Minister Anandasangaree's appearance before the Committee of the Whole - 2025-26 Main estimates - June 5, 2025
Public Safety Canada

Overview note

Pursuant to a motion adopted by the House on May 27th, you are invited to appear before the Committee of the Whole on the Main Estimates 2025-2026 on June 5, 2025, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

Meeting scenario

You will appear from the floor of the House of Commons for the full four hour session. The Hon. Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, will also be appearing at the same time.
You will be supported on the floor by Tricia Geddes, Deputy Minister, Public Safety Canada (PS). Additional support will be provided by officials from the PS portfolio, both from the Government lobby and PS Headquarters. They will work in close coordination with your staff, who will serve as the main conduit for delivering supplementary information, talking points, or corrections to the record as needed. Unlike typical Committee appearances, officials will not be permitted to respond directly to questions.

Members of Parliament (MP) will be allocated 15-minute speaking slots, alternating between parties, and distributed proportionately based on each party's representation in the House of Commons. We anticipate the following speaking order for the four sessions of the Committee of the Whole:

During their allotted time, government MPs typically use up to ten minutes for prepared remarks, followed by five minutes of questions directed to ministers. This approach helps maximize the impact of government messaging while also providing ministers with a brief window to prepare for the next round of opposition questions.

Opposition MPs typically use their full 15-minute segments to question ministers directly. As in Question Period, ministers are expected to match the length and tone of their responses to the questions posed. Opposition members often vary their questioning styles—some may use rapid-fire questions to prompt concise answers, while others may shift topics frequently to test a minister's breadth of knowledge and responsiveness. It's also common for opposition MPs to split their time with colleagues, adding further variety to the exchange.

Opposition MPs are free to raise any issue, provided their questions generally relate to the Public Safety minister's portfolio.

Segments tend to move quickly, often leaving little time to provide ministers—who are actively responding to questions—with additional talking points. However, every effort will be made to ensure that exempt staff communicating directly with you are well-equipped with supplementary materials or talking points, should the need arise.

Parliamentary Environment

The 45th Parliament commenced regular sittings on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Public Safety has already featured prominently in early Question Periods, with members raising issues related to crime, border security, and emergency management.

During the recent election, several themes related to the Public Safety portfolio were featured in party platforms and are expected to remain key areas of focus throughout the 45th Parliament.

Image description: Party Platform Analysis - Election 2025

This chart shows how many commitments the Bloc Québécois, Conservative Party, and New Democratic Party made on topics related to Public Safety's portfolio. The New Democratic Party made relatively few commitments, the Bloc Québécois mainly focused on crime and borders, and the Conservatives made the most commitments, focusing on borders, crime, and the public service.

Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, was introduced on June 3, 2025. Since introduction of Bill C-2, political parties have responded as follows:

• Conservative Party of Canada (CPC)
  • Measures to address illegal guns entering Canada is an ongoing area of interest, and they will likely ask why specific measures were not included in C-2.
  • Recent comments have focused on immigration and questioning the Government's ability to ensure that individuals no longer eligible to remain in Canada leave the country.
• Bloc Québécois (BQ)
  • No major interventions or commentary. However, government measures to address asylum claimants is an ongoing area of interest for the party.
  • Proposed measures to strengthen the immigration system generally align with the policy direction outlined in the party's platform during the recent election.
• New Democratic Party (NDP)
  • MP Jenny Kwan (Vancouver East) indicated that the bill was "alarming to many Canadians" for its risks to civil liberties, raising concerns that it may affect an individual's right to due process.
  • MP Kwan questioned why there were no measures proposed to target illegal guns coming from the US.
  • MP Kwan also highlighted concerns that these stricter measures could lead to more undocumented individuals by driving people underground.
• Green Party of Canada (GPC)
  • MP Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands) noted concerns with the legislation, calling it "a worrying start in the government's legislative agenda".

On June 3, 2025, the House of Commons held an emergency debate on the wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The New Democratic Pary (NDP) MP Leah Gazan (Winnipeg Centre) initiated the debate. MPs from all parties expressed concern over the immediate crisis and its broader implications, including the importance of long-term mitigation efforts.

New Democratic Party (NDP)

• The NDP members strongly criticized the government's response to the crisis, highlighting perceived procedural delays that hindered timely aid.
• The NDP members also emphasized the severe impact on Indigenous communities, calling for greater collaboration and respect for treaty obligations. They also stressed the urgent need for improved emergency preparedness infrastructure, including investments in firefighting resources and early warning systems.
• They also stressed the need for more aggressive environmental policies, including a shift toward renewable energy. They also called for immediate and long-term support for affected communities to ensure recovery and resilience.

Conservative Party of Canada (CPC)

• CPC members also criticized the government for perceived procedural delays that affected timely aid, urging more efficient coordination among all levels of government.
• CPC members also advocated for a coordinated strategy that would mobilize capacity across the country in addressing these concerns.
• Some MPs questioned the effectiveness of current federal environmental policies, advocating for a balanced approach that considers economic impacts, especially in rural and resource-dependent areas. They also stressed the importance of targeted economic relief for communities affected by the wildfires.

Bloc Québécois (BQ)

• BQ MPs emphasized the link between climate change and the growing severity of wildfires, urging stronger federal action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• BQ MPs also stressed the importance of respecting provincial jurisdiction, particularly in forest management and emergency response, while calling for increased federal support that does not infringe on provincial authority.
• BQ MPs also advocated for aid to affected communities, long-term wildfire prevention strategies through improved land management and infrastructure, and meaningful collaboration with Indigenous peoples, recognizing their unique knowledge and the disproportionate impact of wildfires on their communities.

Liberal Party of Canada (LPC)

• LPC members outlined the federal government's commitment to working collaboratively with provincial and Indigenous governments to ensure timely deployment of supports.
• The Hon. Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, emphasized the federal government's commitment to supporting provinces and Indigenous communities in responding to the wildfire crisis.
  • Minister Olszewski highlighted the rapid approval of Requests for Federal Assistance, including the deployment of the Canadian Armed Forces to assist with evacuations of at-risk communities in Manitoba.
  • Minister Olszewski praised the efforts of first responders and volunteers, reaffirmed the importance of intergovernmental coordination, and underscored the need for long-term investments in climate resilience and emergency preparedness.

Minister Anandasangaree's remarks

Speaking Notes for The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree
Minister of Public Safety

Main estimates 2025-26 (June 5, 2025).

House of Commons

Good evening, Mr. Chair and Honourable Committee Members.

Thank you for this invitation.

It is my privilege to appear before you today as Canada's new Minister of Public Safety.

I am humbled and honoured by the Prime Minister's appointment. I recognize it is a role that comes with great responsibility and I aim to undertake my duties in service to Canadians with the utmost dedication and commitment.

Protecting the public is one of the Government's foremost duties and is an obligation that is shared by all Parliamentarians. As I serve in this role, I also commit to working with all members of this Committee, and indeed all Parliamentarians, as we aim to fulfil this fundamental obligation.

Mr. Chair, these Main estimates will ensure we can deliver on our collective duty to Canadians.

To fulfil our obligation, we must first ensure that we can continue to support all of Public Safety's dedicated personnel–those who work hard every day to keep Canadians safe from harm.

As a reflection of its importance to our country's security, the public safety portfolio is the largest non-military portfolio in the Government. Altogether, the public safety portfolio includes over 60,000 personnel.

Every day, each of these individuals is dedicated to keeping Canadians safe and secure, while they safeguard our rights and freedoms.

Mr. Chair, on a portfolio-wide basis, the total authorities sought in the Main estimates for this fiscal year will result in funding approvals of $16.2 billion for the Public Safety Portfolio.

That would result in a net increase of $3.1 billion, or 23.7 per cent over the previous year's Estimates.

Mr. Chair, I'll first point to four main areas for this funding.

For Public Safety Canada, the total funding sought is $2.16 billion, which is an increase of $557.7 million or 34.7 percent over the previous year.

For the Canada Border Services Agency, the total funding sought is $2.99 billion–an increase of $343.4 million or 13 percent over the previous year.

For the Correctional Service of Canada, the total funding sought is $3.86 billion–an increase of $691.3 million or 21.8 percent over the previous year.

Finally, for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the total funding sought is $6.08 billion–an increase of $1.23 billion or 25.3 percent.

Mr. Chair, I'll now speak briefly to the key items that are affecting these funding levels.

For Public Safety Canada, among the most material increases are:

• $66 million for the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program (DFAA); and
• $447 million for the Assault Style Firearms Compensation Program.

As Honourable members are aware, the DFAA program has been in place for over 50 years. To date, it has provided over $9 billion in funds to provinces and territories for the cost of response, recovery, and rebuilding in the face of large-scale natural hazard disasters in Canada.

Over the past few years, the scale and frequency of disasters like floods, wildfires, and storms have greatly increased as evidenced by the many recent, tragic events that have transpired in Canada.

The increase in costs associated with the DFAA is based on forecasts from provinces and territories for expected disbursements under the DFAA for this fiscal year.

However, due to the unpredictable nature of natural disasters, DFAA funding levels may be adjusted throughout the year and can impact the DFAA's annual appropriation.

The Assault Style Firearms Compensation Program is a historic element of the Government's comprehensive strategy to combat gun violence.

In addition to restricting assault-style firearms in circulation, this strategy includes investments in border security to reduce firearms smuggling and trafficking, and intervention and prevention programs to stop gun and gang violence before it starts.

The Assault Style Firearms Compensation Program responds to a recommendation from the Mass Casualty Commission to "rapidly reduce the number of prohibited semi-automatic firearms in circulation in Canada".

Under this program, we are offering fair compensation to eligible firearms owners and businesses to support them in complying with the law.

Turning to the CSC, the main factors contributing to its increase in costs are:

• $367.7 million related to class action lawsuits; and
• $108.4 million to cover expenditures due to changes in offender population volumes and price fluctuations.

For the RCMP, the most material items contributing to its increase include:

• $535.4 million to address growth in the Contract Policing Program; and
• $222.2 million for the Presidency of the 2025 G7 Summit in Canada.

Finally, for the CBSA, some of the most significant factors contributing to the changes in its funding levels include:

• $109.1 million for Compensation adjustments;
• $92.1 million for Irregular Migration & Incremental Asylum; and
• $90.3 million for Immigration Holding Centres.

In addition, a further $128.7 million has been designated to CBSA and the RCMP to further enhance the integrity of Canada's borders.

As honourable members are aware, the Government has made it a top priority to secure our border.

Canada's Border Action Plan is backed by a $1.3 billion investment that will include key actions such as establishing a Joint Operational Intelligence Cell, listing transnational criminal organizations, and launching new intelligence partnerships.

We're are also enhancing surveillance of the border through the mobilization of law enforcement and civilian forces and the procurement of new and modernized equipment. Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are working on protecting the border.

These efforts are vital for Canada's sovereignty, security and prosperity.

Mr. Chair, these items represent some of the most significant changes in appropriations for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

As the Minister of Public Safety, my top priority will always be to ensure that each and every Canadian is safe and secure in our country.

As I already mentioned, it is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. As many members may have noticed, public safety is an issue that I have already been seized with for a number of years in my riding and community.

It is deeply important and personal for me, as my community has worked very hard over the years to support young people who have been impacted by violence, and to help counter violence and gun violence.

As the Minister of Public Safety, I will take great pride in this position of leadership that has a direct impact on the safety of all Canadians in their communities.

Once again, Mr. Chair, thank you for this invitation here today.

I look forward to your questions. Merci.

2025-26 Main estimates

The 2025-26 main estimates Seeking funding approvals for PS portfolio totaling $16.2B, representing net increase of 3.1B (23.7%) compare to last fiscal year.

Noticeable items affecting the increased Funding – Directly in Main Estimates:

• $342.6M for the ASFCP ($532.5M is included PS ($447M) and RCMP ($85.5M);
• $66.0M to PS for the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program (DFAA) –main estimates $616M;
• $14.9M to PS for the Canada Community Security Program;
• $13.5M to PS for the Canadian Red Cross's urgent relief effort related to floods, wildfires and COVID; and
• $10M to PS in new funding for Parliamentary District Policing Program

Important items affecting the increased Funding NOT Directly in Main Estimates:

• $535.4M to RCMP for the Contract Policing Program growth;
• $367.7M to CSC related to class action lawsuits;
• $279.3M to PS ($57.1M) and RCMP ($222.2M) for the Presidency of the G7;
• $277.5M to CSIS to modernize technology, equipment, infrastructure and compensation adjustments
• $231.9M to CBSA, RCMP and CSC - Compensation adjustments;
• $128.7M to CBSA, PS and RCMP for enhancing the integrity of Canada's borders;
• $108.4M to CSC to cover expenditures due to changes in offender population volumes and price fluctuations;
• $90.3M to CBSA for Immigration Holding Center;

Noticeable decreases Directly in Main Estimates:

• $33.5M (PS) Memorial Grants for First Responders–main estimate $21.6M
• $32.5M (PS) Building Safer Communities Fund (sunsetting this Fiscal)–main estimate $52.5M
• $14.6M (PS) Drug-Impaired Driving Program (sunsetting)–main estimates $0M

PS Critics profile

Conservative Party of Canada

Frank Caputo, Shadow Minister for Public Safety

Riding: Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola (British Columbia)

Parliamentary experience:

• MP since 2021
• Previous Committee Membership:
  • Vice-Chair, Veterans Affairs (December 2021 - October 2022)
  • Member, Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (September 2024 - January 2025)
  • Member, Public Safety and National Security (April 2024 - September 2024)
  • Member, Justice and Human Rights (October 2022 - April 2024)

Biography

MP Caputo holds a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University and obtained a Bachelor of Laws (with distinction) from the University of Saskatchewan and a Master of Laws from the University of Alberta.

After obtaining his law degrees, MP Caputo primarily worked as a Crown Prosecutor in his hometown of Kamloops B.C. He also worked as a Professor of Law at Thompson Rivers University, teaching in the faculties of business, sociology and law.

Private Members' Business (PMB) in the 44^th Parliament
(note that all the PMBs below were Outside the Order of Precedence upon dissolution of Parliament)

• C-313, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (justification for detention in custody)
• C-299, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (life imprisonment)
• C-274, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (detention in custody)

Dane Lloyd, Shadow Minister for Emergency Management and Community Resilience

Riding: Parkland (Alberta)

Parliamentary experience:

• MP since 2017(by-election)
• Previous Committee Membership:
  • Member, Public Safety and National Security (December 2021- January 2025)
  • Member, Natural Resources (February 2021- August 2021)
  • Member, Government Operations and Estimates (October 2020 - February 2021)
  • Member, Veterans Affairs (February 2020 - August 2020)
  • Member, COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 - June 2020)
  • Member, Industry, Science and Technology (January 2018–September 2019)

Biography

MP Lloyd is a graduate from Trinity Western University with a degree in History and Political Studies in 2013.

A former Parliamentary Advisor to St. Albert-Edmonton MP Michael Cooper, he previously worked for the Honourable Ed Fast, former Minister of International Trade, and worked under the Honourable Jason Kenney at the Department of Citizenship and Immigration. MP Lloyd currently holds a commission as an infantry officer in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves.

Private Members' Business (PMB) in the 44^th Parliament
(note that the PMB below was Outside the Order of Precedence upon dissolution of Parliament)

• C-424, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and the Prisons and Reformatories Act

Doug Shipley, Associate Shadow Minister for Combatting Crime

Riding: Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte (Ontario)

Parliamentary experience:

• MP since 2019
• Previous Committee Membership:
  • Vice-Chair, Public Safety and National Security (September 2023 - September 2024)
  • Member, Public Safety and National Security (December 2021 - January 2025)
  • Member, Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (October 2020–August 2021)
  • Member, Public Safety and National Security (February 2020- August 2020)
  • Member, COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020–June 2020)

Biography

Prior to being elected as Member of Parliament, MP Shipley was elected to the City of Barrie council for three consecutive terms. While serving as Councillor for Ward 3, he gained a great deal of experience as Chair of Finance and Corporate Services, Chair of Infrastructure, Investment and Development Services Committee, and Deputy Chair of the Barrie Police Services Board. He also sat on several committees, including the Barrie and Area Physician Recruitment Task Force. MP Shipley owned and operated a small business for over 20 years.

