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Canadian Rural Partnership
Annual Report to Parliament 2000 - 2001 
Enhancing the Quality of Life for Rural Canadians Acrobat Portable Document Format (.pdf) What is the Rural Secretariat?The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that rural Canadians share the opportunities and benefits of national prosperity, and experience an enhanced quality of life. As many solutions require the involvement of more than one department or agency, the mandate of the Rural Secretariat is to work across government lines. The Rural Secretariat actively responds to the issues and unique needs of rural Canadians by working in partnership with residents of rural and remote areas to build strong, dynamic communities. It responds to rural issues and priorities through the Interdepartmental Working Group and provincial and territorial Rural Teams, and by co-ordinating a partnership approach to rural issues across the federal government. Activities of the Rural Secretariat include:
Enhancing the Quality of Life for Rural Canadians and Building Strong CommunitiesStrong communities, both rural and urban, are the foundation for economic and social growth in Canada. In the 2001 Speech from the Throne, the government reconfirmed its commitment to rural Canada and rural Canadians to work with communities to develop successful solutions to the challenges they face. This second annual rural report to Parliament demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Government of Canada to develop initiatives to support a higher quality of life in rural and remote Canada. Building from the 1996 Speech from the Throne, the government continues to respond to rural issues by upholding a vision of successful communities making informed decisions to guide their own future. In the ensuing five years, sustainable rural community development has been a key element in ensuring rural Canadians have access to the opportunities and benefits of national prosperity. Through the application of the Rural Lens, the government ensures that new initiatives respond to the reality of rural Canada. Key accomplishments highlighted in this report include: a dedicated rural portion (more than $427 million) of infrastructure investments; $125 million in Green Municipal Investment and Enabling Funds; enhancing access to federal services through Service Canada, Government On-Line and Connecting Canadians; improving access to financial resources for business and community development through a $90 million infusion to the Community Futures Development Corporations*; and testing innovative ways to improve rural health care through the Rural and Remote Health Innovations Initiative. * Also referred to as Community Business Development Corporations in Atlantic Canada Rural and remote Canada makes a vital contribution to the country's economy, quality of life and national identity. In 1999, according to Statistics Canada, 17 per cent of total national employment was in rural Canada, accounting for 15 per cent of total national Gross Domestic Product. Most of the contribution was from primary and natural resource sectors, which also contributed 40 per cent of total national exports. Rural and remote communities, broadly defined, accounted for about one third of Canada's population or approximately nine million people in 1996. Approximately 90 per cent of Canada's land mass is rural and remote. The contribution of rural Canada to the nation cannot only be measured in economic impact. Its very existence has long defined Canada as a people and a nation. All Canadians benefit from tourism, environmental stewardship and attractions available in rural and remote Canada. The Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada is the key policy framework supporting federal action in rural and remote Canada. Twenty-nine federal departments and agencies work in partnership with other levels of government and with non-governmental agencies to develop policies and programs that meet the specific needs of rural Canadians, providing knowledge, resources and expertise. Established in 1998, the Canadian Rural Partnership coordinates the efforts of federal departments engaged in social, economic and environmental areas. The Canadian Rural Partnership's Pilot Projects Initiative provides funding to rural communities, associations and organizations for projects that demonstrate creative and innovative approaches to community development in rural and remote Canada. Rural Lens This is a tool used within government to ensure that federal departments and agencies assess the effects of new policies, programs and services on rural Canadians before they are approved and implemented. The Rural Lens helps the federal government focus on issues related to specific geographical regions of Canada. This has enabled the government to make informed policy and program choices, and provide needed investments that reflect the unique social and cultural aspects of rural and remote Canada. Successful application of the Rural Lens has resulted in a dedicated rural portion (more than $427 million) of infrastructure investments, and improved access to federal tools and services through numerous Service Canada sites, 44 of which are located in rural and small communities. The establishment of the Office of Rural Health in Health Canada and an additional $90 million in the Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) are also a result of the application of the Rural Lens. Rural Dialogue The Rural Dialogue provides a voice for rural Canadians. Seven thousand Canadians contributed to the Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada through the Dialogue process where they expressed their priorities and challenges. The Government of Canada is using the Rural Dialogue to act on its commitment to provide rural Canadians with the tools they need for community development. The Framework includes a vision for rural Canada, 11 Priority Areas for action, and a set of principles that guide the federal approach to responding to the needs of rural and remote Canadians. The Dialogue continued with regional rural conferences, hosted by the Secretary of State, in British Columbia, the Yukon Territory, Ontario and Nova Scotia, and through other regional events. National Rural Conference – 2000 The first National Rural Conference was hosted by the Secretary of State Andy Mitchell in April 2000, in Magog-Orford, Quebec. About 500 participants, mostly from rural and remote communities across Canada, met with representatives from all levels of government. Delegates shared experiences and identified emerging trends, focussing on future opportunities as related to the Framework's Priority Areas. The results of the conference are being used to ensure policy and program decisions respond to the needs of Canadians living in rural and remote communities. Rural Action Plan The Rural Action Plan captures the key issues and lays out the next steps for government action in rural and remote areas. The issues are organized around the 11 Priority Areas of the Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada. At the National Rural Conference, the participants discussed progress on the framework and formulated 54 specific actions, many aimed at long-term, sustainable development strategies whereby communities develop solutions to meet specific local challenges. The 11 Rural Priorities of the Federal Framework for Action The Government of Canada is responding to issues identified by rural and remote Canadians. The Priority Areas have received focussed attention and the government action produced measurable results. This report provides a summary of many individual initiatives. The 11 Priority Areas are presented here under six categories. 1. Improve Access to ServicesIncluding Access to Federal Government Programs and Services, Health Care and EducationThe Government of Canada strives to work with provincial and territorial governments to explore new ways to provide all Canadians with access to government programs, such as modern, efficient health and education services, at reasonable cost, regardless of where they live. The government is fulfilling its commitment to involve rural and remote Canadians in providing beneficial and supportive services and programs that are sensitive to the unique cultural diversity of all regions of Canada.
