issues. A high Canadian dollar against the US dollar is hurting our exports of fishery
products, as 80% of Canada's fish is sold in US dollars. Global competition, in particular low-cost producers from
China, as well as price and resource declines in Atlantic shellfish and Pacific salmon fisheries, are hampering the
long-term viability of harvesting and processing operations that are crucial to many rural and remote coastal
communities.
The viability of many of Canada's coastal communities is directly linked to the health of the fisheries. As world
demand for fish and seafood products soars, there is a need to be increasingly vigilant about the health of our
fisheries and the integrity of the ecosystems that support them. New technologies have made it easier to catch and
process far more fish than can be harvested sustainably. In other words, there simply may not be enough wild fish to
keep pace with the rising demand.
The decline of some historically valuable stocks in the 1990s made it clear that ecosystems are complex living
systems that respond to human activity and global environmental changes in unpredictable and variable ways. Sustainable
fisheries management is essential to maximizing and sustaining the prosperity afforded by the marine resources and to
achieving social and economic objectives. Sustainable fisheries management relies on robust scientific information and
advice, sustainable resource management and fishing practices, and effective compliance with rules and regulations.
Fisheries Management Renewal (FMR) is a package of program renewal undertakings that promote a strong and healthy
resource and an improved relationship with resource users and other stakeholders. It sets out to achieve four
objectives: strong conservation outcomes, shared stewardship, stable access and allocation, and effective compliance.
The FMR agenda is being implemented in concert with Science Renewal, especially in regard to the achievement of strong
conservation outcomes, which include an increasing focus on the scientific study and evaluation of Canada's aquatic
ecosystems. The renewal agenda recognizes that Canada's fisheries can be sustainable over the short and long term only
if there is conservation and sustainable use of the resource and if the fishing industry is viable.
The growing world demand for fish, coupled with the inability of wild fish stocks to sustainably meet demand, has
kindled much interest in aquaculture - the farming of fish, shellfish and aquatic plants. Aquaculture currently
produces nearly one-third of the fish and shellfish consumed worldwide; by 2010, it could account for nearly half of
the world's fisheries production. In Canada, aquaculturists are cultivating everything from salmon and halibut to
mussels and scallops. In doing so, they are bringing much-needed economic diversification to many coastal
communities.
This strategic outcome is about delivering an integrated fisheries and aquaculture program that is credible, science
based, affordable, and effective, and contributes to sustainable wealth for Canadians. This will result in sustainable
fisheries and aquaculture. Ensuring conservation and sustainable use of Canada's fisheries resources depends on sound
scientific research and advice and on the development of a modernized fisheries management regime that is integrated
with the broader oceans management agenda.
This strategic outcome is delivered through three program activities:
- Fisheries Management;
- Aquaculture; and
- Science.
Operating Environment
DFO continues to pursue a renewal agenda that focuses on modernizing the decision-making system and building new
relationships with resource users based on shared stewardship. Efforts will be guided by the principles of
ecosystem-based management, predictability, stability and transparency. The challenge is to create the conditions for
improving the economic viability and performance of the fishing and aquaculture sectors.
These changes are essential to meeting the challenges of the Species at Risk Act, mitigating the effects of
climate change and achieving sustainable fisheries. DFO will work with other levels of government and resource users to
develop recovery strategies for fisheries facing serious conservation and socio-economic challenges.
The Department is committed to fostering the growth of a sustainable aquaculture industry. It will do this by
enhancing public confidence in the sector, increasing the industry's global competitiveness, seeking to maintain a
healthy environment, ensuring healthy fish products and cooperatively managing aquatic resources based on sound
science.
Directly related to the Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture strategic outcome are a number of departmental and
Government of Canada initiatives and priorities that the Department's Science Program must support. These include the
International Fisheries and Oceans Governance Strategy, Aquatic Invasive Species, and the National Aquatic Animal
Health Program, as well as important horizontal initiatives such as the Canadian Biotechnology Strategy.
In addition to these initiatives, departmental priorities associated with fisheries renewal and the Aquaculture
Framework Agreement will also require Science support to ensure that associated policies, programs and regulations have
a sound foundation in the natural sciences and a reasonable likelihood of achieving their intended goals and
outcomes.
Given the increasing demand for science, the challenge of supporting numerous separate although related initiatives,
and the growing complexity of science-based issues, the Science Program continues to implement a strategy that reflects
the need for an ecosystem-based approach, as well as flexibility to respond to emerging departmental and federal
priorities in the interest of Canadians.
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Fisheries Management |
282.3 |
277.0 |
274.5 |
Aquaculture |
3.9 |
3.9 |
3.9 |
Science in support of Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture |
134.3 |
130.3 |
128.9 |
Program Enablers1 |
126.0 |
126.5 |
122.7 |
Total |
546.5 |
537.7 |
530.1 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Fisheries Management |
1,445 |
1,445 |
1,445 |
Aquaculture |
29 |
29 |
29 |
Science in support of Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture |
993 |
987 |
986 |
Program Enablers1 |
732 |
729 |
703 |
Total |
3,198 |
3,190 |
3,163 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Program Activity: Fisheries Management
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Conservation of Canada's fisheries
resources to ensure sustainable resource utilization through close collaboration with resource users and
stakeholders.