Private Members' Business (PMB) in the 44^th Parliament
(note that the PMB below was Outside the Order of Precedence upon dissolution of Parliament)

• C-389, An Act to amend the Excise Tax Act (automated external defibrillators)

Bloc Québécois

Claude DeBellefeuille, Sécurité publique et protection civile

Riding: Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon (Quebec)

Parliamentary experience:

• MP since 2019 (previously an MP 2006-2011)
• Member of the Board of Internal Economy (October 2019–December 2024)
  • Whip of the Bloc Québécois (2019-2024)

Biography

A social worker by training, MP Claude DeBellefeuille had served as Chief of Staff at Quebec's Ministry of Municipal Affairs and has held managerial roles within both the public health and social services network and the community sector.

Private Members' Business (PMBs) in the 44^th Parliament

• C-238, An Act respecting the French language (The bill was defeated at second reading in the House of Commons on Wednesday, September 28, 2022)

Mandate overview

Portfolio priorities - Key messages

• In my capacity as the Minister of Public Safety, I will contribute to our Government's collective missions by fulfilling my mandate to protect our national security, contribute to safer communities, and restore public confidence in the immigration, border enforcement, and criminal justice systems.
• These factors underpin a climate of confidence and predictability that will be key to stability, growth, investment, and prosperity. They also assert Canada's sovereignty, and affirm our value as an international partner.
• From law enforcement, corrections, and community safety, to border control and national security, my Department and agencies play a critical role and contribute to a strong, sovereign, secure, and united Canada.
• Foremost among my priorities will be to ensure the safe passage of Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act. This critical legislation will provide us the necessary tools to protect our border, and bolster our response to increasingly sophisticated criminal networks.
• I am also deeply committed to implement the remainder of the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program, to get dangerous firearms with large caliber and rapid-fire capacity out of our communities.
• Similarly, I will address the evolving security landscape and further establish ourselves as a valuable security-intelligence partner to address national and economic security threats related to critical infrastructure; cybersecurity; espionage; terrorism and violent extremism; serious and organized crime; transnational repression.
• Finally, I intend to follow through on our Government's commitments to train 1,000 additional RCMP personnel and secure additional CBSA resources to build safer communities and crack down on organized crime, especially auto thefts and fentanyl smuggling.

Background

Issue

• Prime Minister Carney released a single mandate letter to provide direction on the Government's priorities, organized around 7 key missions. While fulfilling the core responsibilities as a member of the Ministry, each Minister has been asked to identify how they can contribute to these missions.

Minister of Public Safety Mandate

• The Public Safety Portfolio is composed of the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (the Department, PS) and five agencies: Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), and the Parole Board of Canada (PBC), and three review bodies: the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP (CRCC), the Office of the Correctional Investigator (OCI), and the RCMP External Review Committee (ERC).
• The Portfolio is the biggest, non-military Portfolio in the Government of Canada. The Portfolio's 2021-22 budget is more than $10 billion, and it employs more than 69,800 full-time equivalents working in every part of the country and internationally. Each organization contributes to the public safety agenda through its unique mandate and responsibilities.
• The mandate of the Department of Public Safety and its Portfolio Agencies is vast and includes responsibilities related to national security, crime prevention, community safety, law enforcement, border management/enforcement, federal correctional services and parole.

Initiative to Take Action Against Gun And Gang Violence (PS, CBSA, RCMP)

Key messages

• The Government is committed to taking decisive action against gun and gang violence. By strengthening firearms laws and making significant investments, we are making our communities safer and supporting law enforcement in their efforts to disrupt criminal networks.
• The Initiative to Take Action Against Gun And Gang Violence (ITAAGGV) is built on three pillars: investing in communities, enhancing federal enforcement capacity, and strengthening federal leadership. This integrated approach ensures that we are not only addressing the symptoms of gun and gang violence, but also tackling its root causes.
• We are equipping the RCMP and CBSA with the tools and resources they need to be more effective—from advanced ballistics analysis and intelligence gathering to cutting-edge detection technologies at our borders. These enhancements are critical to intercepting illegal firearms and dismantling gang operations.
• Through the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund and the Youth Gang Prevention Fund, we are investing directly in communities—especially Indigenous communities—to support prevention, intervention, and gang exit strategies. This is about giving young people better choices and safer futures.
• Public Safety Canada is also taking a leadership role in improving national data collection, research, and information sharing. By working closely with provinces, territories, and municipalities, we are building a coordinated, evidence-based response to gun and gang violence that avoids duplication and maximizes impact.
• Our Government will continue to pursue a comprehensive approach to keep Canadians and Canadian communities safe.

If pressed

Q1 – Firearm laws

• Significant enhancements have been made to Canada's firearms laws.
• New licence requirements are in effect, maximum penalties for firearms trafficking and smuggling have been increased and new offences to help address ghost guns, and a suite of new harm reduction measures are in place to help address risks posed by firearms among at-risk populations.
• Work will continue to ensure Canada's firearms regime is responsible and effective, supporting the safe use of firearms by law-abiding firearms owners across Canada and protecting Canadian communities against the devasting impact of firearms violence on our communities.

Q2 – Law enforcement

• Effective enforcement and operational cooperation is critical to combatting firearms violence, and significant investments have been made to enhance law enforcement and border security.
• This includes funding to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to increase capacity to trace crime guns and enhance anti-smuggling activities, and funding for Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to strengthen border controls to prevent firearms smuggling into Canada.
• We will also continue to strengthen cooperation with United States partners, including through the Cross Border Firearms Task Force.

Q3 – Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund (GGVAF)

• The GGVAF supports provinces, territories, and partners in preventing and addressing gun and gang violence in communities across Canada. Partners are currently using funds to:
• Develop and deliver gun and gang violence prevention and intervention initiatives.
• Enhance law enforcement and prosecution capacity to address gun and gang violence.
• Support data gathering/reporting, and research, knowledge development and information around gun and gang violence.
• Provide training for enforcement, prevention, or other professionals; and
• Support the development/refinement of strategies on gun and gang violence and the measurement of results of initiatives.
• P/Ts have signed multi-year agreements through 2028.
• This work builds on the significant new measures now in place to strengthen the firearms regime, combat illicit firearms activity, and address risks posed by firearms in gender-based and intimate partner violence.

Q4 – RCMP activities

• As part of this initiative, the RCMP is significantly expanding its capacity to investigate and disrupt gun and gang-related crime across Canada by:
• Bolstering investigative firearms support nationwide;
• Leveraging increased capacity to conduct physical firearms inspections;
• Supporting strategic intelligence analysis related to street gangs;
• Prioritizing the use of the Canadian Integrated Ballistics Identification Network for gang-related cases;
• Providing anonymous online capability to investigate firearm trafficking and smuggling;
• Enhancing analytical capacity to develop and produce actionable intelligence; and
• Establishing the Criminal Firearms Strategic and Operational Support Services team to coordinate efforts and support initiative partners with tools, strategic analysis, and research related to criminal gun usage and gang violence.

Q5 – CBSA activities

• The CBSA is investing in new technologies and specialized training to better interdict illicit trafficking across the border by:
• Procuring detection technology for international postal processing facilities and major international airport facilities to streamline the inspection of mail and air cargo;
• Constructing facilities and investing in training to increase CBSA's detector dog team capacity to identify drugs and firearms at ports of entry through less invasive means;
• Investing in IT capabilities to effectively leverage Interpol information to interdict high risk travellers at the earliest point in the continuum; and
• Developing and deploying national training to enhance the CBSA's effectiveness to identify, detect, and interdict illicit trafficking.

Background

Description

These activities deliver on a Budget 2016 Government commitment to take action against gun and gang violence by removing handguns and assault-style firearms from our streets, and for the Minister of Public Safety to work with provincial, territorial and municipal counterparts to develop a strategy on how the federal government can best support communities and law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to make it harder for criminals to obtain and use firearms, and to reduce gun and gang violence.

Source of funds - (GGVAF)

In 2018, $356.1 million over five years was allocated for the ITAAGGV. In 2023, the initiative was renewed for an additional five years through 2028. The majority of funds (over $390.6 million) are allocated to provinces and territories (P/T) under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund (GGVAF) to combat gun and gang violence in communities across Canada.

Funding to enhance Canada's Firearm Control Framework (PS, CBSA, RCMP)

Key messages

• Our government is committed to a balanced approach—one that protects public safety while respecting the rights of lawful firearm owners. We are implementing effective, evidence-based measures that target those who misuse firearms, without placing undue burden on responsible Canadians.
• Through this funding, we are enhancing Canada's firearm control framework to reduce gun crime and illegal firearm activity. This includes implementing key elements of former Bill C-21, such as new 'yellow flag' laws for temporary licence suspensions and enhanced revocation measures to protect individuals from domestic violence and stalking.
• Effective enforcement and operational cooperation is critical to combatting firearms violence, and significant investments have been made to enhance law enforcement and border security.
• This includes funding to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to increase capacity to trace crime guns and enhance anti-smuggling activities, and funding for Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to strengthen border controls to prevent firearms smuggling into Canada.
• We will also continue to strengthen cooperation with United States partners, including through the Cross Border Firearms Task Force.
• These measures complement other significant investments to enhance law enforcement capacity in Canada and at the border, as well as to support community prevention and intervention programs.
• Everyone in Canada deserves to be safe and to feel safe in their homes and in their communities. Our Government will continue to play a leadership role and stands ready to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, and Indigenous communities in taking action to reduce gun violence.

If pressed

Q1 – Firearm laws

• Significant enhancements have been made to Canada's firearms laws.
• New licence requirements are in effect, maximum penalties for firearms trafficking and smuggling have been increased, and a suite of new harm reduction tools are in place.
• Work will continue to ensure Canada's firearms regime is responsible and effective, supporting the safe use of firearms by law-abiding firearm owners across Canada while protecting Canadian communities against the devasting impact of firearms violence on our communities.

Q2 – CBSA activities

• The CBSA plays a critical role in detecting and interdicting illicit firearms entering Canada.
• The CBSA contributes to the Government's firearm-related commitments through the implementation of a Firearms Strategy focusing on the identification, disruption, interdiction, enforcement, investigation and prosecution of illicit firearms and related activities using an intelligence-led, problem solving and integrated approach. The Firearms Strategy also focuses on partnerships with domestic and international partners in combatting the threat that firearms pose to our community.
• In 2025-26, the CBSA will provide investigative leads to better position the Agency and its law enforcement partners to ensure a more agile response to organized firearm smuggling activities. To address policy, legislative and regulatory issues surrounding the movement of firearms and weapons, the CBSA will continue working closely with other government departments to support the firearms strategy outlined in former Bill C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms).

Q3 – RCMP activities

• The RCMP supports Canada's firearm control efforts through the Canadian Firearms Program, which supports the administration of the Firearms Act to ensure safe and lawful firearm ownership. It also provides technical and intelligence support to law enforcement through forensic analysis, criminal intelligence sharing, and investigations into firearms trafficking and smuggling.
• In FY 2025 to 2026, the RCMP will:
• continue to develop and maintain collaborative partnerships between national firearms intelligence analysts and partner agencies to exchange information and work cooperatively to develop the most complete and comprehensive intelligence products.
• continue to onboard human resources within National Forensic Laboratory Services and provide required specialized forensic training. New scientific instrumentation will be used to ensure sufficient capacity and optimized processing times.
• work to advance its Digital Policing Strategy, including by exploring and implementing new technology and equipment to support front-line officers and employees.
• advance modernization through new hardware, software and other policing technologies, including Cloud and AI-based tools.
• update and implement enhancements to its Canadian National Firearms Tracing Centre;
• conduct and disseminate research on the proliferation, trends and rapidly changing technology related to illegally manufactured firearms and parts, including 3D printing technology;
• provide identification and classification expertise for firearms and related devices, conduct inspections, deliver technical training on global trends, and perform regular updates to the Firearms Reference Table.

Background

Description

• Firearms-related violence is fueling public concern and giving rise to continued demands for federal action. A wide range of enhanced firearms measures are in place and investments made that prioritize public safety, aimed at reducing gun crime and criminal activity.
• The shared outcomes for this initiative are as follows:
• Canadians and law enforcement benefit from easier access to and improved delivery of firearms regulatory services;
• Reduce illegal firearm-related activities; and
• Canadian communities are safe from firearm–related crime.

Firearms investments

• The government has invested over $1.4 billion since 2016 in measures to reduce gun violence.
• In 2018, $356.1 million over five years was allocated for the ITAAGGV. In 2023, the initiative was renewed for an additional five years through 2028. The majority of funds are allocated to provinces and territories (P/T) under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund (GGVAF) to combat gun and gang violence in communities across Canada.
• Launched in March 2022, the $250 million initiative seeks to counter social conditions that may lead to criminality by bolstering gang prevention programming through direct funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities. The program sunsets in March 2026. As of May 2024, 85 contribution agreements have been signed (including the one with the Province of Québec as per M-30 legislation).
• In 2021, an investment of $312 million over five years, starting in 2021–22, and $41.4 million ongoing was made to Enhance Canada's Firearm Control Framework across PS, CBSA and RCMP Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) to support legislative, regulatory, and policy development, strengthen services to support the lawful acquisition, ownership and use of firearms by enhancing services to Canadians and law enforcement,increase capacity to trace crime guns and target firearms smuggling and trafficking; and enhance firearms policy advice and promote awareness of firearms programs.
• Building on Budget 2021 investments, the Government invested an additional $3.4 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $1.5 million ongoing to support the implementation of former Bill C-21, including a red flag awareness campaign.
• In 2024, as part of the Government Response to the Mass Casualty Commission's Final Report, the Government announced an investment of $22.5 million over five years and $3.3 million ongoing, starting 2024-25 to PS to increase public awareness, enhance firearms data collection and strengthen firearms regulations. Additionally, in 2024, an investment of $7.4 million over five years, starting in 2024-25 to the RCMP to modernize the CFP's telephone and case management systems.

Cross-Border smuggling

• On February 23, 2021, the Roadmap for a Renewed U.S.-Canada Partnership was unveiled, forming the Cross-Border Firearms Task Force (CBFTF), co-led by CBSA, RCMP, the American Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States' Immigration and Customs Enforcement under Homeland Security Investigations (ICE/HIS).
• The task force aims to identify primary sources of illicit firearms and disrupt their flow across the shared border.

Implementation of Former Bill C-21

• Former Bill C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms), received Royal Assent on December 15, 2023.
• The Bill enshrined in legislation the national freeze on handguns, which took effect via regulation in October 2022. The vast majority of individuals can no longer buy, sell, or import handguns into Canada.
• Maximum penalties for gun trafficking have increased from 10 to 14 years, and new authorities to combat firearms smuggling and related offences have been created.
• The Bill also introduced measures to address the growing threat of illegally manufactured firearms or "ghost guns", with new computer data offences targeting illegal manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing) and trafficking of "ghost guns", new licence requirements for certain firearms parts, and illegally made firearms now classified as prohibited.
• The Bill also introduced new "red flag" laws, which allow anyone to apply to a court for an order to temporarily remove or remove access to firearms for up to 30 days when a person may be a danger to themself or others.
• The Bill also introduced enhanced licence revocation and ineligibility measures. An individual is ineligible to hold a licence if they have been convicted of an offence in which violence was used, threatened or attempted against their intimate partner or any member of their family or are subject to a protection order. And a licence will be revoked if the holder is subject to a protection order and must be revoked if a Chief Firearms Officer suspects the licence holder may have engaged in domestic violence.
• With one exception, all measures introduced in former Bill C-21 are in force and implemented. For the new licence revocation and ineligibility provisions to be fully operative, the term protection order must be defined in regulation and remaining provisions brought into force.

Assault Style Firearms Compensation Program

Key messages

• We cannot be tough on crime without looking carefully at what firearms are suitable for civilian use in Canada.
• We know that too many Canadians have been affected by acts of gun violence in communities across our country. That is why our government has adopted a multi-tiered approach to reducing gun violence.
• This includes, investing in policing, border enforcement, and community gang prevention strategies, and creating new tools to reduce harm in at-risk situations such as intimate partner violence.
• The Government has also prohibited over 2,500 makes and models of assault-style firearms, including those used in Canada's mass shootings. These firearms are capable of sustained rapid-fire and not suitable for hunting or sport shooting and exceed safe civilian use.
• We are taking action to keep Canadians safe by removing these assault-style firearms from our communities through the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program. The Program was launched for firearm businesses in December 2024 and is providing fair compensation for turning-in their banned firearms for destruction.
• Individual firearm owners will be able to participate in the Program later this year.

If pressed

Q1 - When will this program be in full operation? Will it cover all the guns that have been prohibited?