2. Promote Economic, Business and Community DevelopmentThe federal government is committed to making its programs and services flexible, to meet the challenges of rural business and community development. With programs that develop skills and technology, the government is helping Canadians take advantage of new and future opportunities in the global, knowledge-based economies. By working with rural and remote Canadians where they live, the Government of Canada is assisting the development of community and grassroots networks, and helping to develop strong communities through sustainable local initiatives. Farm Credit Canada served 44,700 customers, issuing $1.8 billion in 13,289 loans last year. With a net income of $31.6 million, it experienced its eighth consecutive year of growth. The Farm Income Safety Net program is providing $5.5 billion in assistance over three years, while last year, the Canada Small Business Financing Act supported 17,667 small business loans, totalling $1.351 billion and creating 55,238 new jobs. Business Development Programs assist developing businesses, while Canada Post has teamed up with several financial institutions to offer rural and remote Canadians a wide variety of financial services. The Aboriginal Business Development Initiative has committed $14.6 million to investments over the next four years. The Agricultural Policy Framework calls for a broad approach to managing the renewal of Canadian agriculture through the framework approved in principle by federal, provincial and territorial ministers in June 2001. The federal government supports the agriculture and agri-food sector in assisting development and meeting the risks of a rapidly changing industry. With the focus on an integrated approach to on-farm food safety, protection of the environment, farm income safety nets, and innovation and renewal of the agricultural sector, farmers acquire the tools they need to assess their situation and make the best choices. In May 2000, the Government of Canada increased its commitment to the Community Futures Program by allocating $90 million for the next five years. The Matching Investment Initiative (MII) offered $29.7 million in 975 agri-food research projects in the fiscal year 2000–2001 to help diversify agricultural and agri-food markets, products and production. Government partnership initiatives for rural and remote Canada include: Interdepartmental Partnerships with Official-Language Communities; Canadian Centre for Public-Private Partnerships in Housing; Integrated Coastal Zone Management Community Projects; and Reaching Out to Aboriginal Peoples. Rural Teams have greatly assisted rural Canadians in developing these partnerships. 3. Upgrade Rural InfrastructureIncluding Rural Infrastructure for Community Development, Rural Telecommunications and the Use of the Information Highway Through increased access to infrastructure resources, telecommunications and Internet services, opportunities for growth can achieve long-term economic security. The Government of Canada is acting on its commitment to support innovation and help rural and remote communities to adapt and grow. Through a wide network of partners, many at the local level, the government assists with innovative solutions to maintaining and developing infrastructure.
4. Provide More Targeted Opportunities for Rural YouthYoung people are the key to sustaining long-term social and economic development, and are an integral part of our rural communities. This priority responds to educational needs, work experience opportunities and entrepreneurship among all rural youth, including Aboriginal youth.
5. Assist Leadership and Community Capacity BuildingThe Government of Canada is helping Canadians to build on their achievements, and to use existing skills to take advantage of new opportunities. With a focus on self-reliance and entrepreneurship, strategies and programs are assisting rural and remote Canada in sustaining itself over the long term.
6. Promote Rural CanadaThe Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that rural and remote Canada is a great place to live, prosper and raise a family. The federal government remains a dedicated and helpful partner for rural and remote communities to achieve their potential.
In the 2001 Speech from the Throne, the federal government stated that it would "strive to ensure that, wherever possible, its actions and programs are coordinated to help build local solutions to local challenges." Many initiatives are planned for the next year. The Rural Lens will help integrate the needs and interests of rural and remote Canada into all new and renewed government initiatives. Pilot projects and the Canadian Agricultural Rural Communities Initiative will support innovative solutions to local challenges. An evaluation of the first four years of project-level experience will be carried out in 2001–2002, to share the lessons learned and improve future programming. The federal government is continuing to report back to citizens on the 54 areas for action identified following the 2000 National Rural Conference. Rural Dialogues and a second National Rural Conference in 2002 will further define the path of the federal government in responding with initiatives to support sustainable development of our rural and remote communities. The rural policy and research agendas will focus on key assets and opportunities to provide greater support for community capacity building. The Rural Teams will continue to evolve and coordinate federal programs at the rural level through provincial Rural Action Plans. Through the use of the Rural Lens and direction from the Rural Dialogue, the Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada will continue to improve rural and remote Canadians' access to government programs and services, and to achieve positive, measurable results in 2001–2002.
Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Coordinating Rural Affairs
Secretary of State (Rural Development) (Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario)
A Global Portrait1 The OECD defines a predominantly rural region as a region with more than 50 per cent of its population living in rural communities. A rural community has a population density of less than 150 persons per square kilometre. In Canada, regions refer to census divisions and communities to census consolidated subdivisions. Rural areas are different from urban in four fundamental ways:
Dynamic Rural EconomyTourismSmall BusinessRural Canada is entrepreneurial. It is fuelled by small businesses— widely recognized as the engine of economic growth and job creation. Statistics Canada indicates that 35 per cent of people living in communities of less than 20,000 account for 38 per cent of all businesses in Canada. Small businesses are the bread and butter of the nation, with over 80 per cent employing less than 10 people. Population ChangesNew Economy RequirementsHealth Care AccessThe Rural CommitmentFederal Framework for Action in Rural CanadaWorking TogetherRural Lens
Partnerships
DialogueNational Rural Conference
Rural Action PlanRegional ActivitiesRural Dialogue ToolsThe Rural Dialogue is moving ahead with the help of a variety of communications tools put at the disposal of citizens and communities in rural and remote areas. For example, the Rural Dialogue On-Line Discussion Group enables interactive discussions on a variety of issues and concerns that affect rural and remote Canadians. The Rural Fairs and Exhibits Program, which was part of more than 560 fairs, trade shows and municipal conferences across Canada over the last five years, brings important information on federal government programs and services to rural and remote communities. The Rural Times newsletter, which features news and success stories from rural areas across the country, continues to be distributed quarterly. As well, the on-line discussion group will be enhanced over the next year to include electronic town hall meetings as indicated in the Rural Action Plan. Additional regional dialogue activities with partners were conducted through 2001 and more will follow. Increased youth participation will form part of future regional and national dialogues.Rural Teams
Priorities and Achievements
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaRural Exhibits Program The Government of Canada Rural Exhibits program is expected to visit between 100 and 115 locations in rural and remote Canada this year. In the last five years, the program has visited over 560 locations, including fairs, conferences, trade shows and malls. Pocket Directory The Rural Secretariat, through the Canadian Rural Partnership, publishes the Pocket Directory of Rural Programs and Services. This directory is distributed through the Rural Exhibits Program, the Community Access Program (CAP), Service Canada Centres, rural municipalities and organizations, public requests and other means. It is also available electronically on the Canadian Rural Partnership's Web site at http://rural.gc.ca. Canadian Rural Information Service (CRIS) This service responds to the information needs of rural and remote Canadians by providing guides to information resources, customized information packages on specific queries, a Web site of rural development sources, referrals to expert sources of information, and customized bibliographic searches. The CRIS Web site can be found at http://www.agr.ca/cris. The exhibits program, directory and CRIS all provide information to Canadians living in rural and remote communities on how to access government programs and services. Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyThe Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) continues to maintain a Web presence that provides its clients with a description of its programs and eligibility criteria, as well as an easy on-line form. The usefulness of this mode of access to information has been demonstrated by the 10,000 to 15,000 client visits per week. These clients are currently accessing 4,000 to 6,000 electronic files each week. The Web site is http://www.acoa.ca. Canada Customs and Revenue AgencyThe agency is striving to make it easier for rural Canadians to access information and services, and to provide the support they need to meet obligations or receive entitlements. The agency continues to expand the services that it provides electronically and by telephone to Canadians. In the 2000 tax-filing year, NETFILE was made available to all Canadians, and more than 1.4 million Canadians filed their taxes on-line. This is just one of the many products and services available on the agency's Web site. Recognizing that not everyone has Internet access, the telephone-based system for filing returns has also been expanded. The TELEFILE service, already available for income tax filing, is now available for sales and harmonization taxes (the Goods and Services Tax [GST] and provincial sales taxes blended together for collection by the federal government). Also, employers can now use the new toll-free telephone service to report payroll information when their remittance amount is nil. The national 1-800 telephone system allows the flexibility to route calls to available agents from anywhere in Canada, providing equitable and balanced telephone access to all Canadians. Canada PostCanada Post is working to improve the financial viability of rural post offices and ensure that Canadians have both retail postal services and a federal presence in their community for the long term. Many important services are offered in rural and remote areas through Canada Post's network of 7,100 retail offices. They include Canadian Firearms Application forms, passport application forms, the Passport Receiving Agent Program, Atlantic Recreational Fishing Licences, and Canada Customs and Revenue Agency T1 non-personalized guides and forms. Human Resources Development CanadaIndustry CanadaIn 2000–2001, the government expanded the CBSC in-person access to a network of 382 regional access partners. This network extends access to business information resources to many communities, including Aboriginal communities, across the country. Most regional access partners are located in rural or remote areas, with a mandate to provide service to small businesses in their communities. The CBSCs are operated by the Industry Portfolio on behalf of the federal government, and include Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Industry Canada, Federal Economic Development (Northern Ontario), Canada Economic Development (Quebec regions), and Western Economic Diversification (working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments and non-government business service organizations). The Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre initiated a Mobile Business Service Centre, while the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre administers electronic resource collection available to entrepreneurs and to 30 regional access partners. CBSCs help entrepreneurs with business questions regarding their own communities. The Canada/New Brunswick Business Service Centre organized training sessions in 19 Community Access Centres to build local on-site awareness of CBSC's Web-based business resources. The Canada/Yukon Business Service Centre and Service Canada joined forces to provide one-stop access to federal and territorial information on programs and services. The CBSCs have completed four successful pilots of an innovative service enhancement called Talk to Us!, which integrates the telephone and the World Wide Web to help business clients find the right information. Particularly useful to rural entrepreneurs, Talk to Us! provides personalized service right in the community. The pilot was tested in Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick in 2000–2001. More than 500 early users clicked on the Talk to Us! button at the CBSC Web site http://cbsc.org and more than 80 per cent felt the service greatly enhanced their ability to find the information they need. Aboriginal Business Service Network A key part of the Aboriginal Business Development Initiative, the Aboriginal Business Service Network (ABSN) builds on the structure of existing CBSCs, tailoring the services to meet the unique requirements of Aboriginal clients. The network of CBSCs has established 72 service network partnerships in communities with significant First Nations and Métis populations. Each ABSN site has access to a core resource collection geared to Aboriginal people. A national ABSN toll-free number (1-877-699-5559) and an Internet site http://www.cbsc.org/absn provide one-stop access to business information. Public Works and Government Services CanadaThe Government of Canada made a commitment to make Canada "the most connected country in the world." Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) leads the development, operation and improvement of systems that deliver information to the public. It also continues to provide public access to the Government of Canada by improving traditional technology routes, call centres, and in-person services such as Service Canada access centres. Most recent figures indicate that 1.3 million calls have been made to 1 800 O-Canada, and 468.2 million hits have been received on the Canada Site. About 38.1 million pages of information have been requested from the Canada Site (an increase of 37 per cent in one year), with 30,390 e-mail messages received from Canada Site users (an increase of 57 per cent in one year). Canada Site* Public Access services for rural Canadians include the Government of Canada's primary Internet site http://www.canada.gc.ca. PWGSC leads the development of the site, in collaboration with the Treasury Board Secretariat's Canada Information Office. The site is a portal for the delivery of services, new initiatives and information products to Canadian citizens and organizations. This year, the site was redesigned to make navigation easier and information more accessible. Three new gateways (services for Canadians, non-Canadians and Canadian business) were introduced. The Service for Canadians Gateway* The Service for Canadians Gateway is a second-level portal that operates under the broader main-entry Canada Site portal. It has been designed and built to reflect a strong Internet presence for the government's programs and services, and to provide an innovative approach to making information useful and easy to find. Information is organized by subject of interest, user patterns on the Canada Site, feedback received through the site's on-line feature, and focus group sessions with citizens to determine precisely which information they most often seek. As part of the government's rural initiative, the Canadian Rural Partnership has created a specific cluster "Rural and Remote Services," which is a directory of services put together especially for rural and remote communities. The Web site is http://www.rural.gc.ca. 1 800 O-Canada* PWGSC continues to manage the national toll-free call centre. Operators answer queries from Canadians looking for information, programs and services, new initiatives and products, or redirect calls to the appropriate departments. Blue Pages Redesign PWGSC, in collaboration with provinces and municipalities, has established common government telephone listings that make it easier for citizens to find out about government services. The project, organized with the Treasury Board Secretariat, is a citizen-centered keyword listing for the combined federal/provincial/municipal government telephone directory services. Some directories have already been dispensed and a total of 152 directories will be distributed across the country by the end of 2001. __________ * (Note: On September 1, 2001, the Government of Canada launched Communication Canada to group together the communications coordination activities of Public Works and Government Services Canada with those of the Canada Information Office.) Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceInformation ResourcesThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detachments in rural and remote Canada serve as service centres for the municipal, provincial and federal government. Through their Web site http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca, the RCMP offers information about employment opportunities and links to learning materials. Young people receive access to federal government initiatives through the RCMP Web site created by and for youth at http://www.deal.org (English) or at http://www.choix.org (French). Treasury Board SecretariatThe Service Canada Initiative is a direct result of the government's commitment to improve public access to information and services. The initiative aims to develop one-stop access to a wide range of government information and services through integrated access channels that include telephone (1 800 O-Canada), Internet (Canada Site and Canadians Gateway) and in-person services. The Initiative is citizen-centered and built on partnerships with a range of federal departments and agencies, as well as community organizations and some provincial governments. A network of numerous in-person access centres was established for the pilot project to test a range of service delivery models. The initial priority in locating access centres for the pilot project was to improve services to rural and remote areas. The majority of access centres are located within communities of less than 25,000 people. More than 195,000 Canadians visited Service Canada Centres from December 1999 to March 2001. Most clients came to request a publication, seek personal assistance or visit the Canada Site. Frequent enquiries included questions about personal taxation, passports, employment programs and pensions, and business programs and services. Priority: Access to Financial Resources
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaFarm Improvement and Marketing Cooperatives Loans ActProducers and marketing cooperatives can get financial help through guaranteed government loans. The Farm Improvement and Marketing Cooperatives Loans Act offers credit to improve farm assets, strengthen production or improve financial stability, resulting in market expansion, farm innovation, value-added processing and environmentally sustainable farming. Under the Act, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada provides a loan guarantee to designated lending institutions. These loans can be granted for up to 80 per cent of the purchase price or appraised value of property. The Act provided more than $1.7 billion in loan guarantees during the last five years. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2001, 6,304 loans totalling $189 million were guaranteed under the Act. The majority of loans were issued in the province of Saskatchewan (more than 61 per cent), followed by Alberta and Ontario (12 and 11 per cent respectively). Many loans were issued in the grains and oilseeds sector, which comprised 48 per cent of the portfolio, followed by the beef sector with 29 per cent. Safety Net Programs In July 2000, a three-year framework agreement with the provinces was signed on farm income safety nets worth $5.5 billion. This agreement includes fall cash advances, the Net Income Stabilization Account Program, crop insurance, province-specific companion programs and the national Canadian Farm Income Program (CFIP), which provides assistance to Canadian producers who have experienced a sudden and severe drop in farming income due to reasons beyond their control. The CFIP cost is shared 60/40 per cent by the federal and provincial governments. A total of up to $2.2 billion has been made available to farmers over the 2000–2002 period. Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyFocussing on small-to-medium-sized enterprises, this program offers access to capital in the form of interest-free, unsecured, repayable contributions. It is designed to help set up, expand or modernize businesses. Non-profit organizations providing support to the business community may also qualify. During the 2000–2001 fiscal year, 933 enterprises received assistance under the Business Development Program (BDP) for a total of $123 million in authorized assistance. Of these, 110 were new businesses. It is expected that this direct support will result in the creation and maintenance of more than 6,400 jobs. Approximately 65 per cent of the BDP assistance is directed toward rural areas. Community Business Development Corporations Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency continues to support 41 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) located in rural communities throughout Atlantic Canada. This network provides access to lending and business counselling services to all rural Atlantic Canadians. During the 2000–2001 fiscal year, CBDCs issued over 1,100 loans from their community-based investment funds, totalling $29 million in support for business establishments and expansions throughout Atlantic Canada. It is anticipated that these loans will create or maintain 2,600 jobs. During this period, the CBDCs responded to more than 11,000 enquiries and information or counselling requests. Canada Mortgage and Housing CorporationCanada PostCanada Post has teamed up with several of the country's financial institutions to offer rural and remote Canadians access to a wide variety of financial services.