Expected Results |
- Conservation of stocks and habitat
- Sustainable resource use for present and future generations
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Fisheries Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Resource Management |
66.0 |
64.9 |
64.9 |
Aboriginal Policy and Governance |
61.7 |
58.7 |
56.8 |
Salmon Enhancement Program |
29.0 |
29.0 |
29.0 |
International Fisheries Conservation |
7.5 |
7.5 |
7.5 |
Conservation and Protection |
118.2 |
116.9 |
116.4 |
Sub-Total |
282.3 |
277.0 |
274.5 |
Program Enablers1 |
68.2 |
67.1 |
66.1 |
Total |
350.5 |
344.1 |
340.6 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Fisheries Management |
1,445 |
1,445 |
1,445 |
Program Enablers1 |
461 |
464 |
448 |
Total |
1,906 |
1,909 |
1,893 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Fisheries Management Sub-activities
This program activity is delivered via five program sub-activities:
- Resource management — delivering policies, programs and plans, in partnership with industry, to manage and
protect fishery resources, to ensure sustainability and provide for the fair allocation and distribution of
harvestable surpluses among those dependent on the resource;
- Aboriginal policy and governance — providing policy advice on Aboriginal fishing issues, negotiating
agreements on the management of Aboriginal fisheries, integrating agreements into overall management frameworks,
advising on land claims and self-government, and promoting fisheries-related economic opportunities for Aboriginal
communities;
- Salmon Enhancement Program — focusing on fish production to preserve vulnerable stocks and sustain
fisheries, increasing public awareness and building community involvement capacity;
- International fisheries conservation — negotiating and administering international treaties and agreements
affecting conservation, allocations, the conduct of bilateral and multilateral fisheries relations with other
countries, the settlement of fisheries issues related to maritime boundary disputes, and the formulation and
presentation of international fisheries conservation advice to the Minister; and
- Conservation and protection — deploying Fishery Officers to ensure compliance with the legislation,
regulations and fishing plans relating to conservation and sustainable use of the resource through promotion,
monitoring and enforcement.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Fisheries Management sub-activities.
In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Fisheries Management
sub-activities during the current planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Resource Management |
- Lead the Integrated Fisheries Management Plans (IFMP) process and delivery of IFMP (over 180 IFMPs in 6
regions) that:
Protect fish stocks and marine mammals to ensure future abundance
Provide for fair and
transparent decision-making regarding access to and allocation of harvestable fisheries resources
- Manage Aboriginal, commercial and recreational fisheries in accordance with legislation, departmental
policies, IFMPs and fishing plans
- Develop and deliver policies, programs and consultations that support sustainable fisheries and
conservation of fishery resources
|
- IFMPs
- Economic and social benefits from fisheries while ensuring conservation of stocks
- Improved inter-fleet and inter-province relations over fisheries
- Increased acceptance of decision processes
|
|
Aboriginal Policy and Governance |
- DFO will continue to work with First Nations and Aboriginal groups to achieve an integrated fishery; DFO's
priority is an integrated, strong and sustainable fishery with opportunity for all fishers
- Negotiate and implement agreements on the management of Aboriginal food, social and ceremonial and
commercial fisheries
- Improve administrative governance structures and expertise around the use and management of aquatic
resources and ocean spaces that can be employed in broader spheres of governance while easing the transition to
modern treaties and comprehensive claims
- Negotiate, support and implement land claims and self-government agreements
- Integrate agreements into overall management frameworks
- Promote fisheries-related economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities
|
- Increased integration of Aboriginal peoples in the commercial fishing industry
- Increased participation of Aboriginal groups in fisheries co-management activities
- Increased and more effective participation of Aboriginal groups in DFO/multi-stakeholder aquatic resource
and oceans management structures and processes
- More collaborative relations among DFO, Aboriginal groups and non-Aboriginal resource users
|
- Extent of Aboriginal participation in fisheries management committees, boards, and other decision-making
bodies under agreements
- Number of funding agreements dedicated to co-management projects
- Number of individuals employed full-time on fisheries-related projects sponsored by the agreements
|
Salmon Enhancement Program (SEP) |
- Continue fish production to preserve vulnerable stocks and sustain fisheries
- Conduct public involvement programs to increase public awareness and build community involvement and
capacity
- Undertake habitat restoration for salmon to restore, rebuild and sustain populations
- Assess and coordinate regional enhancement activities
|
- Fishery opportunities
- Enhancement supported recovery of vulnerable stocks
- Increased awareness and stewardship to conserve and protect fish and fish habitat
- Improvement of fish habitat
- Coordinated and consistent approach to enhancement activities (linked to other sub-activities)
|
- Number of sustainable fishing opportunities directed toward enhanced stocks
- Number of stocks enhanced as part of a recovery strategy
- Number of people (stewards, volunteers, students and others) participating in stewardship activities
- Number of watersheds with restored habitat
- Maintenance of SEP databases (production targets, fish production and SEP assessment)
- Inclusion of SEP production targets in North and South Coast IFMPs
|
International Fisheries Conservation |
- Participate in multilateral fisheries conservation organizations and regional fisheries management
- Provide strategic advice to the Minister and senior officials and contribute to domestic fisheries and
marine mammals management with respect to considerations related to international components; international
bilateral and multilateral issues, including eliminating IUU fishing; appointments of Canadian representatives
to international organizations; status of fisheries relations; proposals from stakeholders
- Develop and maintain bilateral fisheries relations and, where appropriate, formalize them under MOUs or
agreements on fisheries cooperation
- Conduct consultations with industry and other stakeholders
- Lead bilateral and multilateral fisheries relations with international counterparts on overfishing and
international fisheries governance
- Undertake targeted diplomatic interventions to advocate Canada's strategy on addressing overfishing and to
gain international support for these efforts
- Provide Canadian embassies with intelligence and strategic advice to advance Canadian fisheries
conservation objectives abroad
- Negotiate agreements to advance Canada's fisheries and conservation interests
- Participate in the negotiation, administration and review of international legal instruments affecting the
long-term sustainability of fisheries and their related and dependent species
|
- Sustainable conservation targets consistent with scientific advice
- Compliance with conservation targets
- Sound international fisheries governance consistent with international obligations
|
- State of international fish stocks managed by RFMOs of which Canada is a member
- Extent to which management measures of international fish stocks reflect sustainable conservation targets
consistent with scientific advice
- Annual compliance review reports published in all RFMOs
|
Conservation and Protection |
- Coordinated effort toward setting program priorities and resource allocation by C&P managers (national
headquarters, regional headquarters, area offices) ensuring the effective deployment of C&P personnel to
promote compliance and deter non-compliance in relation to legislation and departmental management measures
related to:
International
fisheries
Commercial fisheries
Recreational fisheries
Aboriginal fisheries
Canadian Shellfish
Sanitation Program
Aquaculture Management
Habitat Management
Oceans Management
Species at risk
Maritime security
|
- Enhanced compliance with legislation, regulations and management measures (conditions of permits, licences,
authorizations, orders, etc.)