The program launched for licensed firearms businesses in December 2024 and has been successful. Work is well advanced to open the program to individual firearms owners. We have taken the time needed to get it right, and are committed to opening this phase of the program in the near future. We will be sharing more information on how to participate and which firearms are eligible for compensation in the near future.

Q2 - How many guns have been collected under this program?

The Business Phase of this program has been successful with more than 12,000 Assault Style Firearms claimed for compensation, and over 9,600 of those have already been destroyed.

Q3 - How much is this program going to cost?

We are committed to this program being as cost-effective and efficient as possible, but cannot put a price on public safety. As we move ahead with launching the Individuals Phase of the program, we will have more information to share on the total costs.

Q4 - The Liberal platform "Canada Strong" released on April 19 2025 was to "Continue to implement an efficient gun buyback program for assault-style firearm." What efficiencies are involved, and how will you save money?

We remain committed to this program being as cost-effective and efficient as possible. The goal remains to promote public safety by safely and securely removing assault-style firearms from our communities.

Q5 - How can you launch a national program when Alberta and Saskatchewan oppose it?

As we move ahead with the program for individuals across Canada, we continue to extend the invitation for both provinces to participate so their impacted gun owners can receive fair compensation while coming into compliance with the law.

Q6 - Will delivering this program have an impact on frontline policing?

The work required by the different police jurisdictions across Canada to implement the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program for individual firearms owners cannot, and will not compromise the crucial work that front-line police undertake to keep our communities safe everyday.

Background

Description

On May 1, 2020, the Government of Canada banned 1,500 assault-style firearms and variants as part of its comprehensive strategy to tackle gun violence in Canada. Today, more than 2,500 makes and models have been banned. As part of this strategy, the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP) will provide fair compensation for eligible businesses and individuals who possess these prohibited firearms and devices and participate in the program.

Source of funds

• ASFCP (individual): A 2024 Off-Cycle Decision provided $489.5M over 3 years, starting in 2024-25. This funding is sunsetting in 2026-27.
• ASFCP: Budget 2023, Budget 2024 and 2023 Fall Economic Statement provided $49.9M over 2 years (2024-25 to 2025-26) and $1.2M over 6 additional years (2026-27 to 2031-32).

Safer Communities Initiative

Key messages

• Communities across Canada are facing an increase in hate crimes and growing concerns about public safety, which is straining social cohesion and increasing feelings of insecurity.
• The Safer Communities Initiative includes the National Crime Prevention Strategy, which takes a holistic approach–integrating prevention, protection and empowerment–to build stronger, more resilient communities. The Strategy includes four programs:
• The Crime Prevention Action Fund and the Youth Gang Prevention Fund focus on early intervention, providing evidence-based support to help vulnerable youth avoid crime and gang membership.
• The Canada Community Security Program enhances the safety of not-for-profit organizations at risk of hate crimes by funding security enhancements to community gathering spaces.
• The Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund supports community-based crime prevention initiatives that are culturally relevant and responsive to the unique needs of Indigenous and Northern communities.
• As part of Canada's federal Gender-based Violence Strategy, funding also supports community-based projects, research, and an awareness campaign to combat bullying and cyberbullying. This helps to create safer environments for women, girls, and gender-diverse people.
• By funding these initiatives, Canada is strengthening its commitment to a safer and more equitable society where everyone, regardless of background, can live without fear and can thrive in a supportive environment.

Background

Description

Contributions in support of the Safer Communities Initiative include:

• Crime Prevention Action Fund: This funding supports evidence-based crime prevention initiatives in communities that address the risk and protective factors associated with crime among vulnerable groups of the population, particularly children and youth aged 6 to 30 years.
• Canada Community Security Program: Funding for this program allows eligible private not-for-profit organizations at risk of hate crimes to access federal funding to improve the security of community gathering spaces.
• Youth Gang Prevention Fund: Funding is for community-based initiatives that prevent at-risk youth from joining gangs and to provide exit strategies for gang-involved youth.
• Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund: This program supports culturally sensitive projects that reduce vulnerability to crime and promote community safety approaches in Indigenous communities, both on and off-reserve, and in the North. The NICPF also builds capacity and knowledge to identify and promote Indigenous crime prevention and community safety best practices.
• Canada's Federal Gender-based Violence Prevention Strategy: Through this Strategy, funding is provided to Public Safety Canada for cyberbullying and bullying initiatives. The funding for community-based projects is provided through the Crime Prevention Action Fund.

Source of funds

Budget 2009, 2011, 2012, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023, 2024 and the 2020 Fall Economic Statement.

Community Resilience Fund

Key messages

• Canada is committed to being a global leader in countering and preventing radicalization to violent extremism, underscoring the importance of collaboration with partners to safeguard the security of Canadians.
• The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence, housed in Public Safety Canada, was established by the government in 2017 to provide national leadership on countering radicalization to violence through building expertise and capacity in Canada, including support for innovative research and community-based initiatives.
• Through the Community Resilience Fund (CRF) grants and contributions program, the Canada Centre supports a wide range of prevention and intervention efforts that address all forms of violent extremism, from ideologically motivated violence to hate-fueled threats.
• This includes funding for research to better understand the threat of violent extremism, and how to prevent it. It also includes funding for frontline intervention programs operating in six provinces that work to divert people who have been identified as at-risk of radicalization to violence.
• Since 2017 the Community Resilience Fund has supported 81 projects totaling $85 million. As the threat of violent extremism has grown, so has demand for support. The last open call for projects was in 2022 and we receive 130 applications totaling $170 million.
• We have been able to take on a few more projects by reallocating funds from other community safety funding programs. For example, in March 2025 at the National Forum on Countering Antisemitism the government announced up to $10 million in new, immediate funding through the Community Resilience Fund to help address all forms of hate including antisemitism.

Background

Description

Established in 2017, the Community Resilience Fund (CRF) provides financial support to organizations working to improve Canada's understanding and capacity to prevent and counter violent extremism. The CRF is co-managed by the Canada Centre for Community Engagement & Prevention of Violence and by Public Safety's Programs Branch. Supporting partnerships and innovation is key to countering radicalization to violence in Canada.

Source of funds

• Budget 2016 announced funding of $35.0M over five years, starting in 2016-17, and $10.0M ongoing for the creation of the Canada Centre.
• Budget 2024 provided an additional $10.5 million over three years ($3.5 million annually), starting in 2024-25 for the CRF. Treasury Board approved using some of the funding for administration, leaving about $2.7M for additional grants and contributions.

National Voluntary Organizations

Key messages

• The program funds National Voluntary Organizations (NVO) to strengthen their capacity to contribute to criminal justice policy development and deliver essential community-based services in the area of corrections, conditional release, and/or community reintegration.
• Funded organizations also enhance community capacity to support victims, offenders, and families.
• NVOs play a key role in national policy dialogue, public education, and professional development in the criminal justice sector.
• The program contributes to safer communities by supporting rehabilitation, reintegration, and crime prevention efforts, particularly in at-risk populations.

Background

Description

The Program provides funding to National Voluntary Organizations (NVO) who are active in the area of corrections, conditional release and/or community reintegration.

Source of funds

As announced in Budget 2021 this funding would reduce application fees, create an online application portal, and support community organizations that help people navigate the pardon application process.

Funding for First Nation and Inuit Policing Facilities

Key messages

• Everyone in Canada should feel safe in their community.
• The Government of Canada is committed to working with First Nations and Inuit partners, provinces and territories, and with self-administered police services to support the delivery of culturally-responsive policing in First Nations and Inuit communities.
• Budget 2024 committed $200 million over five years, to repair, renovate and replace policing facilities in First Nations and Inuit communities.
• These investments are helping to stabilize the funding support for First Nations and Inuit police services, which is cost-shared with provinces and territories.
• The Government of Canada continues to work with provinces/territories and Indigenous partners to roll out these investments.

If pressed

Q1 – Program spending

• The Government invested $14.4M in cost-shared funding to repair, renovate and replace policing facilities in First Nations and Inuit communities through the First Nations and Inuit Policing Facilities Program in 2024-25.
• Program spending continues to be slower than anticipated with many approved projects facing implementation delays due to labour shortages and the higher costs of construction materials. Public Safety Canada is working actively with Indigenous partners and with provincial and territorial partners to adjust project implementation plans, and associated budgets, as needed.
• Any funds not spent as planned in a given fiscal year will be the subject of a proposed reprofile to a future fiscal year.

Q2 – If pressed on year to year variance between 2024-25 Main estimates and 2025-26 Main estimates

• Public Safety Canada is currently working with the Treasury Board Secretariat to configure the FNIPFP program budget for Budget 2024's investments and proposed reprofiled funds.
• 2025-26 funding is subject to change on this basis.

Background

Description

Public Safety Canada funds the First Nations and Inuit Policing Facilities Program (FNIPFP) to support better policing infrastructure for the people who live and work in Indigenous communities. These investments will support First Nation and Inuit communities to ensure their policing infrastructure meets building, policing facility, and health and safety standards.

The program is cost-shared 52%-48% with the provinces and territories and will provide funding to repair, renovate, or replace policing facilities owned by First Nation and Inuit communities.

Source of funds

Budget 2024 committed $200 million over five years, to repair, renovate and replace policing facilities in First Nations and Inuit communities.

Payments for the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program

Key messages

• Everyone in Canada should feel safe in their community.
• The Government of Canada is committed to working with First Nations and Inuit partners, provinces and territories, and with self-administered police services to support the delivery of culturally-responsive policing in First Nations and Inuit communities.
• Budget 2024 committed $267.5 million over five years, and $92.5 million per year ongoing, for the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program.
• These investments are helping to stabilize the funding support for First Nations and Inuit police services, which is cost-shared with provinces and territories.
• The Government of Canada continues to work with provinces/territories and Indigenous partners to roll out these investments.

If pressed

Q1 – Program spending

• The Government invested $334M in culturally-responsive policing through the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program in 2024-25.
• In 2024-25, Public Safety Canada worked actively with the RCMP and provinces and territories to effectively manage available program resources. These efforts resulted in only $12.5M of available funds not being invested as planned–a major improvement over previous fiscal years.
• Public Safety Canada will continue this collaboration to maximize cost-shared policing investments in First Nations and Inuit communities in fiscal year 2025-26 and beyond.

Q2 – Litigation

• In response to First Nations' calls for change through legal challenges and human rights complaints, Public Safety Canada is committed to investing in the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program as well as to updating the terms and conditions of the program to respond to the operational requirements of modern-day police services.
• More than $467 million was committed through Budget 2024 to support self-administered policing in First Nations and Inuit communities.
• Public Safety Canada is committed to continuing to work in partnership with First Nations and Inuit communities alongside provincial and territorial governments of jurisdiction so that First Nations and Inuit police services are financially supported to be professional, dedicated and culturally responsive to the communities they serve.

Q3 – Office of the Auditor General of Canada's report 3–First Nations and Inuit Policing Program

• The Government of Canada welcomes this audit report.
• The audit findings are informing Public Safety's ongoing partnership with provinces and territories, law enforcement agencies (including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and First Nations and Inuit communities, to strengthen the strategic focus and measurable impact of First Nations and Inuit Policing Program initiatives.
• The Government of Canada recognizes that it needs to do better. The recommendations came at a fitting time, as Public Safety Canada has been exploring ways to improve the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program in collaboration with provinces and territories, and First Nations and Inuit communities.
• We have engaged with key partners to develop a path forward and to develop a detailed action plan that addresses the recommendations outlined in the audit.

Q4 – Legislation recognizing First Nation Police Services as essential

• The Government of Canada is committed to working with First Nations and Inuit partners, provinces and territories, and police services to support culturally-responsive self-administered police service delivery in First Nations and Inuit communities. I want to acknowledge their leadership in advancing this work.
• A lot of effort went into co-developing legislation that would recognize First Nations police services as essential services. I am committed to connecting with First Nations leadership, police services, and provinces and territories to determine the best way forward to continue to support these services.

Q5 - RCMP Community Engagement and Trust Building

• It is important that people in Canada have trust and confidence in those who serve and protect them.
• The RCMP is committed to building trusting relationships with Indigenous people, communities, organizations, and governments across Canada. Supporting the safety and well-being of Indigenous communities is a priority, and efforts to enhance service delivery, trauma-informed investigative standards and advance reconciliation are underway.
• The RCMP is working with Indigenous communities and Divisions to create distinctions-based and uniquely specific Community Profiles that facilitate community input regarding their culture, language, or traditions, to improve police service delivery.
• The RCMP is engaging with national, regional and local First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders to formalize working relationships to strengthen information sharing, and how they work together with Indigenous governments, partners and organizations.

Q6 – RCMP Vacancies and Response Times in Indigenous Communities

• The RCMP will continue taking numerous steps to increase recruitment and retention of Regular Members and to reinforce its position as a desired choice for new police officers within Canada.
• The RCMP is offering expedited processing to applicants interested in working in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, as well as northern parts of provinces and the territories. The RCMP is also asking Regular Members and active reservists to consider a temporary deployment in Saskatchewan or Manitoba.
• The RCMP has also introduced an initiative whereby new and current Regular Members can agree to be posted to a specific Division where there are staffing shortages for a defined period (e.g. a three-year posting), with the understanding that the Regular Member will go to a preferred Division once they have completed their tenure in their current posting.

Background

Description

FNIPP is a contribution program that enables the Government of Canada to support culturally-appropriate and responsive policing and community safety services in over 400 First Nation and Inuit communities, representing 60% of all First Nation and Inuit communities in Canada. FNIPP policing agreements are cost-shared between the federal government (52%) and the Provinces/Territories (PT) (48%).

Source of funds

Budget 2024 committed $267.5 million over five years, and $92.5 million per year ongoing, for the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program.

Aboriginal Community Safety Development Contribution Program

Key messages

• The over-representation of Indigenous Peoples in the criminal justice system—both as victims and offenders—is a long-standing and deeply concerning reality that must be addressed through sustained, meaningful action.
• The Government of Canada is committed to enhancing Indigenous community safety through a range of initiatives, including the Aboriginal Community Safety Development Contribution Program (ACSDCP), which includes two key components:
  • The Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI) supports Indigenous communities in identifying their unique safety and wellness priorities. It helps them develop Community Safety Plans (CSPs) that reflect local needs, values, and strengths. As of May 2025, 95 Indigenous communities have completed a CSP.
  • The Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI), which was renewed in 2023, will provide funding to up to 27 organizations identified to deliver community-based, culturally relevant alternatives to incarceration and reintegration supports for Indigenous offenders. These initiatives will aim to reduce the over-representation of Indigenous Peoples in the criminal justice system by promoting healing, accountability, and community-led solutions.
• By supporting Indigenous-led safety planning and justice initiatives, Canada is taking important steps toward reconciliation, healing, and justice. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to restoring trust, empowering communities, and building a more equitable and culturally respectful justice system for all.

Background

Description

This program provides contributions to Indigenous organizations (on and off-reserve), Indigenous governments and municipalities in collaboration with Indigenous organizations and or communities to develop tailored approaches to community safety that are responsive to the concerns, priorities and unique circumstances of Indigenous communities. The ACSDCP includes two initiatives:

• Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI); and
• The Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI).

Source of funds

Budget 2021 and an 2022 Off-Cycle Decision

Parliamentary District Policing Program

Key messages

• The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is the police of jurisdiction in the nation's capital and responds to hundreds of demonstrations and events each year. A majority of these events occur primarily within or around the vicinity of the Parliamentary Precinct.
• The security of the Parliamentary Precinct and nearby area, as well as the safety of those who work and live in the area, elected officials, public servants, and visitors, is essential.
• As announced on March 7, 2025, the Parliamentary District Policing Program will support the OPS in establishing a new detachment to facilitate real-time response to emerging situations unique to this area.
• This stable presence in the new OPS Parliamentary District comes at a critical time when elected officials and citizens are experiencing an emerging threat environment marked by rising political polarization and an increase in violent rhetoric and harassment.
• The new program will also assist the OPS in strengthening existing partnerships with key stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Protective Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, so they can better meet their collective goal of maintaining public safety.

If pressed

Q1 - Why did the Government create the Parliamentary District Policing Program (PDPP)?

The establishment of the PDPP responds to recommendations from the Public Order Emergency Commission's Report of the Public Inquiry Into the 2022 Public Order Emergency, which pointed to the need to reconsider the division of responsibilities for policing and security in the National Capital Region.

Q2 - What is the objective of the PDPP?