Department of FinanceWith Royal Assent in June 2001, the legislation contains measures to meet the needs of rural and remote consumers. The legislation strengthens the credit union movement, and requires banks to provide notice of branch closures and to consult with affected communities. Through lower minimum capital requirements, Bill C-8 encourages new entrants into Canada's financial services sector. This will make it easier to create smaller banks with a regional or community focus. Rural and remote Canadians will also benefit from other consumer protection measures. Environment CanadaEnvironment Canada's community funding program EcoAction provides financial support to community groups for projects with measurable, positive results on the environment. The program is available to environmental groups, Aboriginal groups and First Nations councils, service clubs, associations, and youth and seniors' organizations. During the last fiscal year, community groups implemented 182 projects valued at more than $19 million, with government assistance of approximately $6 million. Operation Clean-up 2000 The tributaries of the Saint-François River run through the rugged green valleys of the Sherbrooke region in Quebec, winding their way through communities that depend on them for recreation and quality of life. The tributaries have long been a focal point of development, which resulted in the accumulation of garbage and trash on their banks. Through EcoAction and with the support of Olympique Métal and the City of Sherbrooke, the community group Action Saint-François mobilized 225 volunteers who worked several weekends to make their community a cleaner place. The volunteers collected a total of 30 tonnes of garbage, which was sent to disposal and recycling facilities. Farm Credit CanadaPassed in June 2001, The Farm Credit Canada Act allows FCC to gradually implement a number of changes that will make programs more flexible to meet the needs of rural and remote Canadians. The new act will allow FCC to provide financial services to all farm-related businesses on the input or output side of primary production, provided that they benefit primary producers. FCC will also be able to offer a range of business management services across rural Canada. The Corporation will have the ability to extend lease and equity financing to producers and farm-related businesses, either directly or in partnership with others. Developing Aboriginal Business According to the latest census, about 65 per cent of Aboriginal people in Canada live in rural areas, and 68 per cent of them are under 30 years of age. This is the fastest growing demographic group in rural Canada. Agriculture can enhance the livelihood and economic growth of Aboriginal peoples and communities. FCC has established an Aboriginal business function, which contributes to the financing of Aboriginal agriculture. Industry CanadaThe Canada Small Business Financing Act facilitates asset-based debt financing for up to $250,000 for the start-up or expansion of small-and medium-sized enterprises with annual revenues of up to $5 million. A network of 1,500 private-sector lenders offers access to the program in all provinces and territories. The Government of Canada covers 85 per cent of the net losses incurred by lenders on defaulted loans. In the last fiscal year, 17,667 small business loans totalling $1.351 billion were made under the act. Borrowers anticipate that these small business loans will create an estimated 3.1 new jobs for each loan, for a total impact of 55,238 new jobs across Canada. The industry sectors taking advantage of the loans were mostly accommodation, food and beverage services, and retail trade. Canada Community Investment Plan The Canada Community Investment Plan (CCIP) is a five-year partnership program that helps 22 non-metro communities to improve local entrepreneurs' access to risk capital. Examples of the best practices and lessons learned by the CCIP demonstration projects are provided on-line to help others operate an investment facilitation service for their fast-growth small and medium-sized enterprises, and to help entrepreneurs become investor-ready. CCIP is a grassroots program and the investment facilitation strategy developed by each community represents the unique needs of the community. As of June 2001, these strategies have helped 297 small and medium-sized enterprises to obtain about $170 million in risk capital from private investors and non-federal sources. As a result of this injection of capital, these firms expect to create more than 2,500 new jobs. The ratio of private dollars invested per dollar provided by the government/community partnership is now over 14 to 1. Aboriginal Business Canada Under direction from the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board, Aboriginal Business Canada (ABC) provides business services, information and financial support to Aboriginal entrepreneurs in all regions of Canada, including rural areas. It concentrates its support on small businesses and focusses on Aboriginal youth entrepreneurship, innovation, trade and market expansion, Aboriginal tourism and strengthening Aboriginal financial organizations. The program objectives are to increase the number of viable Aboriginal businesses, leading to increased employment, income and productivity, and to improve leveraging of funding from non-government sources for projects proposed by ABC clients. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2001, ABC invested $30 million in 1,079 business projects under its strategic priorities and assisted 660 clients. Contributions to clients are about $30,000 per project. As well, these businesses have contributed significantly to job growth. The program is seeking to increase investments in Aboriginal economic development, including business development. These investments are the key to building self-reliance and improving the quality of life for Aboriginal people. Western Economic DiversificationThe Western Economic Diversification contribution of $3 million to the Alberta Indian Economic Developers Network and the Council of Aboriginal Native Development Officers supported the provision of computers and training to more than 400 Aboriginal Community Economic Development Officers in western Canada. Priority: Access to Health Care
