ARCHIVED - Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy

Start date: April 1, 2010

End date: March 31, 2015

Description:

The objective of the ASETS is to increase Aboriginal participation in the Canadian labour market, ensuring that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people are engaged in sustainable, meaningful employment.

The ASETS builds on three strategic priorities: demand-driven skills development; partnerships with the private sector, provinces and territories, and across whole-of-government; and accountability for improved results. Programs will be designed and delivered by Aboriginal organizations to help Aboriginal people to prepare for, obtain and maintain meaningful and sustainable employment, assist Aboriginal youth to make successful transitions from school to work or to support their return to school, and support child care programs.

Expected results:

The expected result is that Aboriginal people are employed and integrated into the labour market. The key results for the ASETS are:

• To assist Aboriginal individuals to return to work;
• To assist Aboriginal individuals to return to school;
• To increase savings to Employment Insurance.

The predecessor strategy, AHRDS, resulted in an average of 13,500-15,000 jobs filled per year. Using these results as a baseline, it is expected that the focus on demand-driven skills development and partnerships in the ASETS will result in approximately 18,500 jobs filled per year.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership (voted)

Start date: June 7, 2007

End date: March 31, 2012

Description:

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership initiative is a targeted Aboriginal skills development program designed to promote maximum employment for Aboriginal people on major economic developments through a collaborative partnership approach. It is designed to address a broad spectrum of skills and learning needs and provide access to jobs.

Expected results:

Through the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership initiative, programs respond to the needs of Aboriginal workers, employers and other stakeholders

The overall objectives of the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership initiative:

• Sustainable employment for Aboriginal people leading to lasting benefits for Aboriginal communities, families and individuals;
• Promote maximum employment for Aboriginal people on major economic developments through a collaborative partnership approach;
• Increased skill levels in the Aboriginal workforce;
• Increased direct and indirect employment for Aboriginals across Canada;
• Decreased Aboriginal unemployment and dependency on social assistance;
• Improved skill levels (i.e. literacy, numeracy, computer skills, post-secondary certification);
• Increased Aboriginal business opportunities;
• A more diversified workforce within communities.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund

Start date: April 1, 2009

End date: March 31, 2011

Description:

The Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund is an initiative under Canada'a Economic Action Plan that will support short-term, focused initiatives designed to help Aboriginal people get the specific skills they require to benefit from economic opportunities, including those generated by other Economic Action Plan initiatives.

The Aboriginal Skills and Training Strategic Investment Fund will support short-term, focused initiatives designed to help Aboriginal people get the specific skills they require to benefit from economic opportunities, including those generated by the Economic Action Plan announced in Budget 2009.

The Fund will strengthen partnerships between Aboriginal employment service organizations and employers through training-to-employment programs related to concrete job opportunities. It will also support greater investments in training for individuals facing barriers to employment such as low literacy and essential skills.

The ASTSIF will also focus on three main objectives:

• entering into a number of training-to-employment projects leading to concrete, guaranteed job opportunities by establishing partnerships with small and medium-size employers;
• supporting projects to assist Aboriginal people with barriers to employment, including literacy and essential skills challenges; and
• supporting pilot projects to test innovative approaches to Aboriginal labour market programming as well as projects that are national in scope.

There are both regional and national components to the ASTSIF. The regional component supports training-to-employment projects, skills development projects and service improvement projects on a regional basis, while the national component supports initiatives that are national in scope, partnership-based and will result in the development of tools, services or promising practices that will enhance the range of client and business services that will be provided under the new Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy.

Expected results:

The ASTSIF is a 2-year initiative that supports the development and strengthening of opportunities-based partnerships and the delivery of targeted training, leading to concrete employment outcomes for Aboriginal people. It is expected that approximately 8,200 Aboriginal clients will be served through ASTSIF funding, of which 2,800 are expected to secure employment.

Outcome Indicators:

• Number of clients served
• Number of clients with increased employability and employment skills
• Number of clients employed
• Key sectors providing training to employment

For ASTSIF regional projects, indicators include but are not limited to information on the following areas:

• # of clients registered
• Level of retention
• Enhanced employability
• % of clients employed

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Quarterly reports as part of the EAP
• Quarterly financial and activity reports in accordance with the Contribution Agreements

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Youth Employment Strategy (voted)

Start date: April 1, 2003

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Through the Youth Employment Strategy, the Government of Canada is working to provide young Canadians with both valuable work experience and earnings to help support their further education. Transfer payments made under the Youth Employment Strategy (YES) are predominantly in the form of contributions from participating departments for wage subsidies for participant youth; or for the development and delivery of youth support services. Such support services include client assessment, case management services and the provision of employability tools, which intend to help participants acquire needed skills. Transfer payments contribute directly to the program objectives by encouraging organizations to create meaningful, skill-enhancing, opportunities for youth.

Canada's Economic Action Plan increased funding by $10 million in 2009 and is again providing an additional $10 million in 2010 for Canada Summer Jobs. This is part of the overall Government of Canada strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world.

Expected results:

Programs respond to the needs of young workers, employers and other stakeholders.

The common key results commitments for all initiatives receiving funding under the Youth Employment Strategy are:

• Enhanced youth employability skills gained from work experience or tailored interventions; and
• A portion of youth participants will return to school to further their education/skills development and/or become employed or self-employed.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (voted)

Start date: October 17, 2006

End date: March 31, 2012

Description:

The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers is a federal-provincial/territorial cost-shared initiative providing support to unemployed older workers in communities affected by significant downsizing or closures, and/or ongoing high unemployment, through programming aimed at reintegrating them into employment. In situations where there is little likelihood of immediate employment, programming may be aimed at increasing the employability of older workers and ensuring they remain active and productive labour market participants while their communities undergo adjustment.

Provinces and territories are responsible for identifying affected communities to target for activities, design and delivery of projects, and monitoring and reporting on projects.

To be eligible to participate in the Initiative, older workers must be unemployed, legally entitled to work in Canada, lack skills needed for successful integration into new employment, live in an eligible community, and normally be aged 55-64. Projects must include employment assistance activities, such as résumé writing, interview techniques, counselling and job finding clubs, and at least two other employability improvement activities such as prior learning assessment, skills training, work experience, or assistance to start a small business. As well, they must offer income support to participants in the form of allowances, wages or wage subsidies, and involve at least 25 hours per week of activity for participants. Where possible and appropriate, activities will support community economic development strategies and activities. As an example, skills development activities may prepare participants for emerging employment opportunities.

Canada's Economic Action Plan enhanced the existing Initiative by increasing funding by $60 million over 3 years and by expanding the program's reach to more communities (now over 250). As a result of this extra funding, more older workers, in more communities, will be able to benefit.

Expected results:

Programs respond to the needs of older workers, employers and other stakeholders.

The shared outcomes of partners are to help unemployed older workers reintegrate into employment. Where there is little likelihood of immediate employment, outcomes would be to increase their employability, and assist them to remain active and productive in the labour market while their communities undergo adjustment.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities

Start date: April 1, 2005

End date: March 31, 2013^*

Description:

The objective of the Enabling Fund is to enhance the development and vitality of the official language minority communities by strengthening capacity in the areas of community economic and human resource development and by promoting partnerships at all levels. The Enabling Fund provides funding to Official Language Minority Communities designated organizations, the Réseaux de développement économique et d'employabilité and Community Economic Development and Employability Committees through contribution agreements, so that these organizations can plan, develop and manage community projects and access additional funding for these projects.

Contributions can be made under the Enabling Fund for the Official Language Minority Communities to support activities such as:

• Meeting of the National Committees to develop strategic joint plans and manage implementation;
• Holding meetings to share information and coordinate activities;
• Coordinate research on socio-economics in Official Language Minority Communities; and
• Market/Promote the Enabling Fund Program;
• Economic and human resources planning, implementing community development plans, research;
• Creating, implementing and consolidating collaborative projects to enhance the vitality and economic growth of Official Language Minority Communities;
• Mobilizing community stakeholders; and
• Strengthening local and national structures to improve their capabilities to manage and implement community projects.

^*Program was renewed through the Roadmap for Canada's Linguistic Duality in 2008 and by Treasury Board in 2009. Final approval of Terms and Conditions is pending.

Expected results:

Programs respond to the needs of Official Language Minority Community workers, employers and other stakeholders

• Contribution recipients are informed and contribute to knowledge building and program/policy issues;
• Knowledge shared among federal partners, contribution recipients and Official Language Minority Communities;
• Ongoing integration of Official Language Minority Community - economic and human resources issues in government's policy/program development;
• Contribution recipients continue to develop and implement effective community plans and projects with concrete results; and
• Contribute to sustainable collaboration across federal institutions and with Official Language Minority Community stakeholders.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities

Start date: April 1, 2004

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The goal of the Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities is to improve the employment situation of Canadians with disabilities, by enhancing their employability, increasing the employment opportunities available to them, and building on their existing knowledge base.