The overall objective of the new program is to enhance safety and security of the Parliamentary District, and is meant to support the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) in establishing a dedicated policing presence around Parliament Hill to help keep elected officials, visitors, and residents safe.

Q3 - What is the geographic footprint of the new OPS District?

Currently, the Parliamentary District covers the area bordered by the Ottawa River, Lyon St, Queen St and Elgin St, and the area surrounding the Senate building at 2 Rideau St.

Q4 – When will the OPS's Parliamentary District be fully staffed?

According to an OPS report submitted to the Ottawa Police Service Board in late-March 2025, it is our understanding that the OPS is aiming to have a full component (40 sworn members and nine civilian positions), by the last quarter of 2026.

Background

Description

The Parliamentary District Policing Program will support the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) in establishing a new detachment to facilitate real-time response to emerging situations unique to this area. The new program will also assist the OPS in strengthening existing partnerships with key stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Protective Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, so they can better meet their collective goal of maintaining public safety.

Source of funds

Budget 2024 allocated $50 million over five years to bolster the OPS's presence within and around the Parliamentary Precinct.

Major International Event Security Cost Framework

Key messages

• Canada hosts high-profile international events that require robust, coordinated security operations, led by the RCMP and supported by provincial, territorial, and municipal partners.
• The Major International Event Security Cost Framework (the Framework) ensures effective collaboration by reimbursing partners for extraordinary, justifiable, and reasonable policing and security-related costs.
• This contribution program supports the safe and secure delivery of international events, protecting visiting dignitaries, Canadian citizens, and host communities.
• For fiscal year 2025-26, the main focus will be on the Canadian G7 presidency, including the Summit that will be held in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15 to 17, as well as Ministerial meetings.
• Public Safety Canada (PS) has been working closely with the RCMP and its security partners, including the Province of Alberta and Calgary Police Service, to advance the necessary work that will allow the eventual reimbursement of eligible expenses.
• PS will be equally prepared to work again with RCMP and other jurisdictional partners, as appropriate, should additional major international events designated as such under the Framework be held later on this fiscal year.

Background

Description

The Major International Event Security Cost Framework is a contribution program that reimburses local partners for security costs during RCMP-led operations at major international events hosted in Canada.

Source of funds

A 2024 Off-Cycle Decision provided funding to cover security costs associated to the 2025 G7 Presidency.

Program to Combat Child Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking

Key messages

• The Government of Canada is firmly committed to protect children from sexual exploitation and to combat human trafficking.
• As part of this commitment, Public Safety Canada provides funding to the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P). through the National Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Exploitation on the Internet.
• Please note that the actual name of the program under which this initiative and many others, including those tied with combatting human trafficking, are delivered is "Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime". My apologies for this unfortunate mislabeling issue.

Background

Description

Provides funding to the Canada Centre for Child Protection (C3P), a charitable organization dedicated to reducing child victimization by providing national programs and services to the public.

Please note that the content of this note was incorrectly titled due to an administrative error. Furthermore, its content should have been included from the onset with the Financial Note dedicated

to the omnibus program named "Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime". This program serves as basis to support a number of initiatives to combat child sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and auto theft, amongst others.

Source of funds

Budget 2009 and Budget 2010.

Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program

Key messages

• The Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program (BCACP) provides funding to Ontario and Quebec to support forensic DNA analysis in criminal investigations, encouraging the submission of DNA profiles to the National DNA Data Bank (NDDB).
• The program enhances public safety and justice efficiency by helping identify offenders more quickly, reducing investigation and prosecution costs, and preventing wrongful convictions.
• It supports increased lab capacity, reduced turnaround times and backlogs, and a higher volume of DNA profiles submitted to the Crime Scene Index.
• The BCACP aligns with federal priorities by promoting a sustainable, national DNA analysis framework and contributing to the Serious and Organized Crime program.
• Ultimately, the program helps ensure that Canadian communities are safer through more effective and timely criminal investigations and prosecutions.

Background

Description

The Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program (BCACP) provides financial contributions to the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, which have established independent forensic laboratories for the purpose of conducting biology casework analysis, including DNA identification analysis, in support of criminal investigations and prosecutions. The purpose of these contributions is to encourage provincial contribution of DNA profiles to the Crime Scene Index in the National DNA Data Bank.

Source of funds

• Budget 2022 provide funding of $28.8 million over five years, and $5.9 million ongoing, starting in 2022-23 to Public Safety in support of enhancing the Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program.
• The 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot announced $34.5 million over five years, starting in 2020-21, and $6.9 million ongoing.

Core responsibility: National Security

Key messages

• Canada's national security threat landscape is evolving rapidly and Public Safety Canada is investing in coordinated, transparent, and forward-looking initiatives to protect Canadians, strengthen institutional trust, and ensure our systems are resilient and responsive to emerging challenges.
• We are enhancing our ability to detect and respond to foreign interference. This includes supporting the Office of the National Counter-Foreign Interference Coordinator, launching the Foreign Influence Transparency Commissioner's Office, and leading whole-of-government coordination to ensure accountability and resilience.
• To address the evolving terrorism landscape, we are developing a new Counter-Terrorism Strategy, reviewing listed terrorist entities, and contributing to a broader National Security Strategy. These efforts will ensure a transparent, coordinated, and effective response to threats, while maintaining public confidence and supporting international cooperation.
• We are strengthening Canada's defenses against economic-based threats, including foreign investment risks and economic espionage. Through updates to the Investment Canada Act and collaboration with provinces, territories, and G7 partners, we are ensuring Canada remains a secure and competitive environment for innovation and investment.
• We are prioritizing the protection of Canada's critical cyber and physical infrastructure. By working with federal and international partners, we are enhancing our ability to identify, safeguard, and respond to sophisticated threats—ensuring continuity of essential services and public trust in a digital world.

Background

Results we plan to achieve

The national security threat landscape in Canada is constantly evolving. Criminal organizations and state sponsored actors target government agencies, critical physical and cyber infrastructure and private sector companies to gain access to sensitive information and disrupt trust in the institutions Canadians rely on each and every day.

In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will undertake initiatives aimed at enhancing Canada's awareness of, and ability to respond to, the evolving national security threat landscape. These efforts will collectively serve to ensure that all members of Canadian society are equipped with the awareness, knowledge, and tools to respond to threats where they present themselves, and ensure that the right national mechanisms are in place to prevent and address them. To enhance transparency in the national security space, the Department will also proactively engage with the Canadian public, where possible.

Foreign Interference

Foreign Interference (FI) is a dynamic threat that includes any effort by foreign states, and/or their proxies, to undermine Canada's national interests, economic prosperity and values, or threaten public safety and the exercise of fundamental democratic rights and freedoms. In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will focus its efforts on key actions to improve awareness, understanding, and ability of the Government of Canada to detect and respond to threats posed by FI in all of its forms. These efforts will be delivered in support of the Office of the National Counter-Foreign Interference Coordinator (ONCFIC), including leading whole-of-government coordination and engagement with domestic and international partners; and public outreach to increase awareness of FI threats and actions to address them. The ONCFIC will be responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of counter-FI engagements and its associated activities, among other efforts.

Further, Public Safety Canada is a key contributor in the Government of Canada's interdepartmental efforts to combat foreign interference. We will support the implementation of the Foreign Influence Transparency Commissioner's Office, an independent body that will be housed within the Department, and which will be responsible for ensuring transparency in arrangements between foreign principles and activities aimed at influencing political or government processes in Canada.

Counter Terrorism and Violent Extremism

The Department will undertake a number of legislative and engagement activities to address the evolving terrorism threat landscape. This includes preparing a Counter-Terrorism Strategy, reviewing and updating the entities currently listed under the Criminal Code and Secure Air Travel Act, and contributing to the development of a National Security Strategy. Taken together, these efforts will ensure that the Department is well-positioned to identify and address terrorist and violent extremist threats, and that the Government of Canada is well-equipped to deliver a coordinated response while maintaining transparency and public trust.

Public Safety Canada will also continue leading the administration of the Criminal Code Authorization Regime, in coordination with partnering departments and agencies across the Government of Canada, to facilitate the delivery of specified international assistance activities in geographic areas controlled by a terrorist group.

Countering economic-based threats to National Security

In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will advance efforts to address economic-based threats to national security through sustained policy development, while fostering a favourable environment for growth and innovation. The Department will maintain its leadership in evaluating foreign investments, particularly under Bill C-34's updated national security provisions of the Investment Canada Act. This will involve close collaboration with key investigative bodies within the Government of Canada to strengthen protections against risks associated with foreign influence and economic espionage.

Public Safety Canada will also maintain an active role in collaborating with provinces and territories through a dedicated community of practice and engage with provincial and territorial partners to enhance collective responses to these complex economic threats. Building on prior efforts, the Department will coordinate with other federal entities to address cross-cutting economic security challenges and adapt relevant policies accordingly. Additionally, in partnership with G7 nations and other allies, Public Safety Canada will promote international collaboration on these issues, enhancing Canada's security posture amid evolving global economic risks.

Cyber Security and Critical Infrastructure

Enhancing the security and resilience of Canada's cyber and physical infrastructure is another priority for 2025 to 2026. In the face of emerging and rapidly evolving threats to Canada's national security, the Department is considering approaches to prioritize the most important critical infrastructure Canadians depend on, working in collaboration with other federal departments and agencies. Further, the Department will participate in domestic and international engagement efforts, to improve coordination within Canada and among allies.

Cyber Security Cooperation Program

Key messages

• As Canada builds a clean economy for the future, our reliance on secure, resilient systems will only grow—to protect Canadians, our businesses, critical infrastructure, and our democracy.
• That's why the Cyber Security Cooperation Program (CSCP) is so vital: it strengthens our national cyber resilience by funding projects that enhance our ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats across both public and private sectors.
• At the same time, we must stay ahead of the curve through innovation. The program supports advanced research and development, helping Canada remain competitive in the global digital economy. It also fosters the development of new tools and skills, ensuring we are prepared for the challenges posed by emerging technologies.
• Cyber security is not a federal responsibility alone. The CSCP plays a vital role in promoting national collaboration—bringing together governments, industry, academia, and civil society. This coordinated approach strengthens our collective capacity to address cyber risks and share best practices.
• We also recognize the importance of public awareness and threat reporting. The program supports initiatives that inform Canadians about cyber threats and help close critical gaps in national cyber security reporting, which is essential for evidence-based decision-making.
• Finally, the CSCP directly supports the goals of Canada's National Cyber Security Strategy. It helps us address evolving threats, unlock economic opportunities, and ensure that Canadian values and interests are protected in the digital age.
• In short, this program is a smart, forward-looking investment in Canada's security, prosperity, and digital leadership

If pressed

Q1 - Question on Canada's National Cyber Security Strategy

• Following extensive community consultations with Canadians, we released a new National Cyber Security Strategy in February 2025. At its core, the new Strategy is about whole-of-society engagement and collaboration. We will increase our partnerships with all levels of government, industry, Indigenous communities, academia and out international allies to strengthen our collective resilience to cyber threats.
• Also at its core is an agile approach to cyber security solutions. The Strategy will be implemented, in close collaboration with partners and stakeholders, through issue-specific action plans over the coming years. This will enable Canada to be at the forefront of innovative approaches to cyber security risks and opportunities.
• Under the Strategy, we will implement the Cyber Security Cooperation Program, to fund cyber security projects through grants and contributions across Canada that that will underpin our security, prosperity, and digital leadership.
• We will also establish the Canadian Cyber Defence Collective, to advance Canada's cyber resilience through direct public-private partnership on national-level cyber security challenges, policy priorities, and defence efforts. We will actively leverage the CCDC to regularly engage stakeholders in the development of action plans to ensure the most current insights and experiences are informing future policy and program action.

Q2 – Question on the reintroduction of former Bill C-26, An Act Respecting Cyber Security

• An Act Respecting Cyber Security (formerly introduced as Bill C-26) was a bill with two distinct legislative initiatives intended to protect federally-regulated critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
• Part 1 proposed to amend the Telecommunications Act to add security as a policy objective and provide order-making powers to the Minister of Industry and Governor in Council, while Part 2 would have introduced the Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act with the goal of establishing a regulatory framework to strengthen baseline cyber security across federally-regulated critical infrastructure sectors.
• The proposed legislation, which received near-unanimous approval in both the House and the Senate, had advanced to the final stages of the Parliamentary process before it died on the Order Paper due to prorogation while awaiting concurrence from the House of Commons on an administrative amendment made in the Senate.
• By introducing legislation establishing a cyber security framework for key federally regulated entities and centralizing cybercrime and cyber incident reporting, Canada will significantly enhance the cyber security of the federally-regulated critical infrastructure upon which Canadians rely, impacting our national and economic security, and ensure criminals are held accountable.
• Importantly, it also ensures that Canada does not fall further behind its like-minded allies who have experienced the same push to introduce and revise legislative measures to address cyber security.

Q3 – Question on the Detection and Reporting of Cybercrime

• The government is working with stakeholders to make it easier for the public and business to report cybercrime to ensure crimes reported are actioned properly.
• The RCMP's National Cybercrime Coordination Centre and Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre are jointly responsible for national cybercrime and fraud reporting in Canada, by both victims and victimized organizations with a nexus to Canada.
• These two Centres are developing a new National Cybercrime and Fraud Reporting System to improve and streamline cybercrime and fraud reporting, enhance technical capabilities of these Centres, and support Canadian law enforcement to action victim reporting of cybercrime and fraud.
• By improving and centralizing reporting, the RCMP can further aggregate, analyze, and improve information sharing with law enforcement and security partners to support prevention, deconfliction, and investigative efforts.
• Any individual who has been a victim of cybercrime, fraud or scams, should contact their local police and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Q4 – Question on Specific incidents – [If applicable]

• We are aware of the {Insert type of incident, city, province} and we are closely monitoring the situation.
• The federal cyber community meets regularly to discuss potential and ongoing incidents to coordinate the federal response. To this end, the Federal Cyber Incident Response Plan, for incidents affecting non-Government of Canada systems, and the Government of Canada Cyber Security Event Management Plan, for incidents affecting Government of Canada systems, are escalated as needed according to the severity of the incident.
• The Government Operations Centre determines what type of federal assistance may be required by provinces and territories and the critical infrastructure providers to deal with serious situations.
• First responders and provincial officials are responsible for addressing the immediate needs of citizens in affected areas.
• [if applicable] As the situation is evolving rapidly, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further.

Q5 – Question on holding cybercriminals responsible

• The RCMP Federal Policing Cybercrime Program investigates the highest levels of cyber-related criminal activity and threats to national security.
• This includes cybercrime directed against institutions of government, critical infrastructure of national importance, and key Canadian institutions and business assets.
• The RCMP has a broad mandate to combat cybercrime domestically and internationally, and deploys various enforcement measures to enable arrests, charges, and other disruption outcomes (e.g., actions to neutralize the threat, minimize victimization, and hold cybercriminals to account where possible). 

Background

Description

Public Safety Canada is working to build a safe and resilient Canada through the Cyber Security Cooperation Program (CSCP). Funding under the CSCP supports projects that contribute to security and prosperity in the digital age while positioning Canada as a global leader in cyber security.

Source of funds

An off-cycle funding decision provided new funding of $14.0M over 5 years, starting in 2025-26, to enhance the CSCP.

Core responsibility: Emergency Management

Key messages

• The frequency and intensity of disasters are increasing, and climate change is only accelerating this trend. These events are not only more destructive, but also more costly for Canadians. That's why Public Safety Canada is advancing a comprehensive set of initiatives in 2025–2026 to strengthen Canada's ability to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from all-hazards emergencies.
• We are enhancing readiness at both the institutional and individual levels. This includes launching a national flood risk awareness portal to help Canadians understand local risks and continuing to modernize emergency management systems. The Federal Emergency Response Plan is being transformed into a broader Federal Emergency Response and Preparedness Framework, clarifying ministerial responsibilities under the Emergency Management Act.
• We are working with all levels of government to reduce disaster impacts before they occur. This includes advancing the Federal Government Continuity Strategy (2025–2029), supporting flood hazard mapping, and identifying high-risk flood areas to inform future policy. We are also renewing the 2019 Emergency Management Strategy to reflect today's evolving risks and reaffirm national commitments to disaster resilience.
• We are strengthening Canada's ability to respond and recover effectively. This includes supporting NGOs through the Humanitarian Workforce program, building a pan-Canadian civilian response capacity, and developing a national flood insurance program. The new Centre of Recovery Excellence will enhance recovery expertise and modernize Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.