Health CanadaThe Canada Health Infostructure Partnership Program is a two-year, $80-million, shared-cost, incentive program announced on June 12, 2000. It is aimed at supporting collaboration, innovation, and renewal in health care delivery through the use of information and communication technologies. It will invest in model implementation projects in two strategic areas: telehealth and electronic health records. Approximately 30 projects are funded across Canada, of which 17 are directly or indirectly related to rural health concerns. About $49 million supports projects that will improve access to medical care in rural and remote areas. Areas covered include remote screening for diabetic complications for First Nations people living on reserves in Alberta, as well as patient information available remotely to homecare workers in Quebec. The program has also supported the provision of telemedicine services in over 30 disciplines to 47 northern Ontario communities, along with tele-psychiatry using video-conferencing to access remote communities in Ontario and British Columbia. The telehealth network links remote communities in Nunavut, and is connected to referral centres in the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario. Health Infostructure Support Program Completed on March 31, 2001, this $10-million cost-shared contribution program was designed to support efforts to test and assess the use of new information technologies and applications through pilot projects in areas such as public health, health surveillance, pharmacare, First Nations health, homecare and telehealth. Six projects, totalling $1.3 million, had a direct impact on rural health care. These projects included homecare for terminally ill patients in rural Prince Edward Island using video-conferencing for ongoing monitoring. Rural and Remote Health Innovations Initiative This two-year, $11-million program was designed to help address the health concerns of rural citizens and communities, with an emphasis on access to health care. Over 75 national and regional rural health projects were funded through the program. Projects address a wide range of rural health concerns through innovative solutions, including: establishing a telephone call centre for the north to obtain health advice and information; developing a continuing education course for nurse practitioners in rural and remote areas; supporting a partnership between four Canadian universities to help improve care for terminally ill patients; helping rural communities support children with speech difficulties; and increasing awareness of the importance of early language development. Commission on the Future of Health Care Health Canada is continuing to support collaboration, innovation and renewal in health care delivery. The government has also formed the Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada to recommend policies and measures that will provide Canadians with a sustainable and universally accessible health care system over the long term. Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative The Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative is one of four components of the Canadian Diabetes Strategy—a-five-year, time-limited strategy to help prevent and control diabetes in Canada. The Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative will allocate $58 million over the five-year period 1999–2004. The program is divided into two parts, each with a separate framework and funding formula: the First Nations On-reserve and Inuit in Inuit Communities (FNOIIC) program; and the Métis, Off-reserve Aboriginal and Urban Inuit Prevention and Promotion (MOAUIPP) program. All First Nations Canadians living on-reserve and in northern communities, and Inuit living in Inuit communities are the target populations for the FNOIIC program. All Métis, urban Inuit and off-reserve Aboriginal people are the target populations for the MOAUIPP program. The MOAUIPP process creates diabetes prevention and health promotion programs in the communities (care and treatment, and lifestyle support programs are part of the FNOIIC program only). As of June 8, 2001, 19 projects were approved for MOAUIPP, with another 20 expected to be approved in the near future. Industry CanadaThrough its telecommunications and economic development initiatives, FedNor supports new and innovative ways to improve access to healthcare services throughout rural northern Ontario. FedNor is a key partner in the development of "Smart Community" telehealth service initiatives in partnership with six First Nations communities in northwestern Ontario. Community Futures Development Centres often work with community partners to develop strategies for taking full advantage of these technologies to improve access to healthcare services. Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) provides hospital transportation services in remote communities where no other medical service provider exists and where medical help is distant. The RCMP also supports the Suicide Intervention Program and Victims Services Program, and offers referrals to family violence counselling and services. Priority: Access to Education
Canada Post and Human Resources Development CanadaRural Canadians feel that assisting the career development of young people in rural and remote Canada is imperative to improving quality of life. Canada Post partnered with Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) to test the feasibility of having Canada Post administer the CSLP for part-time students in rural and remote areas. Canada Post signed separate agreements with private business partners, Business Data Services Ltd. and EDULINX, to act as their agents. Approximately 500 Canada Post outlets provide identity authentication and certificate validation for the full-time student loan program. In British Columbia, Canada Post has joined forces with Business Data Services Ltd., which administers the student loan program. Acting as their agent, Canada Post performs identity authentication, certificate validation and distribution services for an estimated 50,000 students. The British Columbia government expects to issue about $19 million in loans this year. Industry CanadaSchoolNet provides First Nations schools with computers and software necessary to connect to the Internet. A network of regional help desks managed by First Nations people has been established to provide the technical support First Nations communities require to maintain Internet access. The objective of the initiative is to provide a telecommunications infrastructure, and to promote information and communications technologies to support skills development to effectively compete in the knowledge-based economy. This will accelerate the development of stronger communities, people and economies. First Nations SchoolNet has helped to connect over 420 First Nations schools, and 113 First Nations communities without schools, to the Internet. Many of these schools and communities are located in very remote areas across Canada. SchoolNet Network of Innovative Schools In collaboration with evaluation committees, SchoolNet identifies Canadian primary and secondary schools that have demonstrated the ability to successfully integrate information and communication technology. SchoolNet contributes $10,000 per year for up to three years to each school. These schools are selected to act as models and support others in increasing the use of information and communication technology in the learning community. The SchoolNet Network of Innovative