Under the Multilateral Framework for Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities, transfers to provinces are made as 'other transfer payments'. The Government of Canada contributes 50 percent of the costs incurred by provinces for funded programs and services up to the amount of the federal allocation identified in each bilateral agreement.

Expected results:

The goal of the Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities is to improve the employment situation of Canadians with disabilities, by enhancing their employability, increasing the employment opportunities available to them, and building on their existing knowledge base. Reporting under the Agreements will include selected societal indicators (employment income, educational attainment and employment rate of working age people with disabilities) and the following program indicators:

• number of participants in programs and services;
• number of participants completing a program or service where there is a specific start and end point to the intervention; and
• number of participants who were assisted in obtaining and maintaining employment where the program or service supported the activity.

Provinces are not required to report outcomes or results to HRSDC; rather, agreement holders use public reporting.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities

Start date: April 1, 2007

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Transfer payments made under the Opportunities Fund are in the form of contribution agreements to individuals, businesses, not-for-profit organizations and municipal governments.

Transfer payments contribute directly to the program objectives by assisting unemployed persons with disabilities who are not normally eligible for Employment Insurance Part II Employment Programs to find, prepare for and maintain employment or become self-employed. Effective and innovative activities are supported, but not limited to, the following:

• encouraging employers to provide individuals with work opportunities and experience;
• working in partnership with organizations for people with disabilities to address barriers to an individual's labour market participation;
• helping individuals increase their skill level; and
• helping individuals to start their own business.

For more information about this program, please visit
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/disability_issues/funding_programs/opportunities_fund/index.shtml

Expected results:

People with disabilities enhanced their employability by completing an Opportunities Fund intervention;

People with disabilities obtained employment or self-employment or sought further skills upgrading following Opportunities Fund programming; and

People with disabilities have increased earned income levels and reduced their dependence on passive income support.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Labour Market Agreements

Start date: April 1, 2008

End date: March 31, 2014

Description:

In Advantage Canada, the Government of Canada set out the goal to create "the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world." In Budget 2007, the Government of Canada delivered on this commitment through a New Labour Market Architecture, which included new, six-year bilateral Labour Market Agreements with the provinces and territories supported by $500M / year of new federal investments. Through these agreements, the Government of Canada provides funds for provincial and territorial skills and employment programming and training to non-EI eligible unemployed Canadians and to workers with low skills.

The Labour Market Agreements are intended to increase labour force participation of under-represented groups," providing Canadians with the skills to succeed in the labour market " , and encourage employers to provide more training to their workers.

Labour Market Agreements have been signed with all 10 Provinces and 3 Territories.

Expected results:

Labour Market Agreements were designed to allow P/Ts to develop and deliver labour market programming based on their specific priorities and objectives. Nevertheless, LMAs have broad objectives:

• Quantity - To increase the participation of Canadians and immigrants in the workforce to meet current and future labour requirements;
• Quality - To enhance the quality of skills development and training; and
• Efficiency - To facilitate workforce mobility and provide the information necessary to make informed labour market choices.

The Labour Market Agreements include a robust accountability framework to allow the Government of Canada to measure results against policy objectives and demonstrate value for money to Canadians. Reporting under the Agreements will include the following indicators:

Eligible Client indicators:

• Total number of eligible clients served/in training by employment status (employed, unemployed, self-employed);
• Education level of eligible clients prior to intervention;
• Number of eligible clients served in an intervention by designated client group (Aboriginal peoples, immigrants, older workers, persons with disabilities, women, and youth).

Service Delivery Indicators:

• Number of Eligible Clients participating in interventions by intervention type;
• Proportion of Eligible Clients "satisfied" with service received upon completion of the intervention.

Eligible Client Outcome and Impact Indicators:

• Proportion of Eligible Clients who have completed their intervention, by intervention type;
• Number of Eligible Clients who have earned credentials or certification through participation in the intervention;
• Average hourly earnings of Eligible Clients following the intervention;
• Proportion of Eligible Clients who, 3 months and 12 months after leaving the intervention, indicate their training helped prepare them for future employment.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Sector Council Program

Start date: April 1, 2002

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Sector Council Program supports a network of industry-based, national groups that operate in key sectors to address priority human resources and skills challenges. This program enables demand-driven partnerships that address critical skills and human resources challenges from a sectoral perspective. Contribution payments under the Sector Council Program support infrastructure, as well as research and project based activities proposed by Sector Councils and other national organizations (sector-like) working on skills, training and learning issues.

The Sector Council Program supports sector council activities that include:

• Labour market forecasting and analysis;
• National occupational standards;
• Curriculum tailored to industry needs;
• Skills development tools, including e-learning;
• Literacy and essential skills initiatives;
• Integration of foreign trained workers; and
• Targeted recruitment and retention initiatives.

Expected results:

The capacity exists for employers to deliver employment, training and assessment services to Canadians.

In the short-term, the Sector Council Program and Sector Councils will continue to work in partnership with labour market stakeholders in order to arrive at:

• New and innovative solutions to human resources and skills issues that: account for current labour market trends and conditions; promote cross-sectoral and industry-led initiatives; and that align with provincial/territorial investments in economic growth and recovery.
• Sectoral-based solutions to address current and emerging skills and HR issues that: increase sectoral capacity through the sharing of best practices and ideas across industries and sectors; enhance opportunities for labour market transition (entry, across sectors, and vertically within sectors); and encourage learning systems to be more responsive to the needs of the labour market through demand-driven curricula.

In addition to a short-term emphasis on the objectives outlined above, the Sector Council Program will maintain its focus on activities that result in:

• The increased availability and use of products and services to help industry address their HR issues;
• The promotion of the workplace as a learning place - by encouraging employers to increase investments in workplace learning for their employees; and
• Increased industry investments in skills development that promote a quality workforce.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

Start date: January 1, 2007

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant aims to promote access to apprenticeships and improve labour mobility by providing a $1,000 grant to registered apprentices in the designated Red Seal trades during the first two years of their apprenticeship program, up to a maximum of $2,000. This taxable cash grant is designed to reward advancement in the first two years of an apprenticeship program in one of the Red Seal trades, building momentum for apprentices to complete their apprenticeship programs and receive journeyperson certification. Registered apprentices who completed their first or second year of their apprenticeship program in a Red Seal trade designated in the province/territory where they are registered as an apprentice, on or after January 1, 2007, are eligible to apply.

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant provides an incentive for more Canadians to pursue apprenticeships and, taken together with the Apprenticeship Completion Grant, Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit for employers and the Tradesperson's Tool Deduction, is intended to meet the future need for skilled trades people that is crucial to the sustained growth of the economy. By focusing on the Red Seal trades, for which there are national occupational standards, the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant also supports inter-provincial mobility.

Expected results:

The Grant has been designed to meet the following objectives:

• To increase access to apprenticeships in the Red Seal Program trades by helping apprentices to cover expenses such as the purchase of tools and other materials required for learning on-the-job and travel expenses associated with classroom training;
• To encourage the apprentice's progression through the technical and on-the-job training requirements in the early years of their apprenticeship program, thus building the momentum towards certification; and
• To promote inter-provincial mobility by increasing the number of apprentices remaining in the Red Seal trades and getting their Red Seal.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program

Start date: April 1, 2006

End date: March 31, 2011

Description:

The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES) works to improve the literacy and essential skills of adult Canadians. The OLES has a particular focus on the workplace since research has shown that the majority of Canadians with low literacy and essential skills are already in the labour market. The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills also recognizes that workplaces, communities and families are interconnected and that strengthening literacy and essential skills in one area of an individual's life will have an effect in all areas.

The OLES delivers the Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program, a non-statutory Grants and Contributions program funded through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, which promotes lifelong learning by facilitating the creation of opportunities for Canadians to acquire the learning, literacy and essential skills they need to participate in a knowledge-based economy and society.

The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills' goal is to become an acknowledged centre of expertise on "what works" in increasing the literacy and essential skills of adult Canadians. Using this expertise, OLES will play an indirect role by influencing the policies and activities of others and leveraging funding to improve opportunities for adults to increase their literacy and essential skills (LES).

More specifically, OLES builds knowledge and expertise about what works in upgrading adults' literacy and essential skills, supports the development, testing and dissemination of literacy and essential skills tools and supports and works to develop and maintain effective partnerships and networks. OLES' mandate complements provincial and territorial responsibilities for education and delivery of training and the work of service providers of this training.

Expected results:

Through Literacy and Essential Skills programming, the capacity exists to deliver employment, training and assessment services to Canadians.

The expected ultimate outcomes of the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills are that adult Canadians have the literacy and essential skills they need to :

• get a job;
• adapt and succeed in the labour market;
• contribute to their communities and families.

The expected intermediate outcomes are:

• Literacy and essential skills are integrated into federal programs and policies;
• Literacy and essential skills are integrated into training;
• Partners' policies and programs address literacy and essential skills needs.