- Stabilization of human, financial and material resources to support the effective operational capacity of
the program
- Effective deterrence against illegal fishing activities in the NAFO Regulatory Area
- Increased compliance with NAFO conservation and enforcement measures
|
- Feedback from clients, stakeholders, public
- Trend analysis of:
Number of violations per
unit of monitoring effort
Level of civil
disobedience
Number of
convictions/charges laid
Average amount of
fines
Number of violent incidents
per hours of patrol
- Stabilization of major non-compliance issues to an acceptable level
- Extent of funding and staffing of identified essential positions
- Demonstrated readjustment of funding allocations to priorities
- Change in number of:
Air surveillance hours and
fishing vessels identified on or outside of the East Coast 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone boundary
C&P vessel patrol days
in the NAFO Regulatory Area
Canadian inspections on
fishing vessels at sea in the NAFO Regulatory Area
Canadian inspections on
fishing vessels in Canadian ports
Canadian inspections on
fishing vessels from foreign countries
Infringements
prosecuted/followed up by contracting parties
Infringements detected per
inspection conducted and per air and sea surveillance hours
- Level of fishing activity in the NAFO Regulatory Area by NAFO contracting and non-NAFO vessels
|
Program Activity: Aquaculture
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Creation of conditions for a vibrant
and innovative aquaculture industry that is environmentally and socially responsible, economically viable and
internationally competitive.
DFO's vision for aquaculture development in Canada is to benefit Canadians through the culture of aquatic organisms
while upholding the ecological and socio-economic values associated with Canada's oceans and inland waters. DFO is the
lead organization for the aquaculture file at the federal level. DFO's aquaculture functions are provided through a
horizontally managed and integrated intradepartmental approach, in collaboration with other federal departments,
provincial and territorial governments, industry, the private sector, non-government organizations, and other
stakeholders.
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Aquaculture
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Aquaculture |
3.9 |
3.9 |
3.9 |
Program Enablers1 |
1.1 |
1.1 |
1.0 |
Total |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Aquaculture |
29 |
29 |
29 |
Program Enablers1 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
Total |
37 |
37 |
37 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Aquaculture activities (there are no
sub-activities). In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Aquaculture
activities during the current planning period.
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
- Aquaculture Renewal: Streamlining and harmonizing the legal framework and addressing longstanding gaps in
strategic support available to the sector to position the industry for enhanced profitability, self-sufficiency
and international competitiveness
- Program for Sustainable Aquaculture: Assess and mitigate aquaculture's potential impacts on aquatic
ecosystems through scientific R&D; partnering with industry; collaborating with other government
departments to maintain consumer and market confidence in the safety and quality of aquaculture products
- Aquaculture management: All mandated or legislated activities such as Introduction and Transfers of aquatic
organisms, Access to Wild Resources for aquaculture purposes, site access/ application requirements
|
- A federal legislative and regulatory framework more responsive to public and industry needs that includes
strengthened measures to protect human health and is based on scientific knowledge that supports
decision-making (informed and objective decision-making)
- Efficient coordination of and reporting on aquaculture activities (including budgeting and reporting)
across the Department and regions for the Program for Sustainable Aquaculture and aquaculture more
generally
- Aquaculturists have the tools needed to become self-sufficient, address emerging needs and priorities,
compete effectively in domestic and international markets, and create and seize opportunities in the areas of
science and innovation, food safety and environmental stewardship (sound and integrated governance)
|
- Mandate sought for Aquaculture Renewal initiative
- Variance from planned resourcing (actual versus planned expenditures) for the Program for Sustainable
Aquaculture
- Level of stakeholder confidence and perception of aquaculture gauged through ongoing consultations on major
aquaculture files
|
Program Activity: Science
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research,
monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
These functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government
departments, private sector, academia and international organizations.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
- Science advice to inform the sustainable harvest of wild and cultured fish and other aquatic resources, and
to contribute to sustainable wealth
|
- Scientific production by Fisheries and Oceans
- Level of scientific partnering
- Canadian confidence in DFO Science
- Number of responses to requests for science advice
- Variance from planned resourcing
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Monitoring and assessing the status of fishery resources |
64.8 |
60.9 |
60.8 |
Supporting the assessment and recovery of species at risk |
2.8 |
2.8 |
2.8 |
Researching aquatic invasive species and monitoring aquatic animal diseases |
18.3 |
18.3 |
18.3 |
Supporting sustainable aquaculture and understanding aquaculture-environment interactions |
12.6 |
12.6 |
12.6 |
Applying genomics and biotechnology to aquatic ecosystems |
3.4 |
3.4 |
3.4 |
Contributing to science management in DFO and the Government of Canada |
32.4 |
32.3 |
31.1 |
Sub-total |
134.3 |
130.3 |
128.9 |
Program Enablers1 |
56.7 |
58.4 |
55.6 |
Total |
191.0 |
188.6 |
184.5 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Science |
993 |
987 |
986 |
Program Enablers1 |
263 |
257 |
247 |
Total |
1,256 |
1,244 |
1,233 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Science Sub-activities
Science in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture is delivered through six program sub-activities:
- Monitoring and assessing the status of fishery resources — providing scientific advice on the status of