Schools is entering the third year of a three-year pilot. As of September 2001, there were 85 schools participating in the network, which will contribute a total of $980,000 to 51 rural schools. Justice CanadaJustice Canada is helping the north to bring new legal expertise to the area. The Nunavut-based Akitsiraq Law School Society and the Faculty of Law at the University of Victoria began a law program in Iqaluit in September 2001. Justice Canada has worked closely with the University of Victoria/Akitsiraq Law School group, and expect that the students will continue their careers in the north to help Inuit communities meet their legal needs in a culturally appropriate way. Justice Canada is also funding the Carleton University Centre for Initiatives in Education. The Centre and Nunavut Arctic College will offer the first year of a three-year Nunavut Bachelor of Arts pilot project in Iqaluit, September 2001. Justice Canada is also providing financial assistance for the training of justices of the peace, legal interpreters, court workers and for other positions in the Nunavut courts. Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police actively supports crime prevention programs and education initiatives delivered to community groups, parents and students in rural and remote communities in Canada. It also coordinates drug awareness programs. Priority: Opportunities for Rural Youth
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaThe Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy includes the Science Horizons Program, which funds science and technology internships that are designed to help young graduates bridge the gap between education and employment through work experience in scientific and technological fields, and help them obtain longer-term employment. The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Science Horizons Program contributed $1.08 million to research projects that employ up to 200 recent graduates in agri-food science and veterinary medicine. Each project is eligible to receive a program grant of up to $12,000, which is matched by an industry sponsor. Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyOFB is a network of storefront, walk-in centres for aspiring young entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick where the first centre in the province was opened in Campbellton, September 2001. With a youth-friendly environment, these centres provide help with the "how to's" and "next steps," helping young people who are exploring entrepreneurship. These centres have attracted 2,600 clients and more than 15,000 visits. The centres took part in more than 35,000 presentations, workshops, seminars, tours and other activities. These activities generated 165 new business start-ups and helped to create 290 full and part-time jobs. I Want To Be A Millionaire In Prince Edward Island, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency provides support to the Central Development Corporation to deliver this program. The project is directed at young people 8-to-16 years of age, and provides hands-on experience in setting up and running a business. The program has enabled 87 young people in the past year, including those in rural communities, to learn how to plan and run a business. The Newfoundland (NF) Youth Ventures Program This program develops entrepreneurial skills in youth by supporting summer enterprises initiated by students. In the past year, the program expanded to 20 sites involving 390 youth. The success of the NF program emphasizes the government's commitment to provide knowledge, resources and expertise to enable rural and remote areas to become stronger over the long term. Young Entrepreneurs, ConneXion Seed Capital and Counselling Initiative Young entrepreneurs, including those in rural and remote regions, have benefitted from this government program designed to stimulate the development of small and medium-sized start-up businesses. ConneXion Seed Capital and Counselling helped to increase new business survival rates by providing access to business information and unsecured personal loans to entrepreneurs aged 18 to 29. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) provides up to $2,000 in counselling and training for each ConneXion loan applicant. To maximize access to this initiative in rural areas, ACOA entered into a third-party delivery partnership with the 41 Community Business Development Corporations located across Atlantic Canada. Canada Economic DevelopmentThe goal of the program is to reduce the migration of rural young people to major urban centres. The program is designed to help young local entrepreneurs develop their business plans within their communities. It provides entrepreneurs with technical assistance and management follow-up, and financial aid in the form of personal loans up to $15,000. The young entrepreneurs' enthusiasm about the program has not waned since its creation. The Youth Strategy Program has provided funding to 1,516 entrepreneurs, resulting in the launch or expansion of 1,244 businesses. More than $16 million was invested in entrepreneurship, generating total investments of $102 million in the Quebec regions. Canada Mortgage and Housing CorporationCanada Mortgage and Housing Corporation works in partnership with sponsor organizations to develop housing employment projects to meet specific community needs. The internship provides financial support towards the wages of First Nations or Inuit youth living on First Nations reserves and in Inuit communities. To be eligible, the young people must be 17-to-29 years of age. Farm Credit CanadaFarm Credit Canada (FCC) invests not only in agriculture, but also in the people who make up rural communities. Again this year, FCC was proud to partner with the Canadian 4-H Council to offer young rural Canadians the opportunity to win scholarships enabling them to pursue post-secondary education. Through the scholarship program, the FCC can help young people become tomorrow's community leaders. Human Resources Development CanadaRural youth dialogues were organized in Vernon, Castlegar, Houston, Port Hardy/Port MacNeil, Prince Rupert, Quesnel, Fort Saint John and Salt Spring Island, to better identify concerns and issues of rural youth in communities across British Columbia. The dialogues concluded that young people want better access to education and work in their communities. They also want to contribute to their communities in a positive way through involvement in youth councils and youth projects. A report detailing the results of the dialogues is available on the Web at http://www.communityfutures.ca. Youth Employment Initiative (Manitoba) The funding for this initiative was provided through Human Resources Development Canada. The project was managed and supervised by the sponsoring agency, Southwest Manitoba Métis Federation Inc., a non-profit organization that provides internal services and programs to