Background

Results we plan to achieve

The frequency and intensity of disasters, both natural and man-made, are on the rise, exacerbated by the effects of climate change. These disasters are also giving rise to increased costs for Canadians recovering from these incidents. This rise underscores the importance of ensuring that Canadians are prepared to identify and respond to risks, that community response and recovery efforts are as effective as possible while also enhancing prevention and mitigation efforts in support of holistic disaster resilience nation-wide.

In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will advance a number of initiatives that will strengthen Canada's resilience to effectively mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from all-hazards emergencies.

Emergency Preparedness

Public Safety Canada efforts under the Emergency Preparedness program will focus on enhancing institutional and individual preparedness to respond to emergencies. Promoting individual preparedness will include the continued development and launch of the national flood risk awareness portal, which will serve as a centralized source of public information about relative neighborhood flood risks.

The multi-hazard environment and frequency and severity of emergencies continues to underline the importance of whole-of-society and coordinated response across the Government of Canada, provinces, territories, local authorities, and Indigenous communities. The Department will continue its emergency management modernization efforts, including converting the Federal Emergency Response Plan to a Federal Emergency Response and Preparedness Framework which defines the core Ministerial responsibilities under the Emergency Management Act.

At the same time, Public Safety Canada, via the Government Operations Centre (GOC), will continue to develop and deliver national exercises for events impacting the national interest, including the G7 integrated exercise program, to examine, test and validate safety, security and operational arrangements in support of the G7 Leaders' Summit in Spring 2025. The GOC will also publish the Emergency Management Planning Process guide for its Federal partners as well as update the Strategic Emergency Management Planning guide to provide a common and structured approach to Emergency Management Preparedness activities across federal partners.

Building a safe and reliable public alerting system in Canada is a responsibility shared by all levels of government and industry partners. Building off of the February 2024 Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers discussions, Public Safety Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to strengthen the sustainability and governance of this system. This work will consider the recommendations of the Mass Casualty Commission related to public alerting.

Emergency Prevention/Mitigation

Public Safety Canada will advance prevention and mitigation of emergencies in collaboration with federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal partners and other stakeholders. Key to mitigating potential negative impacts to Canadians is to ensure that critical government services remain available, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. Through the Federal Government Continuity Strategy 2025-2029, the Centre for Resiliency and Continuity Management will provide industry-leading Business Continuity Management (BCM) expertise and methodologies to the federal BCM community, continuing its strategic efforts to enhance the capacity of federal organizations to maintain critical service delivery to Canadians and ensure the effective functioning of government operations.

The Department will also continue to support Natural Resources Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada to advance the Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP) under the National Adaptation Strategy. The FHIMP will ensure that stakeholders have necessary knowledge of flood hazard information for decision-making. The Department will also develop the Federally Identified Flood Risk Areas (FIFRA), which will complement the FHIMP and, in the long term, will be used by federal partners to inform federal policy development and program administration and delivery.

Finally, the Department will also advance the renewal of the 2019 Emergency Management Strategy (EMS), to allow provincial and territorial partners to reaffirm their commitment to the foundational principles and priorities aimed at increasing whole-of-society disaster resilience by 2030. The renewal of the EMS will ensure that the strategy remains relevant in the dynamic context of changing disaster risks in Canada and reflects a common adaptation approach for all jurisdictions, and ultimately ensure that Canada effectively mitigates, prepares for, responds to, and recovers from disaster events.

Emergency Response/Recovery

Efforts under Emergency Response/Recovery will aim to provide leadership and support to partners and stakeholders to respond to all-hazard events, and ensure a coordinated approach to support rapid and effective recovery. The Department will continue to fund non-governmental organizations to increase capacity via the Supporting a Humanitarian Workforce to Respond to COVID-19 and other Large-Scale Emergencies contribution program. The Department will also continue engagement with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and other stakeholders on the advancement of a pan-Canadian civilian response capacity.

Concerning recovery and toward promoting ongoing flood resilience, engagement activities will advance the development of the flood insurance program leveraging Federal-Provincial-Territorial partnerships to ensure implicated parties are involved and appropriate jurisdictional governance is maintained. Once deployed, the flood insurance program will ensure that Canadians most heavily impacted by floods are financially supported in their recovery and resilience efforts.

Finally, in 2025 to 2026, the Department will continue to support provinces and territories in navigating and utilizing the new modernized terms and conditions for the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), and establish a Centre of Recovery Excellence (CoRE) that will increase knowledge and capacity among recovery practitioners and improve access to recovery expertise. The CoRE will support the DFAA program's overall goals to increase uptake in mitigation funding, support for people and tracking of recovery outcomes.

Assistance to Provinces and Territories related to Natural Disasters

Key messages

• For over 50 years, the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program has played a critical role in supporting provinces and territories with the costs of large-scale disasters caused by natural hazards in Canada.
• Public Safety Canada launched a modernized Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program on April 1, 2025.
• The modernized program is the culmination of over four years of extensive collaboration. Public Safety Canada continues to work closely with provinces and territories to ensure a smooth transition to the new Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.
• Our modernized Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements prioritizes greater resilience and reduced disaster risks to Canadians. It empowers provinces and territories to develop tailored solutions, increased flexible funding and expanded post-disaster supports.
• This initiative will help to reduce the long term costs and impacts of disasters on all Canadians.
• In 2025-26, main estimates funding for the DFAA is $616 million.
• Currently, there are 89 open event files with an estimated federal liability of $5 billion approved under the DFAA.

If pressed

Q1 – Why was the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements review undertaken?

• Since 1970, the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) has paid out more than $9.6 billion, with over 60% of these costs paid out in the last 10 years. The average disaster costs in Canada have also risen more than 1,250% since the creation of the program.
• In light of this rising frequency and severity of disasters in Canada, in 2021 the Minister of Emergency Preparedness was asked to undertake a comprehensive review of the DFAA and bring forward program amendments.
• The Minister also stood up an expert Advisory Panel in early 2022 to provide recommendations on how the DFAA could remain a relevant, effective and sustainable instrument for recovery, risk reduction, and resilience in the context of rising impacts of disasters.

Q2 – How were provinces and territories engaged in the modernization process?

• Provincial and territorial (PT) partners have been actively engaged throughout the DFAA modernization process, contributing to policy development, program design, and multiple rounds of feedback. In 2023, the Canadian Council of Emergency Management Organizations recognized this engagement as an excellent model of collaborative consultation. The modernized program addresses 35 of 36 PT recommendations for the DFAA from 2021. Recent endorsements from Manitoba and the Northwest Territories further highlight the positive reception of these efforts.

Q3 – If pressed on overall funding levels in the modernized Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements

• The modernized DFAA has a net increase in federal funding of approximately 3-5% per year.
• The previous program had a cost sharing range of 50-90%, with an average of 82%. The new program has a cost sharing range of 70-100%.
• The net increase in overall funding comes from the program's significant increased funding for building back better, risk reduction, and strategic mitigation. Jurisdictions that choose not to build back better or mitigate their highest risks will leave federal funding on the table that is intended to increase the resiliency for the whole of society and, over time, to reduce the costs and impacts of future disasters for all levels of government.
• Estimates show that with full uptake of mitigation and resilience funding following a disaster, a subsequent disaster could be expected to cost 65% less.

Q4 – If pressed on consulting provinces and territories on cost-sharing levels?

• Starting in spring 2023, multiple Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) meetings and two Ministerial meetings (June 2023, Jan 2024) were briefed on the "New program format based on expense type (with highest cost sharing for reducing risk and supporting vulnerable people)"; no issues were raised.
• In fall 2023, PTs were given the draft program streams, which noted reconstruction would get "medium" cost-share, while response would get "higher", supporting people and communities would get "highest", and mitigation would be "variable"; clearly indicating a minimum of 3 different cost-share levels across the program. PTs did not raise issue with this approach during the feedback period, nor during the subsequent FPT Minister's meeting in February 2024.
• PS provided the final cost-share percentages of the new program with PTs when it released the new Terms and Conditions in April 2024.

Q5 – If pressed on wildfire coverage under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements?

• The modernized DFAA covers costs for wildfires which directly threaten communities, also known as wildland urban interface fires.
• Under the modernized program, response costs; repairing, restoring and rebuilding uninsurable infrastructure (private dwellings/businesses are generally insured for fire damage); improvements to damaged infrastructure or new community or region-wide mitigation projects; and recovery supports like legal, financial, or mental health counselling can be cost shared under the DFAA to improve the resilience of communities that have suffered a disaster.
• With this new program, mitigation funding is available for any eligible disaster type under the DFAA. Therefore, a PT that suffers a disaster stemming from a natural hazard, such as a wildfire, and is eligible for DFAA funding, can use the DFAA to increase the resilience of the affected communities.

Q6 – Recent active events (One "question on" for each event)

• There are currently 89 active events under the DFAA, the most recent request for financial assistance coming from Newfoundland and Labrador.
• The province submitted a request for the storm surge in January 2025, and our government is working closely with provincial officials to promptly provide assistance to support the affected coastal communities.
• The Government of Canada is committed to working with provinces, territories and whole-of-society partners to prevent, respond to and recover from disasters.

Q7 – Jasper Recovery

• On September 19, 2024, the Province of Alberta requested financial assistance through the DFAA for costs incurred as a result of the 2024 fire disaster in Jasper.
• The estimated federal share is up to $57 million.
• In February 2025, Public Safety Canada provided the province an advance payment of $19.6 million to assist with early relief efforts and cover a portion of eligible wildfire response costs incurred.
• The Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta agreed to match donations from individual Canadians and corporations to the Canadian Red Cross (CRC) for the wildfire disaster relief and recovery efforts in the province. The CRC confirmed that $12.6 million in eligible donations were collected during the matching period, for a total of $38 million raised.

Background

Description

The Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program (DFAA) provides financial assistance to provinces and territories when response and recovery costs exceed what they could reasonably be expected to bear on their own.

Source of funds

• As noted in the Economic Fiscal Update 2021, the government has provisioned for $5 billion in 2021-22 for its share of recovery costs under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements as well as other costs related to the recent natural disasters in British Columbia.
• Budget 2021 proposes to provide $1.9 billion over five years, on a cash basis, starting in 2021–22, to Public Safety Canada to support provincial and territorial disaster response and recovery efforts. This funding is to cover existing liabilities from previous events for which PS is awaiting claims from provinces and territories. This funding does not cover the most recent disasters that have taken place in BC.
• Recognizing that recovery efforts are still underway and cost estimates are in development, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement establishes a provision of $1 billion in 2022-23 in anticipation of Hurricane Fiona-related requests from provinces under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.

Supporting a Humanitarian Workforce to respond to COVID-19 and Other Large-Scale Emergencies

Key messages

• Since 2021, the Government of Canada has provided funding through the Humanitarian Workforce program to respond to large-scale domestic emergencies.
• The program aims to build a scalable civilian workforce that can be rapidly deployed in emergencies, broadening the resources available to respond to human-induced and climate-related disasters in Canada, and reducing the reliance on the Canadian Armed Forces in disaster response.
• This funding has enabled humanitarian non-governmental organizations in Canada to build capacity to respond to all-hazard events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural disasters, such as floods and wildfires.
• The Humanitarian Workforce program has also supported the deployment of the Red Cross, The Salvation Army, St. John Ambulance, Team Rubicon, and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada in response to Requests for Federal Assistance from provinces and territories.

Background

Description

Funding in support to the Red Cross and other non-governmental organizations in building and maintaining a humanitarian work force to provide surge capacity for COVID-19 outbreaks and large-scale emergencies.

Source of funds

In a 2022 off-cycle budget decision, the Government decided to provide $108.9 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to PS to support the continuation of the humanitarian workforce, with no funding for donation matching.

Supporting the Canadian Red Cross's urgent relief efforts related to COVID-19, Floods and Wildfires

Key messages

• The Government of Canada is committed to working with provinces, territories and whole-of-society partners to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies across the country.
• Many Canadians now require ongoing general and specialized support services that are frequently delivered by the CRC.
• The Supporting the Canadian Red Cross's (CRC) Urgent Relief Efforts Related to COVID-19, Floods and Wildfires program provides targeted funding to support urgent relief efforts related to COVID-19, floods, and wildfires.
• This program helps CRC to keep Canadians safe by continuing to deliver their broad array of services to people in need.

Background

Description

The Supporting the Canadian Red Cross's (CRC) Urgent Relief Efforts Related to COVID-19, Floods and Wildfires program is a contribution program that provides funding to the Canadian Red Cross so that it may continue to respond to COVID-19 as well as to floods and wildfires which will present new and unprecedented challenges related to the pandemic context.

Source of funds

• $7.0M in funding from a 2024 Off-Cycle Decision to match donations to the Canadian Red Cross in support of the response of efforts to the 2023 Alberta wildfires.
• $14.5M in funding from a 2022 Off-Cycle Decision to match donations to the Canadian Red Cross 2021 British Columbia Flood and Wildfire Events fundraising.
• $1.0M in funding from a 2023 Off-Cycle Decision to match donations to the Canadian Red Cross in support of the response of efforts to the 2023 Nova Scotia wildfires.

International Association of Fire Fighters, Canada

Key messages

• The Contribution to the International Association of Fire Fighters, Canada (IAFF/Canada) equips Canadian fire fighters and first responders with the specialized training needed to safely and effectively respond to hazardous materials incidents—helping reduce injuries and fatalities while safeguarding public health.
• This program directly supports Canada's emergency management objectives by strengthening the skills, interoperability, and coordination of first responders, contributing to the broader strategic priority of building a more resilient Canada.
• Through the development of bilingual HazMat training materials, nationwide course delivery, and collaboration with key partners like the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, the program ensures consistent, high-quality training and improved protection for both responders and the public.

Background

Description

The purpose of this contribution is to address a gap in training among fire fighters and contribute to interoperability among first responders.

Source of funds

Budget 2009

Contribution program in support of the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund

Key messages

• Search and Rescue is a crucial emergency service, and the government dedicated to enhancing search and rescue to reduce the risk of injury or loss of life for Canadians.
• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• Public Safety Canada plays a leadership role in search and rescue by coordinating national policy frameworks and programs through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat, supporting search and rescue initiatives via the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), standardizing Heavy Urban Search and Rescue activities, and appoints Canada's Permanent Representative to the international COSPAS-SARSAT Programme.
• The SAR NIF supports projects that enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, innovation, and cost-effectiveness of search and rescue in Canada, with funding available to a wide range of eligible recipients including non-profits, governments, Indigenous and volunteer organizations, educational institutions, and non-commercial for-profit entities.

If pressed

Q1 – Public Safety Canada's Role in Search and Rescue Operations

• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared horizontally among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• The federal government, through the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard are responsible for responding to aeronautical and maritime search and rescue (SAR) incidents.
• Provinces and territories are responsible for providing response to ground SAR (GSAR) incidents. This responsibility is often delegated to the police of jurisdiction.
• Public Safety Canada (PS) does not have an operational role in SAR, however, support through the Government Operations Centre (GOC) may be requested for additional or unusual resources.
• PS through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) provides national level leadership in fostering a resilient and effective response system and advancing initiatives that enhance safety, preparedness, and mutual support.

Q2 – Search and Rescue in Indigenous Communities

• Responsibility for a SAR response lies with the police agency having jurisdiction in most communities.
• Canada's National SAR system is dedicated to seamless search and rescue and requests for assistance through provincial/territorial support or requests for assistance for federal SAR support are available where appropriate.

Background

Description

The Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), was established by the federal government in 1988, and is managed by Public Safety Canada (PS), in partnership with other federal, provincial and territorial search and rescue (SAR) organizations. SAR NIF provides annual funding for projects that will improve Canada's search and rescue system.

Source of funds

Budget 2016

COSPAS-SARSAT Contribution Program

Key messages

• Search and Rescue is a crucial emergency service, and the government dedicated to enhancing search and rescue to reduce the risk of injury or loss of life for Canadians.
• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• Public Safety Canada plays a leadership role in search and rescue by coordinating national policy frameworks and programs through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat, supporting search and rescue initiatives via the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), standardizing Heavy Urban Search and Rescue activities, and appoints Canada's Permanent Representative to the international COSPAS-SARSAT Programme.
• Canada's participation in the International COSPAS-SARSAT Program ensures our search and rescue authorities receive accurate, timely, and reliable distress alerts and location data—dramatically reducing search times and improving outcomes for people in distress.
• This program directly supports Public Safety Canada's priority of building a nation that can effectively mitigate, respond to, and recover from emergencies by enabling faster, more effective SAR missions that help save lives and reduce the severity of injuries.