The expected direct outcomes are:

• The benefits of literacy and essential skills upgrading are understood;
• Information is available on what works in the field of LES;
• Literacy and essential skills tools and supports are available and used by those who need them;
• Partners have the capacity to address literacy and essential skills issues.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Foreign Credential Recognition Program

Start date: January 02, 2003

End date: May 25, 2010

Description:

The objective of the Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) Program is to ensure that the qualification assessment and recognition processes available to skilled immigrants and other internationally trained workers in Canada are fair, transparent, consistent, and timely. Through the FCRP, the government works with its partners and key stakeholders to break down the barriers to the recognition of foreign qualifications and enhance labour market outcomes of internationally-trained workers.

The Foreign Credential Recognition Program provides strategic financial support to provincial and territorial partners and stakeholders, including Sector Councils, regulatory bodies, immigrant serving organizations and post-secondary educational institutions, to develop systems and process for assessing and recognizing foreign qualifications in targeted occupations and sectors.

The Foreign Credential Recognition Program supports the research and project-based activities of partners and stakeholders to develop structural changes in the tools and processes institutions and/or organizations use to evaluate and recognize foreign qualifications. The Program's work to date forms the cornerstone of the federal government's contribution towards the First Ministers'2008 commitment to develop a Pan-Canadian Framework for timely assessment and recognition of foreign qualifications recognition across Canada.

Internationally-trained workers and Canadians face obstacles to working in various provinces because of differing provincial policies respecting licensure. Reducing internal barriers to labour mobility continues to be seen as a key to addressing FCR issues. The Government of Canada supports an array of measures aimed at facilitating freer movement of skilled individuals within Canada. Under the newly ratified amendments to Chapter 7 of the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT), all governments committed to ensuring that workers in regulated occupations can apply to be certified in another province or territory without having to undergo significant additional training, examination or assessment. By strengthening institutional capacity, applying tools and processes, the FCRP helps facilitate immigrants' entry into, and mobility within, the Canadian labour market.

" Canada's Economic Action Plan invested $50 million over two years to work with partners to develop a common approach to foreign qualification recognition, with the ultimate objective of improving the process of assessing and recognizing foreign qualifications. Federal, provincial and territorial governments have agreed to the new Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications that was announced last November. The Framework will enhance foreign qualification recognition to help immigrants put their training and knowledge to work sooner. "

The FCR Program contributes to the competitiveness of Canada's economy by improving immigrants' labour market integration.

Expected results:

Through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, the Government of Canada responds to the needs of internationally-trained workers, provincial-territorial partners, employers, and other key stakeholders.

The Foreign Credential Recognition program supports the development of consistent, transparent, fair and timely foreign qualification assessment and recognition processes to enhance labour market outcomes of internationally-trained workers in targeted occupations and sectors.

In the short-term, the Program will work in partnership to:

• increase the understanding, consensus collaboration and commitment among stakeholders and partners on issues and potential solutions related to foreign qualification recognition;
• increase knowledge sharing and transfer of best practices in developing Pan-Canadian foreign qualification recognition processes; and
• commitment to national coordination among provinces/territories and other stakeholders foreign qualification recognition.

In the medium and long-term, the program will work in partnership to

• increase the standardization of Pan-Canadian Foreign qualification recognition processes and tools in targeted occupations and sectors;
• contribute to the availability of specialized data and information to strengthen pan-Canadian capacity on foreign qualification recognition;
• increase the availability of tools and processes to assess and recognize foreign qualifications among organizations;
• increase the use of tools and processes by organizations to assess and recognize internationally trained workers; and
• reduce the barriers to entry into the labour market by internationally trained workers in targeted occupations and sectors.

The program will work with partners and stakeholders to achieve these short, medium and long-term outcomes in order to meet its ultimate objective of enhancing labour market outcomes of internationally trained workers in targeted occupations and sectors.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Workplace Skills Initiative

Start date: May 1, 2005

End date: March 31, 2011

Description:

The Workplace Skills Initiative will fund projects that test and evaluate promising, partnership-based, outcomes-focused approaches to skills development and improved human resource practices and tools for employers and employed Canadians:

• Central to these projects is the development of human capital in and for the workplace;
  • Projects will vary in scope and scale (e.g., firm vs. sector);
  • Small and medium-sized enterprises will be a key audience;
  • Projects will generate cumulative knowledge around skills development and best human resources models, tools and practices.

Expected results:

The Workplace Skills Initiative is expected to contribute towards:

• Increased awareness among workplace partners across Canada of the Initiative and the importance of workplace skills;
• Increased collaboration among workplace partners toward the development of models, tools and instruments for workplace skills;
• Increased knowledge, innovation, experimentation and dissemination of models, tools and instruments for workplace skills among workplace partners.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Apprenticeship Completion Grant

Start date: February 7, 2009
(retroactive to January 1, 2009)

End date: December 31, 2012

Description:

Introduced as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan,the Apprenticeship Completion Grant provides a taxable grant of $2,000 to those registered apprentices who successfully complete their apprenticeship program and obtain journeyperson certification in one of the designated Red Seal trades on or after January 1, 2009. The ACG builds on, and enhances the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) by providing additional incentive for Canadians to finish their apprenticeship training and launch rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

Expected results:

The Apprenticeship Completion Grant is intended to increase the number of apprentices completing an apprenticeship program and obtaining journeyperson certification in a designated Red Seal trade. It is expected that approximately 20,000 individuals will benefit from the ACG each year.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Strategic Training and Transition Fund

Start date: 2009-10 (varies by P/T)

End date: March 31, 2011

Description:

The Strategic Training and Transition Fund provides time-limited incremental funding for provinces and territories that signed a Labour Market Agreement, to support the needs of workers affected by the economic downturn, whether or not they qualify for Employment Insurance.

The Fund supports provincial and territorial initiatives that help meet the training needs of workers in affected communities and sectors so that they can stay in their jobs or move to new jobs, while offering provinces and territories the flexibility to design programming that best meets their needs. The Fund ensures that these Canadians, whether or not they qualify for Employment Insurance benefits, are eligible to participate in the training or other employment initiatives that they need during difficult times.

Included as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan the Strategic Training and Transition Fund will provide $500M over two years (beginning in 2009-10).

Expected results:

Performance will be measured using the same indicators as Labour Market Agreements. Following the conclusion of the initiative in 2011, it is projected that approximately 50,000 Canadians will have benefited from the Strategic Training and Transition Fund initiative.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Skills and Employment

Name of Transfer Payment Program: YMCA and YWCA Grant(s) for Youth Internships

Start date: April 1, 2009

End date: March 31, 2010

Description:

As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada introduced the YMCA and YWCA Grant(s) for Youth Internships, a one-time grant of $15 million to place unemployed youth (aged 15 to 30 years) in internships with not-for-profit and community services organizations with a focus on environmental projects. These internships will help young Canadians develop their skills and gain the work experience needed to open the door to future employment.

While the funding period is until March 31, 2010, activities will proceed until March 31, 2011.

Expected results:

The YMCA and YWCA Grant(s) for Youth Internships will help young Canadians develop their skills and gain the work experience needed to secure future employment.

As a result of this program, approximately 1,000 internships are expected over the duration of the initiative.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Learning

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Student Loans Program - Liabilities

Start date: September, 1964

End date: Ongoing

Description:

From September 1964 to August 1, 1995, the Canada Student Loan Program operated a Guaranteed Loan regime with Canadian financial institutions, where financial assistance was provided to students through financial institutions in the form of 100 percent government guaranteed loans.

This transfer payment tracks claims submitted by financial institutions related to the remaining Guaranteed Loan Portfolio.

Expected results:

• Track claim payments to financial institutions for the remaining balance of the portfolio;
• Canada meets its obligations as set out under the Canada Student Loans Act in agreements with financial institutions.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Learning

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Student Loans Program - Interest Payments and Liabilities

Start date: August 1, 1995

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Consolidated Cost of the Risk Shared Loans. This transfer payment represents interest subsidy, repayment assistance benefits, the amount of loans forgiven, risk premium and put-backs and administrative costs related to students who borrowed under the risk-shared regime which existed from August 1, 1995 to July 31, 2000. At that time, the Canada Student Loans Program operated on a shared risk model with Canadian financial institutions.

Expected results:

• As a result of this transfer payment, students who borrowed under the risk-shared regime continue to receive in-study student financial assistance and debt management assistance in repayment.
• Canada meets its obligations as set out under the Canada Student Financial Assistance Act in agreements with financial institutions.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Learning

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Student Loans Program - Direct Financing Arrangement

Start date: August 1, 2000

End date: Ongoing

Description:

This transfer payment provides alternative payments to non-participating jurisdiction. Provinces and territories may choose not to participate in the Canada Student Loans Program. These provinces and territories receive an alternative payment to assist in the cost of delivering a similar student financial assistance program.

The transfer payment also provides repayment assistance benefits to borrowers, and the value of loans forgiven according to prescribed criteria.