stocks and conservation objectives for fish, invertebrate and marine mammals, in support of decision-making on
sustainable harvest levels and international negotiations on the management of straddling stocks;
- Supporting the assessment and recovery of species at risk — conducting research and monitoring, including
strategies, action plans and identification of critical habitat, to provide advice on the status of aquatic species,
the issuance of permits and agreements, and the recovery of species at risk;
- Researching aquatic invasive species and monitoring aquatic animal diseases — providing advice, including
surveillance, detection and reporting of diseases of national and international importance in wild and cultured
aquatic animals, to assist efforts to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species and animal diseases and to
control them when they are introduced;
- Supporting sustainable aquaculture and understanding aquaculture-environment interactions — undertaking
research directed toward improved production and environmental performance of the aquaculture industry and the
increased understanding of interactions between aquaculture and the environment;
- Applying genomics and biotechnology to aquatic ecosystems — developing and adopting leading-edge genomics
and biotechnology tools to improve the Department's ability to protect endangered species, manage opening and closing
of fisheries, avoid overexploitation of resources, prosecute poachers, improve aquaculture practices, control disease
outbreaks, remediate contaminated sites, and regulate aquatic organisms with novel traits; and
- Contributing to science management in DFO and the Government of Canada — providing national management
functions to support the Science Program within the Department and across federal science-based departments and
agencies.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of
sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following
plans for Science sub-activities in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture during the current planning
period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Monitoring and Assessing the Status of Fishery Resources |
- Support Canada's strategy to curb overfishing and strengthen international fisheries governance by
improving knowledge of the structure, functioning and properties of high seas ecosystems, as well as the
ecological impacts of fishing
- Assist Fisheries and Aquaculture Management in applying the precautionary approach, implementing the
Pacific Wild Salmon Policy and the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy, and providing advice on conservation
objectives
|
- Increased knowledge of stock-specific conservation requirements and the impacts of harvesting for use by
decision-makers
- Increased knowledge of sustainable fisheries practices for use by industry and subsistence fishers
|
|
Supporting the Assessment and Recovery of Species at Risk |
- Provide information to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada in support of its
efforts to identify and assess species that may be at risk
- Provide advice on the issuance of Species at Risk Act (SARA) permits and agreements by the
Minister of Fisheries and Oceans under Sections 73 and 74 of the Act
- Provide advice on the recovery of species at risk; this includes developing and implementing recovery
strategies and action plans, identifying habitats and evaluating the chances of recovery
- Support consultations on species that are candidates for Schedule 1 listing
|
- Increased knowledge to support recommendations for SARA listing and for the issuing of permits
- Increased knowledge in support of actions for the recovery of listed species
|
|
Researching Aquatic Invasive Species and Monitoring Aquatic Animal Diseases |
- Continue implementing Canada's Action Plan to Address the Threat of Aquatic Invasive Species by undertaking
research and conducting risk assessments to address high-priority species, pathways of invasion and geographic
locations; work will continue on planning activities associated with the rapid response to newly discovered
introductions, and the development of the national Aquatic Invasive Species database; methodologies for
detecting new invasions and tracking the spread of established populations will be examined
- Continue implementing the National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP); Science will establish a National
Diagnostic and Research Laboratory System for the delivery of information required to support new aquatic
animal health regulations being developed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- Assist with the development of new aquatic animal health regulations under Canadian Food Inspection
Agency's Health of Animals Act and work with the Agency to ensure delivery of federal
responsibilities
|
- Increased knowledge of pathways, controls and impacts of aquatic invasive species for use by
decision-makers
- Enhanced ability to prevent serious disease outbreaks and certify aquatic animal health status in support
of the Canadian fish/seafood trade
|
|
Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture and Understanding Aquaculture-Environment
Interactions |
- Develop and operationalize a national integrated aquaculture science framework
- Provide scientific information and advice on the interactions between aquaculture and the environment,
notably on the science underpinning aquaculture performance, monitoring requirements, operational standards and
best management practices
- Coordinate and engage in collaborative research and development in support of sustainable aquaculture and
the commercialization of innovations
|
- Increased knowledge for use by decision-makers for the development of aquaculture policies and
guidelines
- Increased knowledge of sustainable aquaculture practices for use by the aquaculture industry
|
|
Applying Genomics and Biotechnology to Aquatic Ecosystems |
- Continue to identify genetic markers to improve species and strain identification
- Develop and apply genomic tools to detect and monitor aquatic animal diseases, as well as environmental
stress in aquatic ecosystems
- Develop bio-remediation technologies to support remediation of contaminated sites
- Conduct research on the genetics, biology, physiology, behaviour and fitness of novel and transgenic fish
in support of the Department's regulatory obligations to administer the New Substances Notification Regulations
under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act