If pressed

Q1 – Public Safety Canada's Role in Search and Rescue Operations

• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared horizontally among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• The federal government, through the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard are responsible for responding to aeronautical and maritime search and rescue (SAR) incidents.
• Provinces and territories are responsible for providing response to ground SAR (GSAR) incidents. This responsibility is often delegated to the police of jurisdiction.
• Public Safety Canada (PS) does not have an operational role in SAR; however, support through the Government Operations Centre (GOC) may be requested for additional or unusual resources.
• PS through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) provides national level leadership in fostering a resilient and effective response system and advancing initiatives that enhance safety, preparedness, and mutual support.

Q2 – Search and Rescue in Indigenous Communities

• Responsibility for a SAR response lies with the police agency having jurisdiction in most communities.
• Canada's National SAR system is dedicated to seamless search and rescue and requests for assistance through provincial/territorial support or requests for assistance for federal SAR support are available where appropriate.

Background

Description

The International COSPAS-SARASAR Programme is a satellite-based search and rescue (SAR) distress alert detection and information distribution system, best known for detecting and locating emergency beacons activated by aircraft, ships and backcountry hikers in distress.

The COSPAS-SARSAT assessed contribution meets Canada's obligation to pay its share of operational costs incurred by the COSPAS-SARSAT Secretariat in performing its administrative functions.

Source of funds

Budget 2016

Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Program (HUSAR)

Key messages

• Search and Rescue is a crucial emergency service, and the government dedicated to enhancing search and rescue to reduce the risk of injury or loss of life for Canadians.
• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• Public Safety Canada plays a leadership role in search and rescue by coordinating national policy frameworks and programs through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat, supporting search and rescue initiatives via the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), standardizing Heavy Urban Search and Rescue activities, and appoints Canada's Permanent Representative to the international COSPAS-SARSAT Programme.
• In the context of large-scale urban emergencies, specialized response capabilities are essential. The HUSAR Program plays a critical role in maintaining the operational readiness of Canada's six HUSAR Task Forces, located in Vancouver, Calgary, Manitoba, Toronto, Montréal, and Halifax. These teams are trained and equipped to respond to complex incidents such as structural collapses, major explosions, and natural disasters in densely populated areas.
• As growing cities, aging infrastructure and climate variability increase across the country, ensuring sufficient HUSAR capacity is increasingly important.

If pressed

Q1 – Public Safety Canada's role in Search and Rescue Operations

• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared horizontally among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• The federal government, through the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard are responsible for responding to aeronautical and maritime search and rescue (SAR) incidents.
• Provinces and territories are responsible for providing response to ground SAR (GSAR) incidents. This responsibility is often delegated to the police of jurisdiction.
• Public Safety Canada (PS) does not have an operational role in SAR, however, support through the Government Operations Centre (GOC) may be requested for additional or unusual resources.
• PS through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) provides national level leadership in fostering a resilient and effective response system and advancing initiatives that enhance safety, preparedness, and mutual support.

Q2 – Search and Rescue in Indigenous Communities

• Responsibility for a SAR response lies with the police agency having jurisdiction in most communities.
• Canada's National SAR system is dedicated to seamless search and rescue and requests for assistance through provincial/territorial support or requests for assistance for federal SAR support are available where appropriate.

Q3 – Interprovincial deploy ability of Heavy Urban Search and Rescue assets

• Canada's 6 Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) Task Forces are based in Vancouver, Calgary, Manitoba, Toronto, Montréal, and Halifax.
• These resources are municipally or provincially owned.
• The HUSAR National Concept of Operations provides critical information and lays out the mechanisms required to request and receive support between provincial and territorial jurisdictions.
• PS through a provincial or territorial request for assistance may provide support in accessing the unique capabilities of HUSAR Task Forces in alignment with the given needs of an emergency.

Background

Description

The Public Safety-led National Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) Program recognizes six HUSAR task forces across the country and coordinates cost-shared federal investments for specific domestic initiatives or projects. PS is working to standardize HUSAR activities across Canada and foster interoperability between task forces.

Source of funds

Budget 2016 announced ongoing funding of $3.1M starting in 2016-17.

Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada Contribution Program

Key messages

• Search and Rescue is a crucial emergency service, and the government dedicated to enhancing search and rescue to reduce the risk of injury or loss of life for Canadians.
• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• The Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) exists to unify and support ground search and rescue volunteers across Canada, enhancing their ability to respond effectively and promoting public safety through consistent SAR awareness and education.
• The SARVAC Contribution Program strengthens ground SAR by providing national coordination, standardized training, and consistent prevention messaging for over 12,000 volunteers—ensuring a reliable, capable volunteer force that supports all levels of government in protecting Canadians

If pressed

Q1 – Public Safety Canada's role in Search and Rescue Operations

• Responsibility for search and rescue is shared horizontally among federal, provincial, territorial and local authorities as well as volunteer organizations.
• The federal government, through the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard are responsible for responding to aeronautical and maritime search and rescue (SAR) incidents.
• Provinces and territories are responsible for providing response to ground SAR (GSAR) incidents. This responsibility is often delegated to the police of jurisdiction.
• Public Safety Canada (PS) does not have an operational role in SAR, however, support through the Government Operations Centre (GOC) may be requested for additional or unusual resources.
• PS through the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) provides national level leadership in fostering a resilient and effective response system and advancing initiatives that enhance safety, preparedness, and mutual support.

Q2 – Search and Rescue in Indigenous Communities

• Responsibility for a SAR response lies with the police agency having jurisdiction in most communities.
• Canada's National SAR system is dedicated to seamless search and rescue and requests for assistance through provincial/territorial support or requests for assistance for federal SAR support are available where appropriate.

Q3 – Government of Canada Support for Search and Rescue Volunteers

• SAR volunteers represented by their national associations - the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association, Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC), provide support to those organizations with authorities and responsibilities in each of the three SAR jurisdictions–aeronautical, maritime and GSAR respectively.
• Funding is provided by the Government of Canada to each of the national SAR volunteer associations through the Department of National Defense, Canadian Armed Forces, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canadian Coast Guard, and PS.
• SAR volunteers are eligible for the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit recently raised to $6,000 in recognition of the time and financial commitments volunteers provide.

Background

Description

The Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) Contribution Program provides organizational and functional funding to the national association for the purpose of improving Ground Search and Rescue coordination, consistency and standardization.

Source of funds

Budget 2016

Memorial Grant Program for First Responders

Key messages

• When firefighters, police officers, paramedics, correctional, parole or probation officers put their safety on the line, they are acting in service to all Canadians.
• In recognition of the critical role of first responders in protecting Canadians, the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders will provide a one-time lump sum, federal tax-free direct maximum payment of $300,000 to the beneficiaries of first responders who have died as a result of their duties.
• The Memorial Grant is a non-economic benefit and does not compensate beneficiaries of first responders for monetary loss (income replacement) or serve as life insurance, but rather, is in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

If pressed

Q1 - If pressed on year to year variance between 2024-25 Main estimates and 2025-26 Main estimates

• The 2024-25 main estimates include the program's a-base budget of $21.6M, along with $33.9M from the off-cycle budget approved in 2022.
• For 2025-26, an additional $27.9M Sunsetter renewal has been approved. This will bring the total to $49.5M, which includes the a-base budget of $21.6M.

Background

Description

In recognition of the critical role of first responders in protecting Canadians, the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders (MGP) provides a one-time lump sum with a tax-free maximum payment of $300,000 to the families of first responders who have died as a result of their duties. This includes deaths resulting from occupational illness or psychological impairment (i.e. suicide), while keeping Canadians safe.

Source of funds

• Budget 2017 announced funding of $117.4M over five years, starting in 2018–2019, and $23.4M ongoing for establishing a compensation program.
• In a 2022 Off-Cycle budget decision, the Government decided to provide $111.8 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to Public Safety to eliminate the Memorial Grant Program backlog and accommodate projected near-term growth in program applications. This funding sunset in 2024-25.

Payments in support of activities complementary to those of the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Key messages

• The Policy Development Contribution Program (PDCP) is designed to enhance public safety by fostering collaboration among all levels of government and community partners on key policy issues.
• Through targeted funding, the program supports three types of projects—Communication and Information Exchange, Innovation and Research, and Training and Skills Development—with the goal of building consensus, encouraging cooperation, and driving meaningful policy initiatives across the public safety landscape.
• Two government initiatives will be funded under the Program.
• The Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI) initiative focuses on helping public safety personnel—like police, firefighters, and paramedics—get the mental health support they need, including access to online therapy.
• Also under this Program is the new Red Flag Awareness Initiative to support organizations and communities in raising awareness on the new "red flag" laws. "Red flag" laws were created through former Bill C-21 to help reduce firearm-related harm. Red flag laws allow anyone to apply to a court for the removal of a firearm from someone who poses a risk to themselves or others, including in situations of intimate partner violence.

Background

Description

The Policy Development Contribution Program's (PDCP) overall objectives are to forge greater consensus and cooperation among various levels of government and other stakeholders through policy initiatives and activities.

The program contributes to the achievement of departmental legislative, policy development, and consultative objectives by:

• Supporting projects in priority areas to address public policy issues of strategic importance to the Department;
• Supporting information driven projects and participation in cross-sectoral and inter-jurisdictional policy and legislative initiatives;
• Supporting innovative approaches and the acquisition of knowledge and the ability to translate knowledge into action for communities and community-based organizations; and
• Contributing to enhanced public safety and emergency management.
• This program supports strategic projects undertaken by Departmental stakeholder organizations that contribute to policy-making.

Public Safety Canada's Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI) initiative is a national effort to support the mental health and well-being of public safety personnel—such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics, correctional officers, and others—who are regularly exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty. Recognizing the serious impact of these experiences, the initiative focuses on prevention, early intervention, treatment, and stigma reduction related to PTSI. Key components of the initiative include:

• $5 million in funding in 2025-26 for the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT), a national institute that provides tools and supports to support the mental health of public safety personnel.
• Development of Internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (ICBT) to improve access to mental health care, especially in remote or underserved areas.
• Collaboration with stakeholders across all levels of government and public safety sectors to create a coordinated national action plan.
• Public awareness and education efforts to reduce stigma and promote resilience among public safety personnel

Public Safety Canada's new Policy Development Contribution Program - Red Flag Awareness Initiative 2025 was launched in February 2025 to raise awareness about the new Red Flag laws that came into force in December 2023 when former Bill C-21 received Royal Assent. Red Flag laws allow anyone to apply to a court for an order to remove a firearm from someone who poses a risk to themselves or others, including in situations of gender-based and intimate partner violence and when there is a risk of self-harm.

• The Initiative aims to provide funding to eligible organizations and communities to mobilize knowledge on these measures, as well as complementary mechanisms to protect communities.
• Funded projects would help provide information on "Red Flag" laws to those at risk of firearm-related harm and relevant supporting organizations. It will target a wide range of audiences, including victims, marginalized groups, and those most at risk of various forms of firearm-related harm: women, Indigenous peoples, rural, and Northern communities, other racialized communities, and people experiencing mental health conditions and/or thoughts of suicide.

A total of $2.0 million is available in 2025-26 and $2.8 million is available in 2026-27.

Source of funds

• As noted in the Economic Fiscal Update 2021, the government has provisioned for $5 billion in 2021-22 for its share of recovery costs under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements as well as other costs related to the recent natural disasters in British Columbia.
• Budget 2021 proposes to provide $1.9 billion over five years, on a cash basis, starting in 2021–22, to Public Safety Canada to support provincial and territorial disaster response and recovery efforts. This funding is to cover existing liabilities from previous events for which PS is awaiting claims from provinces and territories. This funding does not cover the most recent disasters that have taken place in BC.
• Recognizing that recovery efforts are still underway and cost estimates are in development, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement establishes a provision of $1 billion in 2022-23 in anticipation of Hurricane Fiona-related requests from provinces under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements.

Core responsibility: Internal services

Key messages

• Strong internal services are the foundation of any effective department. They ensure we can meet our corporate obligations and deliver programs that Canadians rely on. In 2025–2026, Public Safety Canada will focus on four key areas to strengthen our internal capacity and support our workforce.
• A healthy, engaged workforce is essential to delivering results. That is why Public Safety Canada will continue to build a culture that values employee well-being and promotes ethical leadership. The Department will implement initiatives to improve the employee experience, support hybrid work, and enhance retention by fostering a strong sense of belonging.
• Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility remain top priorities. We'll continue to identify and address systemic barriers, increase awareness, and implement concrete actions to end racism and ensure all employees can fully contribute to our mission of serving Canadians.
• To support the Department's operations, we will invest in modernizing IT systems to address capacity challenges and improve service delivery. This includes tackling technological debt and ensuring our digital infrastructure meets the evolving needs of our workforce and programs.
• A key corporate focus for 2025 to 2026 will be to enhance and expand integrated business planning within the Department, including modernizing and enhancing the departmental risk, governance, results and reporting frameworks.

Background

Results we plan to achieve

Fostering employee well-being and sense of belonging

Employees' well-being and sense of belonging are crucial to a productive workforce and efficient people management within an organization. In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will continue to build a culture that values the well-being of its employees and promotes values and ethics. To foster a strong sense of belonging, the Department will develop and implement programs and initiatives to improve employees' experience, as well as provide the tools and support for the hybrid work model, and therefore enhance employee retention.

Building a diverse, inclusive and accessible workplace

In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will continue to advance its agenda on promoting equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in the organization. It will aim to increase collective awareness and further understand where gaps and barriers exist to inform direction and decisions. It will implement measures and actions to end racism, allow equitable participation of all employees and enable full capacity of its workforce at the service of Canadians.

Investing in key services and infrastructure

Public Safety Canada recognizes that, in order for the Department to deliver effective programs and meet its corporate obligations, it requires strong and effective corporate services support. In 2025 to 2026, Public Safety Canada will continue to invest in and modernize its Information Technology services to address capacity, technological debt, and workforce pressures while improving access to services.

Promoting integration, coherence and collective management

A key corporate focus for 2025 to 2026 will be to enhance and expand integrated business planning within the Department, including modernizing and enhancing the departmental risk, governance, results and reporting frameworks.

Core responsibility: Border Management

Key messages

• The Canada Border Services Agency works to keep Canadians safe by identifying potential threats, dealing with situations where laws aren't followed, while making sure that people and goods can move in and out of the country.
• The CBSA is supporting the delivery of Canada's Border Plan through actions like stopping firearms and illicit drugs, including fentanyl, from entering Canada, and continuing to combat human trafficking and trade-based money laundering.
• To support the Federal Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, the CBSA has expanded examination capabilities and detection technology tools, while also enhancing intelligence sharing with law enforcement partners to help identify transnational organized crime groups and their members involved in stolen vehicle exports.
• At the same time, the CBSA is investing in a secure, safe, and efficient travel experience for Canadians and visitors crossing our borders, with improvements to infrastructure and processes at Canada's ports of entry over the coming years.

Background

The CBSA assesses risk to identify threats, manages the free flow of admissible travellers and commercial goods into, through and out of Canada, and manages non-compliance.