Beginning August 1^st, 2009, individual debt measures including interest relief and debt reduction in repayment have been replaced by the Repayment Assistance Program. The Repayment Assistance Plan is an optional program for students facing difficulty in meeting their student loan payments.

Full time student Reservists who interrupt their studies for a deployment on designated operations will not be charged interest or have to start paying back their student loan while they are away from their studies.

Expected results:

• Post-secondary education students in the province of Québec, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut continue to access financial assistance similar to the assistance provided to students in those jurisdictions that participate in the Canada Student Loans Program.
• Students in participating jurisdictions with financial difficulty are able to receive repayment benefits.

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Learning

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Study Grant / Canada Access Grant / Canada Student Grant Program

Start date: August 1, 1995 (for most Canada Study Grants);
August 1, 2005 (for both Canada Access Grants)
August 1, 2009 (for Canada Student Grant Program)

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Beginning in August 1, 2009 Canada Study Grants and Canada Access Grants have been replaced by the new consolidated Canada Student Grant Program (CSGP). The new Canada Student Grant Program provides up-front grants to students from low and middle income families. The new Canada Student Grant Program is simple, transparent, predictable and broad-based, providing certainty and predictability for Canadian families.

The new Canada Student Grant Program provides students from low and middle-income families with a grant equal to $250 and $100 per month, respectively. Students with permanent disabilities are eligible for a grant of $2,000 per year and up to $8,000 per year for those with exceptional education-related costs associated with their disability. Full-time students from low income families with children are eligible for a grant of $200 per month for each child under the age of 12. Students receiving the Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation general bursaries in 2008-2009 will receive transitional grants until they complete or withdraw from their current program of study. Current Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation general bursary recipients who are eligible for the new low and middle-income grants will have the difference between the amount of the Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation general bursary and the amount of the new grant made up with a transition grant.

The new Canada Student Grant offers the following major advantages to students and their families:

• Stable and transparent funding, to allow better planning and decision-making;
• Availability in all years of a college or undergraduate university program;
• Availability on an equal basis across Canada, regardless of where students live;
• Provision assistance based on income levels.

Expected results:

• Provide non-repayable assistance in an integrated, consistent, and predictable manner across the country.
• Enable disadvantaged students to better understand and benefit from Student Financial Assistance.
• Better encourage post-secondary education completion, and thereby support the full participation of individuals from disadvantaged groups in the labour market.
• Promote access, completion, and equity (by providing enhanced levels of assistance and by targeting more assistance towards lower- and middle-income groups).

Summary of the 3 Year Plan:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: A skilled, adaptable and inclusive labour force and an efficient labour market

Program Activity: Learning

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Education Savings Program

Start date: January 1, 1998 (Canada Education Savings Grant
January 1, 2005 (Canada Learning Bond)

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Canada Education Savings Program encourages the financing of children's post-secondary education through savings, from early childhood, in Registered Education Savings Plans. It is comprised of the following statutory initiatives: the Canada Education Savings Grant, which includes a regular matching grant available to all Canadian children, and enhanced grant portions for low- and middle-income families; and the Canada Learning Bond, which is a grant intended for low-income families. The Canada Education Savings Program delivers the Canada Education Savings Grant and the Canada Learning Bond in close collaboration with 79 Registered Education Savings Plan providers including banks, trust companies, credit unions and scholarship foundations across Canada. Program clients may include parents, grandparents, other relatives or friends, and children in-care agencies saving for the post-secondary education of a child.

The Canada Education Savings Program also administers the Education Savings Community Outreach initiative, a non-statutory program aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of saving for post-secondary education. Its target audience is low income families.

The program's infrastructure is also used to administer the Alberta Centennial Education Savings Grant on behalf of the Province of Alberta, on a cost recovery basis.

Further information regarding the Canada Education Savings Grant can be found at:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/learning/education_savings/public/cesg.shtml

Further information regarding the Canada Learning Bond can be found at:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/learning/education_savings/public/clb.shtml

Expected results:

The expected results and performance indicators of the Canada Education Savings Program are:

Expected Result 1:

Canadians with children under 18 years have savings with the Registered Education Savings Plan.

Performance Indicators:

1. Percentage of children under 18 years in the current calendar year who have ever received a Canada Education Savings Grant.
2. Percentage of eligible children who have ever received a Canada Learning Bond.

Expected Result 2:

Canadians are able to finance their post-secondary education using their savings from the Registered Education Savings Plan

Performance Indicator:

1. Total amount ($) withdrawn from Registered Education Saving Plan accounts in a calendar year to pay for post-secondary education.

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Safe, fair, and productive workplaces and cooperative workplace relations

Program Activity: Labour

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP)

Start date: July, 2008

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Wage Earner Protection Program Act was part of Bill C-55, which set out a comprehensive reform of Canada's insolvency laws, including the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act. Passage of Bill C-55 was expedited with unanimous, all party consent in both Houses of Parliament. The Bill received Royal Assent on November 25, 2005, and became Chapter 47 of the Statutes of Canada, 2005. The Act was subject to technical amendments, which were contained in Bill C-12 and received Royal Assent on December 13, 2007. The Act and its Regulations came into force on July 7, 2008. Recent amendments to the Program to include coverage for termination and severance pay were included in Bill C-10, an Act to implement certain provisions of the Budget tabled in Parliament on January 27, 2009, and related fiscal measures.

The Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP) is a targeted federal Program providing financial support to workers who lose their job and are owed money when their employer goes bankrupt or becomes subject to receivership under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. Specifically, the Program reimburses eligible workers for unpaid wages, vacation, severance, and termination pay up to a current maximum of $3,253 (the equivalent of four weeks' maximum insurable earnings under the Employment Insurance Act). The Wage Earner Protection Program is administered by the Labour Program and is delivered by Service Canada.

Expected results:

The expected result for this Program is a reduction in economic insecurity of Canadian workers with unpaid wages in insolvent workplaces.

Planned Evaluations:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Income Security

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Old Age Security Pension

Start date: 1952

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly benefit available to all persons 65 years of age or over who meet the residence requirements.

Expected results:

Eligible seniors receive a basic pension to which they are entitled

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Income Security

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Guaranteed Income Supplement (statutory payment)

Start date: 1967

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly income-tested benefit paid to residents of Canada who receive a full or partial Old Age Security (OAS) pension and who have little or no other income.

Expected results:

Canada's low-income seniors have a minimum guaranteed income and receive the benefits to which they are entitled

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Income Security

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Allowance (statutory payments)

Start date: 1975 - Allowance
1985 - Allowance for the Survivor

End date: Ongoing

Description:

The Allowance is paid to low-income individuals aged 60 to 64 who are the spouse or common-law partner of a Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) recipient. The Allowance for the Survivor is paid to low-income widows/widowers, aged 60 to 64.

Expected results:

Low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64, who are the spouses/common-law partners of GIS recipients or survivors, have a minimum guaranteed income and receive the benefits to which they are entitled.

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Income Security

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Canada Disability Savings Program - Grants and Bond (statutory payment)

Start date: November 2008

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Through the Canada Disability Savings Program, the Government of Canada will make two types of contributions to the Registered Disability Saving Plans, the Canada Disability Saving Grant and the Canada Disability Saving Bond. The Registered Disability Savings Plan is a long term savings vehicle to help parents and others save for the long-term financial security of a person with a severe disability. The Government will pay matching Grants of 300, 200, or 100 percent depending on the beneficiary's family income and the amount contributed. The Government will also pay income-tested Bonds to the Registered Disability Savings Plan of low-income Canadians with disabilities, regardless of the amount contributed.

Expected results:

People with severe and prolonged disabilities have a measure of long-term financial security

Eligible beneficiaries receive Canada Disability Savings Bonds

Eligible beneficiaries receive Canada Disability Savings Grants

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Social Development

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Homelessness Partnering Strategy

Start date: April 1, 2009

End date: March 31, 2011

Description:

Provides grants and contributions to not-for-profit organizations, individuals, municipal governments, Band and tribal councils and other Aboriginal organizations, public health and educational institutions, Régies régionales, for-profit enterprises, research organizations and research institutes to carry out research on homelessness to help communities better understand and more effectively prevent and reduce homelessness.

Expected results:

Homelessness is prevented and reduced

A comprehensive continuum of supports to help homeless people and those at risk of homelessness move towards self-sufficiency.

Longer-term housing solutions for homeless people and those at risk of homelessness through HPS investments.

Strategic engagement and investments of partners and coordination and delivery of services.

Knowledge to support informed policies, investment decision making and provision of services.

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Social Development

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Social Development Partnerships Program (voted payments)

Start date: April 1, 2009

End date: March 31, 2012

Description:

The Social Development Partnerships Program (SDPP) is a broad-based umbrella Grants and Contributions program. The SDPP makes investments in non-profit organizations to help improve life outcomes of children, families, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable or excluded populations. By providing funding to not-for-profit organizations, SDPP invests in organizations that support the well-being of Canadians - from developing a better understanding of the issues Canadians face, to providing greater access to information, programs and services.