- Continue to fulfil a regulatory role through implementation of the New Substances Program for notifications
of aquatic animals with novel traits, including genetically engineered fish for import or manufacture; also
develop new aquatic-specific regulations
|
- Increased incorporation of biotechnology and genomics information in scientific information and advice by
decision-makers managing aquatic resources
- Increased knowledge and capacity to regulate aquatic animals with novel traits
- Improved processes for evaluation/approval of aquatic animals with novel traits
|
|
Contributing to Science Management in DFO and the Government of Canada |
- Continue to implement the renewal of the Science Program with a view to finishing in the next two to five
years
- Continue to integrate the Department's science and technology efforts with the broader national agenda for
science and technology (e.g., the Federal Laboratory Infrastructure Project)
- Pursue opportunities to build knowledge and recognition of DFO's scientific achievements through strategic
public outreach initiatives with national partners
|
- Increased understanding of use of resources (e.g., financial, human, facilities)
- More effective participation in departmental and interdepartmental S&T initiatives
|
- Variance from planned resourcing
|
Sustainable development and integrated management of resources in or around
Canada's aquatic environment through oceans and fish habitat management
|
Oceans and Habitat Sector, with support from Science Sector, is primarily responsible for the development and
protection of the aquatic environment. Sustainable development is the fundamental principle that guides this strategic
outcome - supporting a balanced approach to a wide range of economic opportunities while meeting important
environmental protection needs and supporting the social needs of communities, including those of Aboriginal
peoples.
Oceans and Habitat Sector applies the principle of sustainable development to oceans and habitat management by
adopting key practices such as the precautionary approach, integrated management, ecosystem and watershed planning,
partnering arrangements with stakeholders and effective and efficient regulation. Science Sector provides scientific
research, monitoring, advice, data management and products and services to support the integrated management of oceans.
Together, the two sectors work with other federal agencies, provincial and territorial governments, municipalities,
industry sectors, Aboriginal people, non-government organizations, academia and others who represent a full spectrum of
socio-economic activities and environmental interests, both domestically and internationally. These partnerships
facilitate the conservation and sustainable use of Canada's oceans; enable the conservation and protection of
freshwater and marine fish habitat; and ensure the provision of timely and up-to-date scientific knowledge and
products.
The clientele is diverse, ranging from traditional water users related to fishing, marine transportation and energy
development, to growing industries such as mining, aquaculture, tourism and oil and gas exploration and production.
Operating Environment
Oceans are an inherent part of Canada's environmental, social, cultural and economic fabric. However, the diverse
needs of multiple oceans users place a great deal of pressure on marine resources. The current and forecast strong
economic growth resulting from both onshore and offshore development will have a significant impact on oceans both now
and for the foreseeable future. Consequently, modern oceans management arrangements must deal with a number of
challenges including oceans health, marine habitat loss, declining biodiversity, growing demands for access to ocean
resources and regulatory and jurisdictional complexities. There is a clear need to manage oceans activities in a
sustainable way if the potential benefits to local communities are to be realized while ensuring that the oceans
environments are protected.
As the administrative authority for the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act, the
Department's Habitat Management Program (HMP) is the key federal environmental regulator for most development projects
that occur in and around marine and freshwater ecosystems across Canada. On an annual basis some 9,000-10,000 projects,
commonly known as referrals, are submitted to HMP for review of the impact on fish and fish habitat and to ensure
compliance with the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act. These include a wide range of small to
large development projects (from docks and water crossings to aquaculture, mining, hydro and oil and gas development)
that can result in a variety of small- to large-scale impacts on fish and fish habitat. The regulatory decisions taken
by DFO under the Fisheries Act as a result of these reviews must be made in a manner that respects the
legislative requirements of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) and the Species at Risk
Act (SARA). These decisions have significant implications for industry, communities and individuals, as well as
for sustainable development.
Because of the continuing surge in economic development activities taking place across Canada, particularly in
natural resource-based economic sectors and in the North, HMP has faced increasing operational and financial program
capacity pressures over the past few years. The Program is also dealing with the referral of more complex projects for
regulatory review and environmental assessment. In addition, there are heightened expectations for stakeholder
consultations, as well as higher legal thresholds for consultations with Aboriginal communities.
While Canada's Oceans Action Plan is focused on clearly defined deliverables and outputs, it also serves as a
broader conceptual umbrella for a wide range of marine activities for both the Department and the Government of Canada.
These activities include the International Fisheries and Oceans Governance Strategy, integrated oceans management and
Marine Protected Areas, as well as scientific advice and support on offshore energy development and climate change.
These initiatives and departmental priorities associated with the Environmental Process Modernization Plan (EPMP) in
the Habitat Management Program will require support from Science to ensure that associated policies, programs and
regulations have a sound foundation in the natural sciences and a reasonable likelihood of achieving their intended
goals and outcomes.