Results we plan to achieve

The following is a summary of planned achievements in 2025–26 for the core responsibility of border management:

• The CBSA's intelligence, threat and risk assessment activities contribute to the identification, mitigation and neutralization of risks and threats to the safety, security and prosperity of Canada
  • Support the implementation of Canada's Border Plan, including a key focus on detecting and disrupting the fentanyl trade, enhancing tools for law enforcement, improving operational coordination, and expanding information sharing with key partners.
  • Combat the cross-border movement of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals, especially synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, through an array of measures to intercept illegal substances at ports of entry.
  • Combat the illegal importation of firearms and the threat of gun and gang violence through the Agency's Firearms Strategy, enhancements to detection capabilities, and collaboration with law enforcement partners.
  • Support the Federal Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft through enhanced detection tools and collaboration with port authorities, rail carriers and law enforcement partners to expand export examination capabilities.
  • Contribute to collective law enforcement efforts to combat human smuggling, including identifying instances of cross-border human smuggling, supporting the investigation and prosecution of offenders, and helping potential victims by referring them to appropriate government services.
  • Continue efforts to enhance the Agency's Immigration National Security Screening Program to strengthen the identification of inadmissible persons seeking entry into Canada.
  • Conduct regime reviews for potential designation by the Minister of Public
  • Safety in order to expand the Agency's ability to identify and prevent travel to Canada by persons who are in service of regimes that engage in terrorism, war crimes, genocide, or other international human rights violations.
  • Protect the integrity of Canada's participation in international trade through ongoing efforts to detect potential abuse of the customs process for the movement of illicit financial flows to and from Canada.
• Admissible travellers are processed in an efficient manner
  • Continue implementing the multi-year Traveller Modernization initiative, encompassing a series of improvements to infrastructure and processes at Canada's ports of entry that will expand the availability of digital technology and tools in order to expedite the movement of admissible travellers across the border and provide more capacity to focus on risks.
• Travellers and their goods are compliant with applicable legislation
  • Conduct a land preclearance operation in a co-located facility in the United States, with the aim of streamlining border processes for legitimate travellers and identifying inadmissible travellers prior to their arrival in Canada. This operation is taking place over a two-year period at the Covey Hill/Cannon Corners border crossing between Quebec and New York State.
• Admissible commercial goods and conveyances are processed in an efficient manner
  • Continue work to expand eManifest system capabilities for targeting officers and border services officers to process commercial shipments more efficiently.
  • Advance the Agency's E-Commerce Customs Strategy to keep pace with the continual rise in e-commerce importation volumes.
• Traders are compliant with applicable legislation and requirements
  • Continue working with Employment and Social Development Canada to identify and interdict goods that may have been produced by forced labour.
  • Conduct a cargo preclearance proof-of-concept in the air mode to inform the potential expansion of commercial preclearance operations in the United States.
• Importers comply with revenue requirements
  • Continually improve the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system following its successful launch in October 2024 as the official system of record to assess and collect duties and taxes for commercial goods imported into Canada. The CBSA will also use CARM and engage industry to work toward better compliance through greater accuracy of duty and tax submissions.
  • The CBSA is committed to delivering additional CARM functionality as part of future releases to build upon ongoing efforts to improve and streamline business processes and increase Government of Canada revenues. With systems such as CARM and eManifest, the CBSA enhances its ability to interdict contraband and manage approximately $40 billion a year in revenue for Canadians, which makes it the second-largest revenue collector behind the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Canadian producers are protected from unfairly dumped and subsidized imports
  • Conduct anti-dumping and countervailing investigations pursuant to the Special Import Measures Act to guard against unfair trade practices, defend domestic producers, and protect Canadian jobs.
  • Advance the Agency's E-filing Solution project to digitalize its Anti-dumping and Countervailing Program in support of Canada's obligations under the Canada- United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
• Trusted Traveller and Trader programs increase processing efficiency of low-risk, pre- approved travellers and traders
  • Continue administering the bilateral NEXUS program between Canada and the United States, as well as the Agency's Partners in Protection and Customs Self- Assessment programs, which support communities and economic interests on both sides of the border by expediting the crossing of pre-approved travellers and traders.
• Travellers and the business community have access to timely redress mechanisms
  • Continue providing individuals and businesses with an accessible mechanism to seek an impartial review of CBSA decisions taken under border legislation.
  • Support the function of the Public Complaints and Review Commission, which will serve as an independent review body for the CBSA following the Royal Assent of Bill C-20.
• Other planned achievements
  • Prepare for the opening in 2025 of a new port of entry as part of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan, a vital trade link between Canada and the United States.
  • Advance the Land Border Crossing Project to rebuild multiple land ports of entry over several years, including construction planning for one of the three large ports of entry in scope (St-Bernard-de-Lacolle). The Agency will also advance designs for several smaller ports of entry during the 2025–26 fiscal year.
• Continue to implement the Agency's Indigenous Framework and Strategy to guide reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Peoples, including:
• Advancing reconciliation priorities in support of the full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and Action Plan Measure 52 on Indigenous border mobility.
• Implementing the recommendations of the Many Voices, One Mind report, with monitoring and reporting on progress that addresses the barriers facing Indigenous employees.
• Implementing the recommendations of the Minister's Special Representative report, with monitoring and reporting on progress to uphold the honour of the Crown by ensuring that modern treaty obligations and rights under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 are respected in the Agency's work via consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples.

Core responsibility: Border Enforcement

Key messages

• The CBSA supports the immigration system when determining a person's admissibility to Canada, taking the appropriate immigration enforcement actions, and prosecuting persons who violate our laws.
• The CBSA is supporting the delivery of Canada's Border Plan, through actions such as increasing the number of removals of inadmissible foreign nationals. The Plan provided $55.5M to support immigration and asylum processing and to increase CBSA's capacity to reach 20,000 removals for the next two years.
• With the loss of access to provincial correctional facilities, the CBSA is currently upgrading its immigration holding centres to house high- risk detainees. Detention is used as a measure of last resort. Of individuals requiring CBSA supervision, 98.8% are enrolled in an alternative to detention, only 1% are detained in a CBSA Immigration Holding Centre, and 0.2% are detained in a provincial correctional facility.

Background

The CBSA contributes to Canada's security by supporting the immigration and refugee system when determining a person's admissibility to Canada, taking the appropriate immigration enforcement actions when necessary, and supporting the prosecution of persons who violate our laws.

Results we plan to achieve

The following is a summary of planned achievements in 2025–26 for the core responsibility of border enforcement:

• Immigration investigations identify persons inadmissible to Canada
  • Focus inland investigative resources on high-risk immigration cases, while maintaining the Agency's warrant management strategy to enhance immigration enforcement operations.
• Persons are in the most appropriate alternative to detention or detention facility according to their risk profile
  • Continue ensuring that detention is used as a measure of last resort; that placement within a CBSA facility or other location is based on a sound risk assessment framework; and that newly expanded alternatives to detention are leveraged appropriately throughout the entire enforcement continuum in accordance with risk mitigation strategies.
• The Minister's positions are appropriately represented in immigration and refugee decision-making processes
  • Continue ensuring the effective management of the Agency's hearings-related activities through the development of updated training materials and guidelines with regard to hearings before the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
• Inadmissible foreign nationals are prioritized and removed expeditiously from Canada
  • Continue to effect removals based on a robust risk management regime, with cases involving security, organized crime, human rights violations and criminality considered the highest priority for the safety and security of Canada and its citizens. The CBSA will increase the number of removals from 16,000 to 20,000 (a 25% increase) for fiscal years 2025–26 and 2026–27.
• People and businesses that are referred to Crown counsel for prosecution are convicted
  • Focus on investigating and prosecuting people and businesses that violate Canada's border-related legislation, with a focus on complex cases of fraud involving individuals and organizations posing a threat to Canada's immigration system, economy and communities.

Core responsibility: CBSA Internal Services

Key messages

• In 2024-25, the CBSA achieved a 2.6 percent reduction in total spending, compared to the previous year, by reducing the use of consultants, professional services and travel.
• The reduction did not come from a reduction in CBSA's critical operations.
• In 2025-26 the CBSA will continue to achieve management and operational efficiencies including human resources, financial and information management.
• Procurement practices will continue to be strengthened with senior oversight of all contracting activities.
• The focus is on delivering value for money, while also reducing reliance on external consultants.

Background

Internal services are the services that are provided within a department so that it can meet its corporate obligations and deliver its programs.

Results we plan to achieve

In addition to the planned achievements for its core responsibilities, the CBSA will take further steps to improve its internal services in 2025–26. For example, the CBSA will:

• Continue strengthening procurement practices through senior oversight of all contracting activities with a focus on delivering value for money, while also reducing reliance on external consultants.
• Enhance the Agency's cyber security framework to ensure a secure information technology environment and support effective delivery of the Agency's mandate.
• Provide reliable and accessible communications to a wide array of stakeholders, including travellers, businesses, parliamentarians, media, and the Canadian public, to address the information needs of diverse audiences at home and abroad

CSC Main estimates 2025-2026

Key messages

• Protecting the safety and security of our institutions and our communities is a top priority for the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC).
• Through these Main estimates, CSC is seeking an increase of 21.8% over the previous year to continue essential operations in our institutions.
• The additional funds will be used to support several necessary measures.
• These include fulfilling CSC's legal obligations, addressing immediate pressures due to changes in offender population and cost fluctuations, and stabilizing operations related to workplace injuries.
• Funding will also allow CSC to maintain and repair facilities to protect those who live and work in them, and also support the development of an innovative centre that will provide offenders with physical and mental healthcare.

If pressed – Class Action Lawsuits

• The Correctional Service of Canada remains committed to meeting its legal obligations.
• Through these Main estimates, CSC is seeking $367.7 million, which is part of an agreement pertaining to the previous use of administrative segregation which was abolished in November 2019.

If pressed – Change in offender population volumes and price fluctuations

• To fulfil its mandate, the Correctional Service of Canada incurs significant costs that can fluctuate as the result of factors beyond the department's ability to control, predict, or influence.
• For example, CSC has seen a 19% increase in its custodial population over the past 5 years.
• CSC is seeking funding to support public safety through the appropriate care and custody of inmates, and eventual reintegration of offenders into the community.
• Through these Main estimates, CSC is seeking $108.4 million to address pressures facing the Correctional Service of Canada due to fluctuations in offender population levels and/or price changes on specific quasi-statutory items.

If pressed – Health Centre of Excellence

• The health and safety of our employees and those in our care and custody is the highest priority for the Correctional Service of Canada.
• Through these Main estimates, CSC is seeking $40.9 million to advance the construction of the Health Centre of Excellence in the Atlantic Region.
• The facility will not only meet CSC's legislative requirements to provide essential health care but will also help alleviate the pressure on community hospital beds.

If pressed – Safety of our Institutions

• The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) works to provide safe and secure institutions for our employees, inmates and visitors.
• The nature of the work performed in our institutions can be difficult and unpredictable, and it is important that our infrastructure is safe for those who live and work there.
• Through these Main estimates, CSC is seeking $30 million in funding to maintain its correctional facilities, as well as $15 million for enhanced cleaning protocols.

If pressed – Importance of Ensuring Adequate Staffing

• Protecting the safety and security of our institutions and our communities is a top priority for the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC).
• We need to recruit a diverse and highly skilled workforce to achieve this.
• Through the Main estimates, CSC is seeking $15 million to support the continued operation of the National Satellite Training Academy.
• This is a longstanding part of CSC's efforts to train enough correctional officers to allow them to better meet the staffing requirements of federal institutions around the country.
• This increase also reflects additional funding to support the recently signed collective agreements which strengthens CSC's ability to attract and retain qualified staff.
• Ensuring the appropriate number of correctional officers leads to safer institutions and safer communities for all Canadians.

If Pressed – Refocusing Government Spending

• CSC is contributing to the Government of Canada's Refocusing Government Spending initiative, while continuing to prioritize public safety and the continued operation of safe and secure institutions.
• CSC will continue to review operational resources to identify specific areas where efficiencies could be achieved and where resourcing standards could be adjusted.

Core responsibility: Care and custody

Background

Results we plan to achieve

A key focus is reducing non-natural deaths, escapes, and serious incidents per 1,000 offenders. CSC plans to enhance security through policy reviews, technological upgrades (e.g., body and ion scanners, drone detection), and strengthened partnerships with law enforcement. A layered security approach will be maintained, integrating traditional methods with modern technologies.

To combat contraband and drug-related issues, CSC will revise enforcement policies, including those on urinalysis and detector dog deployment. Collaboration with Health Canada will continue to expedite drug identification. Harm reduction initiatives—such as the Prison Needle Exchange Program and Overdose Prevention Services—will be expanded to support inmates with substance use disorders.

CSC will also introduce a Security Threat Group (STG) Strategy to manage gang-affiliated offenders, focusing on behavior-based accountability and reducing STG-related violence.

Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with plans for waste audits and energy performance contracts aligned with TBS–Greening Government Strategy.

CSC also aims to reduce upheld inmate grievances and improve services for older inmates. Updates to grievance policies and the expansion of Alternative Dispute Resolution are planned.

The Structured Intervention Unit (SIU) framework will also be refined to better manage complex cases and mental health challenges. In addition, CSC will look to revitalize the Structured Living Environments at women offender institutions.

The introduction of body scan technology, along with regulatory and policy changes, has added safeguards to the use of dry cells, ensuring they remain a necessary and secure method for preventing contraband in high-risk situations.

CSC will also develop a new health model to better support aging inmates.

Core responsibility: Correctional interventions

Background

Results we plan to achieve

One of CSC's main priorities is to prepare offenders for successful reintegration into society. This will be done with a focus on culturally informed programming, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced community engagement to improve correctional outcomes.

Key initiatives include the implementation of digital tools like the Correctional Planning and Decisions initiative, the Path Home reminder system for Indigenous offenders, and the Section 84 module to support pre-release planning. CSC will also expand Indigenous-focused programs and develop an Indigenous Health and Wellness Action Plan. The Service will also endeavor to expand the Institutional Mother-Child Program with a focus on Indigenous women.

CSC is committed to supporting marginalized groups through strategies like the Black Offender Strategy and the Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy, and by enhancing services for women and elderly offenders. Efforts will also target reducing suspension and revocation rates for Indigenous offenders and improving Elder service contracting.

To support reintegration, CSC will expand virtual correctional programming, improve digital education access, and enhance employment training through CORCAN industries and penitentiary agriculture programs.

CSC places a strong emphasis on improving services for victims of crime. Through its Restorative Opportunities program, CSC will continue to offer victim-offender mediation services grounded in restorative justice principles. These services aim to address the harm caused by serious crimes and support healing for victims. In collaboration with federal partners, CSC will enhance its Communications and Outreach Strategy for Victims and update the policy framework for the National Victim Services Program. These updates are designed to improve service delivery, ensure alignment with the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights, and strengthen CSC's capacity to meet victims' needs with compassion, transparency, and accountability.

Additional efforts include expanding faith-based reintegration projects, improving Citizen Advisory Committees, and increasing access to social, recreational, and life skills programs. A new tracking system for unstructured social activities and updates to relevant policies will support these goals.

Core responsibility: Community supervision

Background

Results we plan to achieve

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) aims to ensure that offenders under community supervision remain law-abiding and successfully complete their sentences without re- admission. To achieve this, CSC is implementing several strategic initiatives in collaboration with community partners and residential facilities.

CSC plans to work closely with Community-Based Residential Facilities (CBRFs) to secure appropriate housing and services, particularly for those with residency requirements. This includes expanding CBRF capacity, especially for women offenders, and aligning accommodations with individual needs.

CSC is also enhancing its electronic monitoring (EM) capabilities to better supervise high-risk offenders, particularly those with geographical restrictions. Updates to EM policies will ensure they reflect current operational realities.

To support data-driven decision-making, CSC is reviewing and improving the quality and accuracy of community performance measures through the Offender Management System Modernization (OMS-M) project. Additionally, the Offender Accommodation Management (OAM) system will be used to visualize offender population flows and assess regional capacity needs.

Health care continuity is another priority. CSC will ensure that relevant health information is shared with authorized community partners before an offender's release, in compliance with legislation and policy. This includes coordination with long-term care homes and support for older offenders transitioning into the community. CSC is also exploring partnerships for palliative and end-of-life care services.

Overall, these initiatives aim to support offender reintegration, reduce recidivism, and ensure public safety through coordinated community supervision and support systems.

Core responsibility: CSC Internal Services

Background

Results we plan to achieve

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is advancing a broad range of internal service initiatives to support a modern, inclusive, and effective organization. A key priority is contributing to the goal of hiring 5,000 persons with disabilities by 2025 across the Public Service, through inclusive hiring practices and barrier removal. CSC is also updating training programs, including ethical leadership and women-centered training, to reflect evolving values and workforce needs.

To foster workplace well-being, CSC has established the Office of the Ombuds for Workplace Well-Being and continues to promote ethical conduct through the Office of Integrity Risk and the Office of Values and Ethics. Anti-racism efforts are ongoing through an updated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Framework.

CSC is modernizing its digital presence and communications by enhancing web content and expanding social media outreach, including Instagram. It is also implementing strategic plans for people management, employment equity, and official languages for 2025–2028.

Efforts to recruit healthcare professionals are being strengthened through targeted strategies and infrastructure upgrades.

CSC will continue to collaborate with central agencies on modernizing its HR and pay systems. Additionally, it will advance the modernization of its financial management systems to streamline and automate business processes.

Data governance is a major focus, with the development of a departmental Digital Strategy and the implementation of the Offender Management System Modernization (OMS-M) project.

Mental health and wellness are prioritized through training, partnerships, and the renewal of CSC's National Comprehensive Strategy on Workplace Wellness. These initiatives aim to build a resilient, inclusive, and digitally ready organization that supports both staff and offender rehabilitation.