Expected results:

Not-for-profit sector and partners have capacity to respond to existing and emerging social issues for target populations

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Social Development

Name of Transfer Payment Program: New Horizons for Seniors Program (voted payments)

Start date: Original program: October 1, 2004;
Expanded Program: September 27, 2007

End date: September 30, 2010

Description:

The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports local projects across Canada that help ensure seniors are able to benefit from, and contribute to, the quality of life in their community through their social participation and active living. The NHSP accomplishes its' objectives through three separate funding streams, namely:

1. Community Participation and Leadership component, which provides grant funding to encourage seniors to contribute to their communities by sharing their skills and experience with others and helping to reduce isolation.
2. Capital Assistance component, which provides grant funding for the upgrading of community facilities and replacement of equipment/furniture related to existing programs and activities for seniors.
3. Elder Abuse Awareness component, which provides contribution funding for national or regional projects that raise awareness of the abuse of older Canadians

Expected results:

• Seniors' experience and skills are utilized to benefit their community.
• Not-for-profit organizations are able to maintain infrastructure to provide existing programs / activities for seniors.
• Knowledge and awareness of elder abuse in Canadian society

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Social Development

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Universal Child Care Benefit

Start date: July 1, 2006

End date: Ongoing

Description:

Effective July 2006 families receive $100 per month (up to $1,200 per year) for each child under six. Payments are made directly to families so that they can choose the child care that best meets the family's needs. The Universal Child Care Benefit is provided in addition to existing federal programs such as the Canada Child Tax Benefit, which includes the National Child Benefit Supplement, the new Child Tax Credit and the Child Care Expense Deduction. The Universal Child Care Benefit does not affect the benefits families receive under these programs. Further information can be found at www.universalchildcare.ca.

Expected results:

100 percent of eligible families with children under six years of age receiving the Universal Child Care Benefit.

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Strategic Outcome: Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities

Program Activity: Social Development

Name of Transfer Payment Program: Enabling Accessibility Fund

Start date: December 6, 2007

End date: March 31, 2013

Description:

The Enabling Accessibility Fund contributes to the capital costs of construction for the participatory abilities centres and renovations to buildings, modifications to vehicles, information and communications related to improving accessibility for people with disabilities.

The Enabling Accessibility Fund was extended to March 2013 to support the completion of the Major Projects.

The Enabling Accessibility Fund call for proposals is now closed and no future calls are anticipated.

Expected results:

Removing barriers to help people with varying abilities have access to opportunities to participate in their communities

Planned evaluation:
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/dpr/rpp/detailed_information/2009_2010/typtpp_table.shtml

Departmental Green Procurement processes are based on achieving value-for-money - leveraging procurement in order to accomplish broader social, economic and environmental outcomes, in compliance with certain policies, such as the Policy on Green Procurement.

Departmental purchasing patterns for products essential to operations are assessed using key standards to support sustainable development. Electronic-based Green Procurement processes are also an important part of the Department's commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of paper-based transactions particularly for thousands of low dollar value transactions. Since departmental purchasing is subject to the use of mandatory standing offers established by Public Works and Government Services Canada, work continues to identify opportunities where Green Procurement can be improved. Appropriate communications strategies and tools including the Purchasing Portal, will ensure appropriate use of "green" items.

The Department is raising awareness and understanding of Green Procurement through training and communications. Functional specialists receive training through courses offered by the School of Public Service, and managers and administrative staff receive information through departmental awareness sessions. Green Procurement information is added to the Departmental Purchasing Portal and employees receive regular information through the Intranet site and communiqués.

A National Departmental Working Group tracks key commodities purchased, to identify opportunities, and leverage procurement tools from Public Works and Government Services Canada. Where government-wide tools are not available, the department is building green requirements, for example; refurbishing its office screens and panels.

More specifically, the Department will continue to assess opportunities to decrease paper-based transactions and improve the efficiency and costs associated with low dollar value procurement promoting appropriate use of the Acquisition Card and the Procurement Portal.

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnerships

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Skills and Employment

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: October 3, 2003

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31, 2012

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): $292.0 million

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership focuses on developing the skills of Canada's Aboriginal workforce, promoting maximum employment for Aboriginal people on major economic developments across the country and providing lasting benefits for Aboriginal communities, families and individuals.

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership program is an opportunity driven initiative that is implemented through formalized partnerships between the private sector and Aboriginal communities (and others such as the provincial governments and training institutions). The partnerships are responsible for jointly developing and managing comprehensive, multi-year skills development plans that will ensure long-term highly skilled sustainable employment as a result of the projects. The comprehensive Aboriginal training-to-employment plan covers a broad continuum ranging from basic skills, literacy and academic upgrading, through job-specific training and apprenticeships to retention counselling and other on-the-job supports. The plan must have a commitment from the employers to provide at least 50 long-term (sustainable) jobs for Aboriginal people. The partnership must also make a significant financial contribution (at least 50% of the total cost) to the training plan and must develop a governance model that will manage and oversee the project.

" As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan the Government of Canada increased funding for the program by an additional $100 million over three years. "

For more information, please visit: http://www8.hrsdc.gc.ca

Shared outcome(s):

Long term sustainable employment for Aboriginal people on major economic developments.

Governance structure(s):

Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership is a national, centrally managed program. It promotes the maximum employment of Aboriginal people through a collaborative partnership approach. Employment to training plans under the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership projects are implemented through formalized partnerships consisting of Aboriginal organizations the private sector, provincial governments and others as appropriate.

Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership partnerships receive direct support through a multi-year contribution agreement negotiated by HRSDC based on a human resources development plan. Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership proponents are responsible for interim and final financial and performance reports.

Planning Highlights:

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Not Applicable

Contact information:

Catherine Adam
Director General
Aboriginal Affairs Directorate
(819) 997-8551
Catherine.adam@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
Place du Portage, Phase IV
140 Promenade du Portage Gatineau, Québec

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Youth Employment Strategy

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Skills and Employment

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: April 1, 2003

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): Ongoing

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

Through the Youth Employment Strategy, the Government of Canada is working to provide young Canadians with both valuable work experience and earnings to help support their further education. The Youth Employment Strategy supports Canadian youth as they move into the world of work. The Strategy plays a role in developing Canada's workforce by providing young Canadians with access to programs and services to help them gain the skills, knowledge, career information and work experience they need to find and maintain employment and make a successful transition into the labour force.

The Youth Employment Strategy is designed to respond to labour market challenges facing youth, aged 15 to 30. The Strategy has three program streams: Skills Link, Career Focus and Summer Work Experience, which includes the Canada Summer Jobs initiative. Skills Link provides youth-at-risk with opportunities to develop skills they need to find work or return to school. Career Focus helps post-secondary graduates find work in their area of specialization. Summer Work Experience helps secondary and post-secondary graduates acquire career-related skills and financing for their education through summer jobs.

The Government of Canada's support to young Canadians is a shared responsibility and a partnership effort among many departments and organizations. Human Resources and Skills Development, along with 10 other federal government departments, work cooperatively with other levels of government, Aboriginal organizations, educational institutions, and private sector, not-for-profit and voluntary sector organizations to deliver Youth Employment Strategy initiatives.

Canada's Economic Action Plan increased funding by $10 million in 2009 and is again providing an additional $10 million in 2010 for Canada Summer Jobs. This is part of the overall Government of Canada strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world.

For more information, please visit: http://www.youth.gc.ca.

Shared outcome(s):

The shared outcomes of partners for the common key results are:

• Number of youth served
• Number of youth employed / self-employed
• Number of youth returning to school

Governance structure(s):

The Youth Employment Strategy has in place horizontal Results-based Management and Accountability Framework that represents a commitment among the eleven participating federal departments to undertake ongoing collection of common performance management data to ensure effective overall performance management of the program.

Oversight of the Youth Employment Strategy horizontal initiative is provided through a collaborative committee structure. Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is responsible for facilitating coordination among the departments and agencies funding Youth Employment Strategy activities. As lead of this horizontal initiative, HRSDC chairs and is responsible for the coordination and management of Youth Employment Strategy Interdepartmental Operations Committee and the Youth Employment Strategy Evaluation Sub-Committee. HRSDC is ultimately accountable for attaining the expected results for Youth Employment Strategy and has the ultimate decision making authority for issues related to the overall policy, design and implementation of Youth Employment Strategy.

Youth Employment Strategy initiatives are delivered nationally, regionally and locally using a variety of funding instruments, such as contribution agreements and some direct delivery methods. Transfer payments are provided primarily by participating departments through contribution agreements and service delivery agreements in support of participants' remuneration and overhead costs.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Not Applicable

Contact information:

John Atherton, Director General
Active Employment Measures
Skills and Employment Branch
(819) 994-6916
john.atherton@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
Place du Portage, Phase IV
140 Promenade du Portage
Gatineau, Québec

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Skills and Employment

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: June 13, 2007

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): Ongoing

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

" The Temporary Foreign Worker program enables Canadian employers to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis to meet immediate skills and labour needs when Canadians are not available, subject to employers and workers meeting specified criteria. The program is jointly managed by CIC and HRSDC ". The Temporary Foreign Worker Program includes program streams such as the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program and the Live-in-Caregiver Program, the Pilot Project for Occupations Requiring Lower Levels of Formal Training, and the Arranged Employment Opinion program.