Given the increasing demand for science, the challenge of supporting numerous separate but related initiatives, and
the growing complexity of science-based issues and ocean uses, the Science Program continues to adopt a strategy that
reflects the need for an ecosystem-based approach, as well as flexibility to respond to emerging departmental and
federal priorities in the interests of Canadians.
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Oceans Management |
15.9 |
15.9 |
15.9 |
Habitat Management |
62.2 |
61.8 |
57.8 |
Science in support of Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems |
51.8 |
51.7 |
50.2 |
Program Enablers1 |
45.0 |
48.0 |
45.3 |
Total |
174.9 |
177.4 |
169.1 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Oceans Management |
118 |
118 |
118 |
Habitat Management |
496 |
496 |
496 |
Science in support of Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems |
405 |
405 |
405 |
Program Enablers1 |
257 |
260 |
243 |
Total |
1,276 |
1,279 |
1,262 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Program Activity: Oceans Management
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Conservation and sustainable use of
Canada's oceans, in collaboration with others, through integrated oceans management plans which include marine
protected areas and marine environmental quality objectives.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
- Marine activities proactively managed and the health of Canada's oceans preserved in collaboration with
stakeholders
|
- Number of integrated management plans developed to collaboratively manage oceans activities within Large
Ocean Management Areas (LOMAs); related measures that should be determinable near the end of the planning
period are the number of identified activities or management strategies within plans that have moved to the
implementation phase
- Number of Ecosystem Overview and Assessment Report processes that have been completed
- Number of high-priority ecologically and biologically significant sites that have adequate conservation
measures in place
- Effectiveness of governance bodies established across the country
- Number of government-wide or multi-departmental policies developed as a result of the Integrated Oceans
Management process both regionally and nationally
- Number of data integration and dissemination nodes
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Oceans Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Integrated Management |
5.4 |
5.45.4 |
|
Marine Protected Areas |
2.3 |
2.3 |
2.3 |
Other Oceans Management |
8.2 |
8.2 |
8.2 |
Sub-total |
15.9 |
15.9 |
15.9 |
Program Enablers1 |
5.3 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
Total |
21.2 |
21.0 |
21.0 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Oceans Management |
118 |
118 |
118 |
Program Enablers1 |
32 |
32 |
32 |
Total |
150 |
150 |
150 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Oceans Management Sub-activities
The Oceans Management program activity is delivered through three program sub-activities:
- Integrated Management — adopting spatially based planning and management processes of Canada's ocean
resources, through the use of an ecosystem-based approach to manage, conserve and protect sensitive marine
ecosystems.
- Marine Protected Areas — designating Marine Protected Areas to protect priority sensitive marine areas
through special regulatory measures.
- Other Oceans Management — strengthening domestic and international leadership in oceans management through
collaborative partnerships with other federal departments, Aboriginal organizations, provincial and territorial
jurisdictions, international organizations, academic researchers and industry interest groups. This will enable the
roll-out of coherent policies and programs that effectively address oceans management opportunities and
challenges.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Oceans Management sub-activities. In
addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Oceans Management sub-activities
during the current planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Integrated Management |
- Develop guidance documents to support the advancement of integrated management within LOMAs
- Develop regional and national governance structures to support the development and implementation of
Integrated Management Plans
- Finalize Ecological Overview and Assessment Reports for each LOMA and identify Ecologically and
Biologically Significant Areas, Species and Properties and establishment of Ecosystem Objectives
- Develop an Integrated Management Plan for each LOMA
- Collaborate with the Oceans Task Group of the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers to
advance oceans management issues of interest to both levels of government
- Undertake seabed mapping in five priority areas for integrated management planning and to support
delineation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
- Support federal activities to advance the Arctic Marine Strategic Plan, through participation in the Arctic
Council's Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment working group and its Ecosystem Expert Group, for
advancing an ecosystem-based management approach in the Arctic
- Continue to apply ecosystem-based management approaches in trans-boundary areas in cooperation with the
United States (e.g., Gulf of Maine, Beaufort Sea within context of the Arctic Council)
- Share ecosystem-based management approaches
|
- Governance structures in place to coordinate and effectively manage oceans activities
- Integrated Management Plan for each LOMA that is endorsed by partners and stakeholders
- A complementary Canada-US approach to ecosystem-based management including monitoring and assessment on a
large scale (Large Marine Ecosystems, LOMAs)
|
- Regional Implementation Committees and Stakeholder Advisory Committees (or equivalents) have been
established for each LOMA
- Technical working groups established where appropriate to provide expert advice to Regional Implementation
Committees
- Ecological Overview and Assessment Reports are complete for each LOMA
- Number of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas are identified within each LOMA
- Number of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Species and Properties are identified within each
LOMA
- An Integrated Management Plan has been created for each LOMA
- An Ecological Overview and Assessment Report of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem
- A common approach to ecosystem-based management in the Beaufort Sea LOMA, including the selection of scale
indicators for monitoring and assessing the ecosystem and setting ecosystem objectives
|
Marine Protected Areas |
- Complete designation process for remaining Areas of Interest
- Identify candidate MPAs in the five LOMAs as building blocks of the national MPA network
- Develop and implement management plans for the designated MPAs
- Implement the federal MPA strategy to establish a federal network of marine protected areas
- Refine tools and processes for MPA designation and implementation (e.g., social science research
questions)
- Explore opportunities to address cross-boundary conservation issues
- Communicate the government-wide strategy for MPAs
|
- Improved understanding of the health and viability of marine ecosystems and their associated living
resources
- Priority ecologically and biologically significant areas are conserved to ensure continued ecosystem
sustainability of the Canadian marine environment
|
- Number of Areas of Interest in each LOMA
- Number of priority ecologically and biologically significant areas that may lead to the creation of
MPAs
- Number of DFO MPAs established
- Number of DFO MPAs with management plans completed
- Number of Protected Areas (including those designated by Parks Canada and Environment Canada) per year
|
Other Oceans Management |
- Facilitate engagement of partners and stakeholders in policy and program development
- Enable the development of a comprehensive network of policies, programs and approaches supported by a
common knowledge base
|
- More integrated management regime with strengthened leadership for conservation and sustainable use of our
oceans
- Better informed policies and programs by all levels of government, Aboriginal organizations and other
stakeholders
- Complementary approach to oceans management among key partners and stakeholders
|
- Number of regular meetings to engage key partners (such as federal/provincial/territorial governments,
non-governmental organizations, academics, Aboriginal organizations, etc.)