Core responsibility: Security Intelligence

Key messages

• The threat landscape that Canada is facing today is increasingly complex, high-tempo, and wide-ranging. As one of Canada's primary intelligence services, CSIS has specific needs for its infrastructure, as it must ensure that its facilities and personnel remain safe and secure in the face of various threats.
• While detailed breakdowns of CSIS expenditures are classified, CSIS will receive $980.1M in the 2025-26 Main estimates. This represents an increase of $277.5M from the previous year.
• Funds provisioned here are necessary and will continue to ensure that CSIS is properly equipped with appropriate and secure facilities. Approximately [REDACTED] of this new funding is targeted investments in capital projects to modernize CSIS infrastructure in regions, as well as salary adjustments.
• Fit for purpose facilities are crucial to ensuring that the Service has the facilities and equipment needed to meet its core mandate: to investigate, assess, advise on, and reduce threats to the security of Canada.
• Funding will also be allocated to Canada's support to Ukraine and certain limited, targeted investments in existing capabilities.

If pressed

• Like all government agencies, CSIS operates within the budget it has been allocated by Parliament and adjusts its priorities to focus on the highest-harm threats in our national security environment.

Background

• This year's Main estimates represent a 39.5% increase over the previous year.
• [REDACTED] of this new funding constitutes targeted investments in CSIS' capital infrastructure and salaries for existing personnel.
• Specifically, the above represents an increase of $277.5M, which is primarily attributable to:
  • Investments in capital projects to modernize our infrastructure in the regions [REDACTED]
  • Economic increases for non-unionized employees [REDACTED]
  • Enhancing intelligence capabilities [REDACTED]and
  • New funding to support Ukraine [REDACTED]

Results we plan to achieve

• Modernize infrastructure in regions via investments in capital projects.
• Ensure that CSIS can offer competitive salaries comparative to the rest of the Public Service.
• Ensure CSIS' existing tools are maintained so that the Service can continue to combat global threats.
• Maintain and enhance CSIS' intelligence collection and analysis domestically and abroad to mitigate threats to the security of Canada posed by Russia, in direct support of our Ukrainian partners.

Financial note - Main estimates 2025-26 Parole Board of Canada (PBC)

Key messages

• The total funding sought by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) in Main estimates for 2025-26 is $72.4M, representing a $0.8M or 1.1% decrease over the previous year. The 1.1% decrease over the previous year can mainly be explained by the end of funding received to modernize the Pardon and Record Suspension System (PARSS) and the 3rd year of reductions under the refocusing government spending initiative (RGS); offset by increases in negotiated salary adjustments.
• The PBC is an independent administrative tribunal that, as part of the Canadian criminal justice system, makes independent, quality conditional release, record suspension/pardons and expungement decisions, as well as clemency recommendations, in a transparent and accountable manner, while respecting diversity and the rights of offenders and victims.
• This funding will continue to ensure the Parole Board is able to keep Canadians safe and help it address the challenges related to systemic discrimination in the criminal justice system, particularly for Indigenous peoples.
• It will help the Board continue to address the increasing complexity associated with conditional release decision-making, due to years of legislative change and court cases that have cumulatively increased the rigor and due diligence required in the Parole Board's case preparation and decision-making.
• The Parole Board will allocate 59% of its resources to legislated responsibilities for conditional release and related support and 7% for conditional release openness and accountability; 15% of its resources for record suspension/pardons and expungement decisions, and clemency recommendations; and the remaining approximately 19% of its resources will be used for internal services.
• Overall, the PBC plans on spending:
• $64.3M (89%) in operating expenditures net of revenue;
• $8.1M (11%) for employee benefit plans; and
• 528 full-time equivalents (FTEs), including Board members (Governor in council appointees).

Core responsibility: Conditional release decisions

Key messages

• The PBC's legislative framework is highly prescriptive, shaping PBC policy, training and operations, and clearly establishing the protection of society as the PBC's paramount consideration.
• Research demonstrates that the gradual and controlled release of offenders to the community with structure, support and supervision is the most effective approach for the safe reintegration of offenders into society.
• The PBC is committed to ensuring that its policies remain responsive to the unique needs and circumstances of diverse groups, including Indigenous, Black and other racialized people, women and other groups with special requirements, including aging offenders.

Background

Conditional release is based on the principle and supported by research that community safety is enhanced by the timely and gradual release of offenders to the community under supervision. Quality conditional release decisions, based on the risk of re-offending in conjunction with effective programs and treatment, and effective community supervision all contribute to the release process. Through this core responsibility, the Parole Board of Canada provides timely, accurate information for Board member decision-making, and develops training and policies that are essential tools for risk assessment and decision-making that are in accordance with the law.

Results we plan to achieve

• The PBC's Conditional Release core responsibility is grounded in the Corrections and Conditional Release Act. For the coming year, the PBC will continue to work closely withits criminal justice partners (i.e., Public Safety, Correctional Service Canada (CSC), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Department of Justice, and other community partners) to support quality conditional release decisions.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will hold approximately 14,000 reviews and expects to render approximately 21,000 decisions for federal and provincial/territorial offenders with the exception of Québec, Ontario and Alberta who have their own respective provincial parole board. In 2025-26, PBC hearings will continue to be held through a combination of in-person and remote participation.
• The PBC's Appeal Division contributes to the quality of the PBC's decision-making process by ensuring that conditional release decisions adhere to the law, the PBC's policies, and the principles of fundamental justice. In 2025-26, the Appeal Division will continue to identify appeal trends, strengths and issues observed during the year, with the objective of informing decision-making guidance and training to address the issues identified.
• The PBC will continue to support Board member capacity and training over the next year to ensure that quality conditional release decisions continue to be rendered.
• The PBC supports the government's approach to openness, accountability, and transparency, and will continue to work with the Privy Council Office (PCO) to complete Board member qualification processes in a timely manner. To optimize high-quality decision-making, Board members must have access to relevant and timely training.
• The PBC continues to employ in-person meetings and training complemented by virtual options for attendance and will continue to enhance learning curriculum to support the sound assessment of risk and high-quality decision-making.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to implement recommendations from the PBC's Moving Towards Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan by offering culturally responsive hearing processes for Black offenders in addition to the responsive hearings offered for Indigenous offenders.
• The PBC will continue to strive to make the parole process more responsive and adaptive to the needs of women, Indigenous Peoples, Black offenders, and other racialized groups.

Core responsibility: Conditional release openness and accountability

Key messages

• The PBC recognizes the important role that victims play in the conditional release process and remains committed to ensuring victims' voices are heard and that their rights are respected.
• The provision of services for victims of crime is a legislated priority and an important aspect of the PBC's commitment to transparency and accountability.
• The PBC conducts outreach to foster constructive engagement with the public, its community partners and stakeholders. Its outreach activities provide key information on its conditional release, record suspension, expungement and clemency programs to these groups. In 2024-25 the PBC delivered a total of 451 outreach activities across the country.

Background

This core responsibility ensures that the PBC operates in an open and accountable manner, consistent with the provisions of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act. It includes working with victims of crime, offenders, and the public by providing information about PBC's policies and programs, including access to the PBC's registry of decisions, as well as providing assistance for observers at hearings. The core responsibility also includes working to encourage citizen engagement, enhancing public education and awareness, investigating incidents in the community (i.e., when a new offence occurs), monitoring the PBC's performance and reporting on conditional release results.

Results we plan to achieve

• The PBC recognizes the important role that victims play in the conditional release process and remains committed to respecting and protecting their rights under the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights. The PBC will continue to facilitate victim and observer participation in hearings.
• To fulfill its legislative mandate to inform the public about the Conditional Release program, the PBC will continue using social media platforms and other wide-audience mediums to communicate with the public. When possible, the PBC will deliver community outreach, as well as engage with criminal justice and community partners and networks.
• The PBC will continue to deliver a blend of in-person and virtual outreach to Canadians. Virtual outreach through online videoconference technology has proven to be an effective and efficient method of building on more traditional face-to-face outreach and broadening the PBC's potential reach with both established and new audiences.
• As part of the Board member qualification process, the PBC will continue to promote Board member opportunities to various diversified organizations and associations across the country. Recognizing the PBC's legislative requirement to have a Board member complement that reflects the population that it serves, continued efforts will be made to attract a broader range of individuals to apply on Board member qualification processes.
• Additionally, working with CSC, through various working groups, remains an important component to effectively deliver core responsibilities.

Core responsibility: Record Suspension/Pardon and Expungement Decisions/Clemency Recommendations

Key messages

• A pardon/record suspension assists individuals in overcoming barriers associated with a criminal record including stigma and access to employment, housing, education and volunteer opportunities in the community.
• Since 1970, more than 500,000 Canadians have received pardons and record suspensions. Approximately 95% of these are still in force, indicating that the vast majority of pardon/record suspension recipients remain crime-free in the community.
• The PBC's new Service Portal will allow pardon/record suspension applicants to submit their applications online and improve processing times and accessibility.
• Expungement provides a remedy for people with historically unjust convictions for activities/actions that would be lawful today. When an expungement is ordered, the person convicted of the offence is deemed to never have been convicted of that offence.

Background

A record suspension/pardon is designed to support the sustained reintegration of an individual into society. It is an administrative act to remove the stigma of a criminal record for persons convicted of an offence under an Act of Parliament, who have completed their sentence, having met the criteria in the Criminal Records Act and demonstrated law-abiding behaviour for a prescribed number of years. Record suspensions/pardons can be revoked or cease to have effect if a new offence is committed or a person is no longer found to be of good conduct. In meeting this core responsibility, the PBC screens applications for completeness and eligibility, collects information for Board member decision-making and develops policy to guide decision- making processes.

In addition, under the Expungement Act, the PBC will order the expungement of records of convictions for eligible offences that would be lawful today. Persons convicted of an offence listed in the schedule to the Expungement Act may apply, as well as authorized representatives in cases where the person is deceased. The difference between a record suspension/pardon and an expungement is that with a record suspension/pardon, the criminal record is held 'separate and apart' from other criminal records, while an expungement will completely destroy the record. The PBC is also accountable for assessing requests and providing recommendations under the Royal Prerogative of Mercy (i.e., clemency) and providing advice to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness on the merits of each case.

Results we plan to achieve

• The PBC will strive to administer this core responsibility by assessing and processing all applications for record suspensions/pardons within the established processing times and by assessing and processing expungements in a timely manner. The PBC will also continue to work with criminal justice partners during the assessment of record suspension/pardon applications to facilitate processing and investigations. In 2025-26, it is estimated that the PBC will receive approximately 18,000 record suspension/pardon applications and accept approximately 14,000 for processing.
• As part of a broader government strategy to modernize the record suspension/pardons program, the PBC will enhance the PBC's internal records management system, the Pardon and Record Suspension System (PARSS). This project will modernize the current system, including interoperability with the RCMP, and include the implementation of a new public facing online portal to allow for the submission of record suspension/pardon, expungement and clemency applications electronically, and other correspondence in alternate formats which will increase accessibility for applicants, and improve sustainability of the Record Suspension program administration.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to administer the Expungement of Historically UnjustConvictions Act as well as process cannabis record suspension applications that are submitted under the amendments made to the CRA as a result of Bill C-93, an Act toprovide no-cost, expedited record suspensions for simple possession of cannabis, which came into force in August 2019.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to ensure clemency recommendations are made in a fair and transparent manner. The PBC estimates that it will receive approximately 40 requests for clemency in 2025-26.

Core responsibility: PBC Internal services

Background

Internal services are the services that are provided within a department so that it can meet its corporate obligations and deliver its programs. There are 10 categories of internal services:

• management and oversight services;
• communications services;
• legal services;
• human resources management services;
• financial management services;
• information management services;
• information technology services;
• real property management services;
• materiel management services; and
• acquisition management services.

Results we plan to achieve

• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to improve its approach to staffing sub-delegation by leveraging the use of technology to simplify and speed up staffing processes. The PBC will continue to foster and promote professional development for its employees, integrate values and ethics into their daily work, and ensure that the PBC has the right competencies for key positions. In addition, the PBC plans to continue to support the mental health and wellbeing of its Board members and employees by renewing and promoting its service agreements with the Employee Assistance Program (including LifeSpeak), Ombuds Services, and Informal Conflict Management Services.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to focus on areas of employment equity, diversity and inclusion (EEDI) by implementing measures that support the Clerk's Call to Action on anti-racism, equity, and inclusion in the Federal Public Service, the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and other government initiatives/strategies. The goal is to attract, recruit, mobilize, develop, and retain talent in underrepresented employment equity and equity-seeking groups. As such, the PBC will continue the delivery of the PBC's Employment Equity Plan by increasing the recruitment of under-represented groups, according to the Workforce Availability.
• The PBC will continue its efforts on the implementation of its Policy on Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention, and the requirements of the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations.
• Specifically, the PBC will focus on delivering training to its Board members and staff that is specific to the culture, conditions, and activities of the PBC's workplace, as well as developing tools and awareness communications on responding to and reporting occurrences of workplace harassment and violence.
• As the hybrid work model continues to evolve across the Public Service, the PBC will continue developing its Future of the Workplace Framework by assessing its accommodation requirements, including space, technological, and security requirements over the short and medium term (i.e., next 1 to 5 years). The PBC also plans to strengthen its materiel management framework through the improvement of asset management practices.
• In 2025-26, the PBC will continue to provide procurement services. The service delivery model offers services to other small departments and agencies (SDA). The service began as a pilot in 2023-24 and PBC signed Service Level Agreements with various SDAs. The plan is to sign additional agreements to achieve a stable revenue and service delivery model in the following years on an ongoing basis. The intent is to build stable capacity, develop and retain the employees in procurement, and address shortages in terms of acquisition management services at the PBC and within the SDA community.

RCMP – Main estimates financial note

Highlights

• The increase in the RCMP's Main estimates from 2024-2025 ($4,847.8 million) to 2025-26 ($6,076.4 million) is $1,228.7 million.
• The main contributors to the $1,228.7 million year-over-year increase are:
  • addressing growth and program continuity in the Contract Policing Program ($535.4M);
  • funding for the Presidency of the 2025 G7 Summit in Canada ($222.2M);
  • and funding for enhancing the integrity of Canada's borders ($100.6M).
• Additionally, there is an increase in: funding in support of payments in respect of disability and supplemental health benefits for members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police ($98.9M); compensation adjustments for various categories of employees and Employee Benefit Plans (EBP) ($87.5M); and the assault-style firearms compensation program ($85.5M).
• Further, there is an increase in funding in support of protection for public figures and democratic institutions ($42.6M); to modernize digital network infrastructure ($28.6M); and to combat foreign interference ($15.8M).
• Finally, there are net increases of $20.0M for other new initiatives, changes to the funding profile of previously approved initiatives, and transfers to and from other Government departments.
• These increases are partially offset by a decrease of $8.4M, as a result of the Refocusing Government Spending initiative.

Results we plan to achieve

For 2025-26, the RCMP will focus on delivery of the following results:

• Canada and Canadian interests are safe and secure against serious and complex criminal threats.
• Canada's most fundamental democratic and social institutions are secured through ensuring the safety and security of protected persons, sites, government-led events and Canadian air carriers.
• Modern specialized policing services and technologies support law enforcement and the public.
• Under Police Service Agreements, the RCMP provides modern contract policing services.
• The RCMP builds improved relationships with Indigenous Peoples and contributes to improved outcomes for Indigenous communities.

Highlights

• In addition to increases related to compensation adjustments for various categories of employees and Employee Benefit Plans, and disability and supplemental health benefits for members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police the individual Core Responsibilities experienced increases as follows:
  • The main contributors to the Federal Policing year-over-year increase are: the Presidency of the G7 Summit in Canada ($222.2M); enhancing the integrity of Canada's borders ($81.2M); and protection for public figures and democratic institutions ($31.1M).
  • The Specialized Policing Services' increase is mainly attributed to funding in support of combatting firearms crimes, and the firearms compensation programs ($80.0M); funding in support of enhancing the integrity of Canada's borders ($17.4M); and incremental funding to complete Law Enforcement Record Checks for various departments ($11.0M).
  • The Contract and Indigenous Policing increase is to address growth and program continuity in the contract policing program ($482.1M)
• Finally, the Internal Services increase is primarily due to enabling the program delivery of the initiatives listed above ($73.9M). It also addresses capital reprofiles ($36.6M) and increases to modernize digital network infrastructure ($28.6M).