In the province of Quebec, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program is administered through a partnership with the Government of Quebec.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is funded from the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/workplaceskills/foreign_workers/index.shtml

Shared outcome(s):

• To enhance Canadian productivity and participation through efficient and inclusive labour markets and internationally competitive workplaces;
• To respond to regional, occupational, and sectoral skills and labour demands;
• To protect employment opportunities for Canadians; and
• Ensure that temporary foreign workers have the same rights and protections as Canadians.

Governance structure(s):

• Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is responsible for providing a Labour Market Opinion to Citizenship and Immigration Canada and employers indicating if the employment of the temporary foreign worker is likely to have a positive, negative or neutral impact on the labour market in Canada.
• Service Canada delivers the program regionally for Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and processes Labour Market Opinion applications to support the work permit application process.
• Citizenship and Immigration Canada is responsible for assessing work permit applications and issuing work permits to workers.
• Each Department is responsible for the design and management of those elements of the program under its Minister's responsibility.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Not applicable

Contact information:

Andrew Kenyon, Director General
Temporary Foreign Workers
Skills and Employment Branch
(819) 994-1021
andrew.kenyon@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
Place du Portage, Phase IV
140 Promenade du Portage
Gatineau, Quebec

NOTE: The June 2007 start date represents the latest authorities for the Temporary Foreign Worker program. The above planned spending figures are for Citizenship and Immigration Canada and HRSDC only. Figures exclude planned spending for other government departments such as DFAIT and PWSGC and therefore do not represent the full Government of Canada costs for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Canada Student Loans Program

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)

Lead department program activity: Learning

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: September, 1964

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): Ongoing

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

The Canada Student Loans Program lowers financial barriers to post-secondary education by providing loans to students with a demonstrated financial need. This helps increase their opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills.

Information for Canadians about saving, planning and paying for post-secondary studies and specific information for Canada Student Loans Program clients (including information about learning opportunity selection, financial planning, and how to apply for, maintain and repay student loans and the new Student Grants and Repayment Assistance the program offers) can be accessed at: www.canlearn.ca.

Shared outcome(s):

Maintain the Government's commitment to accessible post-secondary education by:

• lowering financial barriers to post-secondary education through the provision of financial assistance to eligible Canadians; and
• ensuring a more manageable debt burden for borrowers

Governance structure(s):

The Government of Canada has entered into Integration Agreements with four provinces (Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador) in order to create a "one-student-one-loan" service approach. These four integrated provinces accounted for over 60% of the Canada Student Loans Program borrowers.

The administration of the current Program is the product of a co-operative effort between Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Service Canada, Canada Revenue Agency, participating provinces and the Yukon Territory, a Service Provider, financial institutions and Public Works and Government Services Canada. These agents are responsible for conducting one or more activities during the loan lifecycle. Program documents and communications tools are typically prepared with the input and approval of both federal and participating provincial and territorial governments. Quebec, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut do not participate in the Canada Student Loans Program. These jurisdictions receive an alternative payment to assist in the cost of delivering a similar student financial assistance program.

Effective management of the Program and relations with third-party agents is the primary responsibility of the Canada Student Loans Program. Program activities include, for example, defining the operational and financial processes for the delivery of the program by the service providers, investigation of escalated cases by the Client Relations office and control and monitoring by the Comptroller's Office.

The application and needs assessment for the Program is delivered by provincial student assistance offices, which also administer provincial aid. The participating provinces and the Yukon Territory:

• determine individual eligibility for loans and grants based on federal criteria;
• assess students' financial needs based on federal criteria;
• issue loan certificates;
• administer and deliver grants; and
• designate educational institutions that students may attend with assistance from the Canada Student Loans Program.

While the Canada Student Loans Program provides guidance and direction on how the Program is to be delivered, the Service Provider assumes responsibility for the administration of the loans once the loan agreement is signed and submitted for processing. Responsibilities of the Service Provider include:

• verifying loan agreements;
• managing the in-study interest-free period;
• negotiating and handling loan repayment; and
• managing debt management activities, advising and counselling borrowers on their debt management options.

Public Works and Government Services Canada is responsible for disbursing loans and grants to the borrowers and to Educational Institutions, for any funds directed to pay for tuition.

Canada Revenue Agency Non-Tax Collection Services is the agent responsible for debt collection. Delinquent guaranteed and risk-shared loans become debts to the Crown when the Government of Canada buys back the debt from financial institutions. Delinquent direct financed loans are returned to government after the Service Provider has attempted collection for a set period of time and the borrower has either not made payments on their loan or is unwilling to repay. In the past, private collection agencies under contract with Canada Revenue Agency were used for collection activities. Starting in September 2009, Canada Revenue Agency has stopped using private collection agencies and is providing collection activities in house.

Planning Highlights :

Planning highlights for the Canada Student Loans Program in 2010-2011 include:

• Ensuring the sustained delivery of core services to help Canadians access post-secondary education;
• Implementing mandated program initiatives to improve post-secondary related services and programs, including the implementation of the new Service Delivery Vision. (The new Service Delivery Vision will expand online services and enable students to manage their loans online from application through repayment.);
• Reviewing and enhancing client service delivery in support of post-secondary education;
• Continuing to implement initiatives to enhance management excellence and accountability, such as continuing to support Public Service Renewal; and
• Developing and advancing policy options in support of post-secondary education awareness and participation.

Expected results :

Continued promotion of access (both participation and completion) to post-secondary education by removing financial and information barriers

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable) :

Not Applicable

Contact information :

Barbara Glover, Director General
Canada Student Loans Directorate
200 Montcalm Street
Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
K1A 0J9
(819) 997-1094
barbara.glover@hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca

Name of Horizontal Initiative: National Child Benefit Program Initiative

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Income Security

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: 1998

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): Statutory

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

Through the Federal/Provincial/Territorial (F/P/T) National Child Benefit initiative, the Government of Canada is working with provincial and territorial governments¹ to provide income support, as well as benefits and services, for low-income families with children. The initiative also includes a First Nations component.

Shared outcome(s):

The National Child Benefit initiative has three goals:

• Help prevent and reduce the depth of child poverty;
• Promote attachment to the labour market by ensuring that families will always be better off as a result of working; and
• Reduce overlap and duplication by harmonizing program objectives and benefits and simplifying administration.

Annual National Child Benefit Progress Reports include information on the level of spending by all jurisdictions. There is a data collection process to which all participating jurisdictions contribute in order to present comparable information on benefits, programs and services provided as a result of the National Child Benefit initiative. The data submitted by each jurisdiction is reviewed jointly to ensure consistency in reporting. To obtain the most recent Progress Report or for further information, please visit the federal, provincial and territorial National Child Benefit website: www.nationalchildbenefit.ca.

Federal Spending:

The Government of Canada contributes to the National Child Benefit initiative through a supplement to its Canada Child Tax Benefit. In addition to the base benefit of the Canada Child Tax Benefit, which is targeted to both low- and middle-income families, the National Child Benefit Supplement provides extra income support to low-income families with children. Federal spending on the Canada Child Tax Benefit is tracked by the Canada Revenue Agency, which is responsible for the delivery of the National Child Benefit Supplement.

In 2009-2010, total annual federal support delivered through the Canada Child Tax Benefit, including the National Child Benefit Supplement, is projected to reach $9.96B, including a projected $3.69B through the National Child Benefit Supplement.

Provincial and territorial and First Nations Spending:

Under the National Child Benefit initiative, provinces, territories and First Nations provide benefits and services that further the goals of the initiative. The National Child Benefit Progress Report: 2006, reports that in 2005-2006, provinces, territories, and First Nations spent $873.9M in programs and services in key areas such as child/day care initiatives, child benefits and earned income supplements, early childhood services and children-at-risk services, supplementary health benefits, and youth initiatives. This includes First Nations reinvestments in programs and services which are estimated to be $58.0M in 2005-2006.

Indicators and Impacts:

The National Child Benefit Progress Report: 2006 includes an analysis of both societal level indicators, which measure areas such as low income and labour force attachment and do not infer that any changes are the result of the initiative, and direct outcome indicators, which measure only those changes that are directly attributed to the National Child Benefit initiative.

With respect to societal level indicators, the report shows that the proportion of families with children living in low income has declined significantly since the mid-1900s, decreasing from 17.6 percent in 1996 to 11.6 percent in 2004, based on Statistics Canada's post-tax low-income cut-offs. During this period, the number of children living in low income decreased from 1,304,000 in 1996 to 877,300 in 2004, a decrease of approximately 426,700 children.