- Number of public websites for communication and outreach
- Number of studies, papers, workshops initiated by or with partners
- Number of proposed frameworks with Aboriginal content
- Number of new/revised policies and white papers
- Number of federal/provincial/territorial joint initiatives
- Number of peer review advisory processes involving federal/provincial/territorial participants
|
Program Activity: Habitat Management
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Protection and conservation of
freshwater and marine fish habitat, in collaboration with others, through a balanced application of regulatory and
non-regulatory activities including reviewing development proposals, conducting environmental assessments and
monitoring compliance and effectiveness.
As part of the departmental priority Environmental Process Modernization, the Habitat Management Program is focusing
on the implementation of the Environmental Process Modernization Plan. The expected results of these efforts include
healthy and productive fish habitat.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
- Healthy and productive fish habitat available to sustain the production of fish species and populations
that Canadians value
|
- Number of operational statements, best management practices and letters of advice issued and used to reduce
or eliminate the impact on fish and fish habitat resulting from development projects.
- Number of authorizations, including compensation plans issued and applied, to offset the loss of fish
habitat as a result of development projects
- Number of site inspections to verify conformity with terms and conditions of operational statements, best
management practices, letters of advice and authorizations and compliance with the habitat protection
provisions of the Fisheries Act
- The effectiveness of monitoring studies conducted by proponents and submitted to DFO for evaluation
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Habitat Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Conservation and protection of fish habitat |
26.3 |
26.1 |
22.1 |
Environmental assessment |
12.6 |
14.3 |
14.3 |
Other habitat management |
23.3 |
21.4 |
21.4 |
Sub-total |
62.2 |
61.8 |
57.8 |
Program Enablers1 |
17.6 |
16.7 |
15.6 |
Total |
79.8 |
78.6 |
73.3 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Habitat Management |
496 |
496 |
496 |
Program Enablers1 |
121 |
122 |
111 |
Total |
617 |
618 |
607 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Habitat Management Sub-activities
The Habitat Management program activity is delivered through three program sub-activities:
- Conservation and Protection of Fish Habitat — reviewing, assessing and monitoring activities in and around
water to ensure compliance with the Fisheries Act, CEAA, and SARA;
- Environmental Assessment — conducting Environmental Assessments pursuant to the Canadian Environmental
Assessment Act (CEEA) in collaboration with partners and stakeholders; and
- Other Habitat Management — services designed to enhance the coherence and predictability of HMP, including
informatics infrastructure, support for provision of advice with respect to SARA and the Federal Contaminated Sites
Accelerated Action Plan.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Habitat Management sub-activities. In
addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Habitat Management sub-activities
during the current planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Conservation and Protection of Fish Habitat |
- Conduct regulatory reviews and developing monitoring plans with proponents
- Design and develop regulations, policies, strategies and tools
- Design, develop and implement communications and educational strategies
- Develop partnership agreements
- Participate in fish production and other resource, land, water, and coastal zone planning processes
- Implement Expenditure Review Committee decision from Departmental Management Committee June 2006
- Support Fisheries Act renewal
|
- Partners and stakeholders are aware of and support Program objectives
- Partners and stakeholders implement fish and fish habitat conservation, as well as protection measures and
practices
|
- Number of industry associations who have integrated Operational Statements into industry best management
practices (BMPs)
- Number of municipalities that have integrated Operational Statements into their BMPs
- Number of provinces and territories that integrate Operational Statements into their permitting
systems
- Percentage of proponents who are in line with the terms and conditions of Operational Statements, BMPs and
Authorizations and who are in compliance with the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries
Act
|
Environmental Assessment |
- Conduct Environmental Assessments of proposed projects or activities under CEAA before making decisions
under the Fisheries Act and in accordance with SARA
- Collaborate with partners and stakeholders to ensure environmental effects on fish and their habitat are
considered within the Environmental Assessment process
|
- Environmental effects of regulatory decisions are considered in a timely, coordinated and effective manner
before regulatory decisions are made under the Fisheries Act
|
- Number of projects requiring CEAA review that incorporate HMP requirements and advice
- Number of declared class screening where DFO-HMP is a Responsible Authority
- Number of times HMP uses each class screening
|
Other Habitat Management |
- Habitat Management Program Mandatory Training Program
- Support the provision of advice on the application of SARA for aquatic species at risk
- Provide expert support and advice to the Federal Contaminated Sites Accelerated Action Plan Secretariat,
Contaminated Sites Management Working Group and advice to departments with custody of federal contaminated
sites
- Design, develop and implement communication material and strategies (e.g., web-based media)
- Develop and deploy the Program Activity Tracking System
- Support HMP governance structure
|
- Expert support provided for implementation of the Federal Contaminated Sites Accelerated Action Plan
- Advice provided for the implementation of SARA
- Awareness of habitat management concepts, objectives, principles and practices on the part of HMP
staff
|
- The number of sites listed on the Federal Contaminated Sites and Solid Waste Landfills Inventory in which
DFO is involved under the Federal Contaminated Sites Accelerated Action Plan Expert Support Program (the
inventory is maintained by Environment Canada)
- SARA advice related to ongoing operational policy issues, strategies, plans and critical habitat and
residence designations
- Increased percentage of HMP staff that complete mandatory training courses (HM101, IM101)
|
Program Activity: Science
Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research,
monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of healthy and productive aquatic
ecosystems.
These functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government
departments, the private sector, academia and international organizations.
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
- Science advice to inform the integrated management of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems for the
benefit and enjoyment of Canadians
|
- Scientific production by Fisheries and Oceans
- Canadians' confidence in DFO Science
- Level of partnering in scientific research
- Number of responses to requests for science advice
|
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Assessing the impacts of development on aquatic ecosystems |
16.8 |
16.7 |
15.4 |
Assessing aquatic ecosystems and supporting integrated oceans management |
31.4 |
31.4 |
31.3 |
Monitoring, understanding and predicting variation and change of ocean climate |
3.6 |
3.6 |
3.6 |
Sub-total |
51.8 |
51.7 |
50.2 |
Program Enablers1 |
22.2 |
26.1 |
24.6 |
Total |
74.0 |
77.8 |
74.8 |
Human Resources
(number of FTEs) |
2007-2008 |
2008-2009 |
2009-2010 |
Science |
405 |
405 |
405 |
Program Enablers1 |
104 |
106 |
100 |
Total |
509 |
511 |
505 |
Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.
1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been
prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further
information on the Program Enablers.
Science Sub-activities
Science in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems is delivered through three program
sub-activities:
- Assessing the impacts of development on aquatic ecosystems — providing scientific advice on potential
impacts, mitigation measures and risks associated with development activities and toxic chemicals and contaminants on
aquatic ecosystems in support of the Department's habitat management authorities and oceans management (e.g.,
Fisheries Act, the Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat, Species at Risk Act, Oceans
Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act);
- Assessing aquatic ecosystems and supporting integrated oceans management — providing sound ecosystem-based
science and integrated multi-disciplinary data management to support the integrated management of oceans resources
and spaces; and
- Monitoring, understanding and predicting variation and change of ocean climate — conducting research and
monitoring that enable the prediction of ocean influences on and responses to climatic change and variability, as
well as the assessment of potential impacts on ecosystems, fish and mammal populations to enable mitigation and
adaptation strategies for the management of aquatic ecosystems.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of
healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the
following plans for Science sub-activities in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems during the current
planning period.
Plans for 2007-2010 by Sub-activity
Plans |
Expected Results |
Performance Indicators |
Assessing the Impacts of Development on Aquatic Ecosystems |
- Provide targeted advice to Habitat Management on the Mackenzie Valley Gas Pipeline Project to support
decision requirements associated with the environmental impact assessment, regulation (Fisheries Act)
and monitoring
- Delineate and map the habitats of the coastal Beaufort Sea and Mackenzie Delta, assess Beluga whale habitat
requirements in the eastern Beaufort Sea, and study the impact of oil and gas exploration on ringed and bearded
seals
- In support of the Environmental Process Modernization Plan (EPMP), conduct a peer review of advice
regarding the evidence linking human activities to impact on fish habitat
- Provide advice on the scientific foundation for the application of risk management principles to the
management of fish habitat and the review of compensation guidelines
|
- Use of scientific advice and supporting information related to the impacts of industrial activities on the
aquatic environment
- Mitigation measures for human and industrial activities
|
|
Assessing Aquatic Ecosystems and Supporting Integrated Oceans Management |
- Continue to provide targeted advice to Oceans Management in support of integrated oceans management
- Conduct targeted research in LOMAs and provide science advice on priority issues and areas, such as
determining ecosystem objectives and indicators
- Science will work with Oceans to establish a framework for identifying indicators and developing
appropriate monitoring programs
|
- Use of science advice (e.g. data, modelling) for integrated management of Canada's oceans (e.g., through
MPAs, Marine Environmental Quality Regulations, etc.)
|
|
Monitoring, Understanding and Predicting Variation and Change of Ocean
Climate |
- Deliver a coordinated program to provide the necessary data sets for Oceans Ecosystem Assessments (see also
sub-activity Assessing Aquatic Ecosystems and Supporting Integrated Oceans Management)
- Conduct research to improve understanding of the impact of climate change and variation on aquatic
ecosystems
- Apply operational models to provide tools for predicting variation of ocean climate
- Conduct research funded by International Polar Year with the objective of building on and supporting the
Department's and Government of Canada's knowledge requirements associated with climate change impacts and
adaptation
|
- Decision-makers make increased use of forecast impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems
- Policy-makers make increased use of knowledge of oceans' influence on climate and climate change
|
|