Further, the report estimates that in 2004, as a direct result of the National Child Benefit initiative:

• 125,000 children in 59,000 families were prevented from living in low income, a reduction of 12.1 percent. This means that in 2004, there were 12.1 percent fewer families with children living in low income than there would have been without the National Child Benefit. These families saw their average disposable income increase by an estimated $2,400, or 9.3 percent.
• For those families with children who remained in low income, the National Child Benefit improved their disposable income by an average of $1,600 (9.1 percent). This means that the low-income gap (the additional amount of income needed by low-income families to reach the low-income line) was reduced by 18.5 percent in 2004.

In addition, in June 2005, federal, provincial and territorial governments released a synthesis report of a comprehensive evaluation of the first three years of the National Child Benefit initiative (1988-1999, 1999-2000, 2000-2001). The evaluation compiled evidence from a number of studies and showed that the National Child Benefit initiative is meeting its goals. In addition, a process to launch further evaluation has begun.

For a complete discussion of indicators, please see Chapters 5 and 6 of the National Child Benefit Progress Report: 2006. For a discussion of evaluation results, please see the Evaluation of the National Child Benefit Initiative: Synthesis Report. These reports are available free of charge on the National Child Benefit website, at: www.nationalchildbenefit.ca.

Governance structure(s):

The National Child Benefit initiative Governance and Accountability Framework outlines the key characteristics of the federal, provincial and territorial partnership: cooperation, openness, flexibility, evolution and accountability. As a co-operative effort among governments, the National Child Benefit initiative combines the strengths of a national program with the flexibility of provincial and territorial initiatives designed to meet the specific needs and conditions within each jurisdiction.

With respect to accountability, under the Governance and Accountability Framework, federal, provincial and territorial Ministers Responsible for Social Services have committed to sharing data on reinvestment initiatives and reviewing results and outcomes achieved in order to identify best practices. Federal, provincial and territorial governments have also agreed to report annually to the public with a primary focus on performance of the initiative. To date, eight annual progress reports have been published, as well as a synthesis report on a comprehensive evaluation of the first three years of the initiative.

The Federal Role:

Under the National Child Benefit initiative, the Government of Canada provides additional income support to low-income families with children via the National Child Benefit Supplement component of the Canada Child Tax Benefit. Canada Revenue Agency delivers these benefits to families.

Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is responsible for policy development with respect to the National Child Benefit initiative, and the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development represents the Government of Canada in this federal/provincial/territorial initiative.

The Canada Child Tax Benefit (including the National Child Benefit Supplement) is a tax measure, and is administered by Canada Revenue Agency. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Citizenship and Immigration Canada have roles in reinvestments and investments

The Provincial and Territorial Role:

Under the National Child Benefit initiative, provinces, territories and First Nations provide benefits and services that further the goals of the initiative. The initiative is designed so that provinces, territories and First Nations have the flexibility to develop and deliver programs and services that best meet the needs and priorities of their communities. As part of this flexibility, provinces and territories may adjust social assistance or child benefit payments by the full or partial amount of the National Child Benefit Supplement. This approach has resulted in families on social assistance being no worse off in terms of their level of benefits, while providing additional funds for new or enhanced provincial and territorial programs benefiting low-income families with children.

It is important to note that, as the National Child Benefit initiative has matured, the majority of provinces and territories no longer recover increases to the National Child Benefit Supplement. This means that the vast majority of children living in low-income families, including those on social assistance, are currently receiving some or all of the National Child Benefit Supplement.

Under the National Reinvestment Framework, provincial and territorial governments, along with First Nations, have committed to re-allocating available social assistance funds into benefits and services for children in low-income families that further the goals of the initiative. Jurisdictions have focused reinvestments primarily in key areas:

• Child Benefits and Earned Income Supplements;
• Child Care;
• Early Childhood Services and Children-at-Risk Services;
• Supplementary Health Benefits;
• Youth Initiatives; and
• Other Benefits and Services.

First Nations Role:

The federal government is responsible for ensuring programs for First Nations children on reserve are comparable to those available to other Canadian children. Under the National Child Benefit, First Nations have the flexibility to reinvest savings from adjustments to social assistance into programs and services tailored to meet the needs and priorities of individual communities. Some 500 First Nation communities participate in the National Child Benefit and implement their own programs.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Not Applicable

Contact information:

François Weldon, A/Director General
Social Policy Directorate
Strategic Policy and Research Branch
HRSDC
(819) 994-3184

¹ The Government of Quebec has stated that it agrees with the basic principles of the National Child Benefit. Quebec chose not to participate in the initiative because it wanted to assume control over income support for children in Quebec; however, it has adopted a similar approach to the National Child Benefit. Throughout this text, references to joint federal, provincial and territorial positions do not include Quebec.
² While Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is responsible for policy development with respect to the National Child Benefit initiative, the Canada Child Tax Benefit (including the National Child Benefit Supplement) is a tax measure, and is administered by Canada Revenue Agency. In addition, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Citizenship and Immigration Canada have roles in reinvestments and investments.

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Homelessness Partnering Strategy

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Social Development

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: April 1, 2009

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31, 2011

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): $269.6M over two years

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy makes strategic investments in community priorities and includes a planning process that encourages cooperation between governments, agencies and community-based organizations to find local solutions for homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless. The Homelessness Partnering Strategy is designed to provide supports to 61 designated communities and some small, rural and Aboriginal communities to develop community-based measures that assist homeless individuals and families move toward self-sufficiency, thereby contributing to society and the economy. Although the responsibility for homelessness programs falls under Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, most Homelessness Partnering Strategy program components are delivered by regional staff, now part of Service Canada.

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy works to prevent and reduce homelessness across Canada through:

• investments in transitional and supportive housing through a housing-first approach;
• support to community-based efforts to prevent and reduce homelessness;
• partnerships between the federal government, provinces, and territories; and
• collaboration with other federal departments and agencies.

For more information, please visit the Homelessness Partnering Strategy website:
www.homelessness.gc.ca http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/homelessness/index.shtml

Shared outcome(s):

Income security, access to opportunities and well-being for individuals, families and communities.

Governance structure(s):

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy community-based program is delivered via two models:

• community entity model: Under this model, the Community Advisory Board recommends projects to the community entity (an incorporated organization) which is the decision-making body responsible for approving project proposals and determining the eligibility of projects. HRSDC is responsible for managing the contribution agreement and all related activities. The community, in consultation with Service Canada, has designated responsibility for program delivery to a specific local organization; and
• shared delivery model: Under this model, the community advisory body reviews project proposals and makes recommendations to HRSDC which manages the contribution agreement and all related activities. Both Service Canada and the community work in partnership to support funding priorities, resulting in a joint selection and decision-making process. The Minister approves the project proposals.

In Quebec, the Homelessness Partnering Strategy stream is delivered under a formal Canada-Quebec Agreement, in collaboration with the Province of Quebec.

The Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS) supports the Homelessness Partnering Strategy's national data system on homelessness. Using data collected mainly through shelters, HIFIS provides information on the characteristics of Canada's homeless population. This information contributes to: increased understanding of homelessness in Canada; informed policy development; and improved planning and development of effective measures to prevent and reduce homelessness. HIFIS serves stakeholders across the country, including service providers, researchers and multiple levels of government. In addition, HIFIS provides operational support to shelters and other facilities through free-of-charge software and training support.

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy recognizes that the prevention and reduction of homelessness requires collaboration among all levels of government, particularly the federal and provincial/territorial governments. Provinces and territories are being invited to enter into bilateral agreements with the federal government to support community efforts to address homelessness. The Canada-Quebec agreement serves as a model that will be adapted for other jurisdictions. Partnering agreements offer provinces and territories the opportunity to participate in community planning and priority-setting at the outset. Agreements support the alignment of federal, provincial and territorial investments to enhance linkages between social services and housing as well as to address the operational sustainability of community projects. This partnering approach ensures that all of the necessary tools and supports are in place for homeless people to secure housing and supports that effectively meet their needs and for those at-risk of homelessness to attain housing stability.

Enhanced collaboration with other federal departments and agencies whose policies and programs are linked to homelessness is also essential. Horizontal pilot projects continue to be developed to facilitate a more coordinated approach to homelessness at the federal level, in recognition that homelessness interacts with an array of factors that relate to other federal program and policy areas, including: housing affordability; mental/physical health; labour market vulnerabilities; skills, education and literacy levels; community and personal safety; barriers facing newcomers; issues facing discharged offenders and Aboriginal issues. The key objectives of horizontal pilot projects are to: address common risk factors associated with homelessness and other policy areas; prevent homelessness by addressing its root causes; and reduce the negative outcomes on other policy areas caused by homelessness. These pilot projects test approaches on homelessness, and their results are expected to inform future policy development.

The Surplus Federal Real Property for Homelessness Initiative is a Homelessness Partnering Strategy program co-managed by Public Works and Government Services Canada and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, with advice and support from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Not Applicable

Contact information:

Barbara Lawless, A/Director General
Homelessness Partnering Secretariat
Place du Portage, Phase II
165 Hotel-de-Ville St.
Gatineau QC
(819) 994-4748
barbara. lawless@hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Early Childhood Development Agreement

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: September 2000 with funding beginning April 2001

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): $530.45 million for 2010-2011

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

In September 2000, First Ministers reached agreement on the federal, provincial and territorial Early Childhood Development Agreement, to improve and expand early childhood development supports for young children (prenatal to age 6) and for their parents.

In support of these objectives the Government of Canada transfers $500M/year via the Canada Social Transfer (CST) to provinces and territories. In budget 2007 a 3% escalator was added to CST transfers starting in 2009-2010.

Information about the Agreement, including the text of the First Ministers' communiqué on Early Childhood Development, is available on the federal, provincial and territorial web portal on early childhood development and early learning and child care at www.ecd-elcc.ca.

Shared outcome(s):

The objectives of the initiative, as outlined in the Early Childhood Development Agreement are:

• to promote early childhood development so that, to their fullest potential, children will be physically and emotionally healthy, safe and secure, ready to learn, and socially engaged and responsible; and
• to help children reach their potential and to help families support their children within strong communities.

Governance structure(s):

In the Early Childhood Development Agreement, First Ministers recognized that provinces and territories have the primary responsibility for early childhood development programs and services.

Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Social Services and Ministers of Health are responsible for implementation of the commitments in the Agreement. Implementation has been tasked to a Working Group comprised of officials from all jurisdictions (including Quebec, which participates as an observer). The Working Group reports to Deputy Ministers Responsible for Social Services. The Working Group is jointly chaired by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Saskatchewan.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Provincial and territorial governments are investing the funds transferred to them by the Government of Canada in any or all of the following four areas of action outlined in the Early Childhood Development Agreement:

• promoting healthy pregnancy, birth and infancy;
• improving parenting and family supports;
• strengthening early childhood development, learning and care; and
• strengthening community supports.

All participating federal, provincial and territorial governments have committed to three reporting requirements:

• Each government released a first report on Early Childhood Development programs and expenditures for the 2000-2001 fiscal year, providing a baseline against which new investments can be tracked.
• In fall 2002, governments began annual reporting, using a shared framework with comparable program indicators, to track progress in improving and expanding early childhood development programs and services within the four areas for action.
• In fall 2002, governments began regular reporting on children's well-being, using a common set of outcome indicators. Government of Canada reports are available at www.socialunion.gc.ca.

The Government of Quebec supports the general principles expressed in the Early Childhood Development Initiative but did not participate in developing the Initiative because it wants to retain sole responsibility for social matters. However, it receives its share of funding granted by the Government of Canada and makes significant investments in programs and services that benefit families and children.

Contact information:

François Weldon
Director
Family Policy Division
Telephone: (819) 997-9950

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Federal Elder Abuse Initiative

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

Lead department program activity: Social Development

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: April 1, 2008

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 31, 2011

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): $13,050,000

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

The overarching objectives of the Federal Elder Abuse Initiative are to raise awareness of elder abuse throughout society, particularly among seniors, their families, and key professional groups, and to ensure the availability of appropriate elder abuse-related information, resources and tools.

To address this, federal elder abuse activities are coordinated interdepartmentally and will involve the cooperation and collaboration of the Department of Justice Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police under the leadership of HRSDC.

The centrepiece of the Federal Elder Abuse Initiative is a public awareness campaign using various media and in particular, television. Generic information and resource materials for frontline workers (medical and legal, etc.) will be developed to provide key professional groups with the information necessary to identify cases of elder abuse, access the appropriate resources, and take measures to provide assistance to victims.

Shared outcome(s):

• Seniors, their families, the general population and frontline professionals are more aware of elder abuse and what to do to respond to it.

Governance structure(s):

The Seniors and Pensions Policy Secretariat within HRSDC is the focal point for Government of Canada activities related to seniors.

The Task Force on Elder Abuse within the Seniors and Pensions Policy Secretariat leads a working group of officials from partner departments/agencies to coordinate the implementation of Government of Canada initiatives to raise awareness and to develop and disseminate tools and supports for frontline workers. Partner departments/agencies retain responsibility for planning, programming and budgeting their own resources to implement their activities.

The working group developed a performance measurement framework, including a logic model, to identify the relationships between departmental/agency activities, outputs, and outcomes, and a suite of performance indicators to measure progress against outputs/outcomes. The working group coordinates reporting and monitors performance and results over the course of the initiative.

The Interdepartmental Committee on Seniors provides senior-level oversight and direction for the Federal Elder Abuse Initiative. The Committee provides a forum to update federal departments on the progress and achievements of the initiative and identifies opportunities to align the initiative with other government initiatives and priorities.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable):

Through a call for proposals process, national associations will be supported to develop information materials about elder abuse for their frontline professionals who regularly come in contact with older Canadians.

Contact information:

Dominique La Salle, Director General
Seniors and Pensions Policy Secretariat
Income Security and Social Development
Place Vanier, Tower B
355 North River Road
Ottawa ON
dominique.lasalle@hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca

Name of Horizontal Initiative: Multilateral Framework on Early Learning and Child Care

Name of lead department(s): Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)

Start date of the Horizontal Initiative: March 2003

End date of the Horizontal Initiative: Ongoing

Total federal funding allocation (start to end date): $371.315 million in 2010-2011

Description of the Horizontal Initiative (including funding agreement):

In March 2003, federal, provincial and territorial Ministers Responsible for Social Services, reached agreement on a framework for improving access to affordable, quality, provincially and territorially regulated early learning and child care programs and services. Under the Multilateral Framework on Early Learning and Child Care, the Government of Canada provided $1.05 billion over five years (2003-2008) through the Canada Social Transfer (CST) to support provincial and territorial government investments in early learning and child care. In budget 2007 the CST was renewed until 2013-2014 and a 3% escalator was added to CST transfers starting in 2009-2010. The Government of Canada is providing over $1.97 billion over six years (2008-2014).

The objective of this initiative, which complements the September 2000 Early Childhood Development Agreement, is to further promote early childhood development and support the participation of parents in employment or training by improving access to affordable, quality early learning and child care programs and services.

Governments also committed to transparent public reporting that will give Canadians a clear idea of the progress being made in improving access to affordable, quality early learning and child care programs and services, beginning with a baseline report in November 2003. Government of Canada reports are available at www.socialunion.gc.ca.

Information about the initiative, including the text of the Multilateral Framework on Early Learning and Child Care, is available on the federal, provincial and territorial Web portal on early childhood development and early learning and child care at www.ecd-elcc.ca.

Shared outcome(s):

The objectives of the initiative, as outlined in the Multilateral Framework on Early Learning and Child Care are:

• to promote early childhood development; and
• to support the participation of parents in employment or training by improving access to affordable, quality early learning and child care programs and services.

Governance structure(s):

The Multilateral Framework for Early Learning and Child Care recognizes that provinces and territories have the primary responsibility for early learning and child care programs and services.

Implementation of the commitments outlined in the Multilateral Framework has been tasked to a Working Group comprised of officials from all jurisdictions (including Québec, which participates as an observer). This Working Group reports to Deputy Ministers Responsible for Social Services, and is jointly chaired by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Saskatchewan.

Results to be achieved by non-federal partners (if applicable) :

Provincial and territorial governments have agreed to invest the funding provided in regulated early learning and child care programs for children under the age of six. Early learning and child care programs and services funded through this initiative will primarily provide direct care and early learning for children in settings such as child care centres, family child care homes, preschools, and nursery schools. Investments can include capital and operating funding, fee subsidies, wage enhancements, training, professional development and support, quality assurance, and parent information and referral. Programs and services that are part of the formal school system are not included in this initiative.

Governments also committed to transparent public reporting that will give Canadians a clear idea of the progress being made in improving access to affordable, quality early learning and child care programs and services, beginning with a baseline report in November 2003 and annual reporting in November 2004.

The Government of Quebec supports the general principles expressed in the Early Learning and Child Care Initiative but did not participate in developing the Initiative because it wants to retain sole responsibility for social matters. However, it receives its share of funding granted by the Government of Canada and makes significant investments in programs and services that benefit families and children.

Contact information:

François Weldon
Director, Family Policy Division
Telephone: (819) 997-9950

HRSDC Internal Audit

HRSDC's annual planning cycle is based on risk. At this time, the Risk-Based Internal Audit Plan for 2010-2013 is being developed, with approval anticipated in early 2010-2011.

Below is a listing of internal audit engagements identified in the 2009-2012 Risk-Based Internal Audit Plan. Please note that the list of projects planned for 2010-2013 may change as a result of the risk-based audit planning process for 2010-2013.

Please Note:
Once approved, HRSDC internal audit reports are posted on the website listed below.
http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/publications_resources/audit/index.shtml

^a Employment Insurance funds are only spent for Employment Insurance purposes.