meet the needs of its 2,600 members. The participants named the project Team H.O.P.E. (Heros Of a Positive Environment). The focus of the project was to provide groups of 12 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal at-risk youth with different employment experiences. The project took place over a 25-week period. Indian and Northern Affairs CanadaThe Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy helps First Nations and Inuit youth acquire the skills and experience they need to participate in the labour market, and to make the transition from school to work. During the 2000–2001 fiscal year, the government invested $24 million, creating more than 24,000 opportunities for First Nations and Inuit youth. Industry CanadaFedNor's Youth Internship Initiative provides financial support to northern Ontario youth allowing them to gain work experience in the areas of business and economic development. The Community Futures Development Corporations in northern Ontario have targeted their investment and development strategies toward youth. National DefenceThis dynamic and structured program is offered free of charge to all rural and urban young people between 12 and 18 years old in Canada. The CCM aims to develop attributes of leadership, good citizenship and mutual respect in youth. Cadets may participate in sailing and seamanship activities with Sea Cadets, hiking expeditions and rappelling with Army Cadets, and flying and gliding exercises with Air Cadets. Successful cadets are eligible for financial scholarships, provincial and international exchanges, and other advanced training courses. More than 55,000 young Canadians, located in more than 1,100 communities across the country, benefited from the program during the 2000–2001 academic year. Nearly half of them attended one of the 28 Cadet Summer Training Centres, most of which are located in rural areas. The Junior Canadian Ranger Program The program offers free, community-based activities for young people living in remote and isolated communities. It improves the participants' self-esteem, teaching them how to handle increased responsibility, and encourages participants' interest in and understanding of their communities. The program is open to anyone 12 to 18 years of age living in remote and isolated communities across Canada. There are more than 2,000 Junior Canadian Rangers in 73 communities to date. Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Auxiliary Constable Program provides work-related experience to youth in rural and remote Canada. The RCMP also offers cadet recruiting or referrals and RCMP volunteering opportunities in all detachments. Through its National Youth Strategy, the RCMP offers a co-ordinated local detachment response to issues facing rural and urban youth. Transport CanadaThrough practical work experience and mentorship, Transport Canada's Prairie and Northern Region working group is helping northern Aboriginal youth to develop the skills necessary to enter the field of aircraft maintenance engineering. Working group members include Transport Canada employees, northern air operators and educational institutions. Participation in career fairs in Alberta and the Northwest Territories has also helped to develop an awareness of education and employment opportunities in rural and remote areas. The career fairs are very popular, attracting more than 1,500 rural and urban youth. Priority: Leadership and Community Capacity Building
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaThe $60 million-per-year CARD fund was created in 1995 to foster the increased long-term growth, employment and competitiveness of Canada's agricultural and agri-food industry and agricultural rural areas. By providing the skills and knowledge necessary to become more competitive, CARD assists the sector in adapting to structural changes and capturing market opportunities. Programs and projects are delivered through both national programs and industry-led adaptation councils in each territory and province. Creating partnerships and new alliances among industry groups and between industry and government is a key feature of many CARD-assisted projects. CARD's six adaptation priorities, determined in consultation with industry, include:
CARCI's objective is to enhance the viability of agricultural rural communities, particularly those undergoing change as a result of adjustment in the agricultural sector. CARCI's projects are aimed at improving the capacity of regional rural organizations to develop responses to agricultural community issues. Funding for CARCI is provided under the CARD Fund and totals $9.3 million over the next three years. Canadian Farm Business Management Program (CFBMP) The CFBMP is a partnership among the Canadian agricultural industry and the federal, provincial and territorial governments. The program is designed to upgrade the farm business management capacity of Canada's farm managers, leading to an enhanced ability to compete more effectively in domestic and international markets, and to an improvement of the financial viability of farm operations. The CARD Fund provided $15 million in funding to this program. Farm Debt Mediation Service (FDMS) Insolvent farmers and their creditors can get help with mediation services, pursuant to the Farm Debt Mediation Act and its regulations. FDMS can help parties arrive at a mutually satisfactory arrangement. Insolvent farmers who apply to FDMS receive a stay of proceedings or a financial review and mediation. Eligible applicants include insolvent individuals, corporations, partnerships, co-operatives, and other associations or persons engaged in farming for commercial purposes. FDMS offices across Canada received 687 applications in the 2000–2001 fiscal year. Of the 487 applications that received a financial review and mediation, 392 resulted in a signed arrangement between the farmer and creditors, and 95 resulted in no arrangement between the parties. Farm Consultation Service (FCS) The FCS is confidential financial management counselling to farmers, with an emphasis on future planning, managing change and maximizing profits. For a $100 fee, eligible farmers consult with a qualified financial manager who provides a financial review of the farmer's affairs, identifies problems and proposes alternatives. When the farmer chooses a course of action, the consultant helps with the development of a two or three-year operational plan. FCS offices received applications from 786 farmers in the 2000–2001 fiscal year. Out of 632 completed applications, 618 farmers received a financial review statement and a two-to-three-year operational plan, while 14 others received a financial review and statement. A number of programs and projects have been approved under the CARD II Human Resource Capacity-Building priority which include the Aboriginal Farm Business Management Program, the Canadian Young Farmers' Forum, the Canadian 4-H Council, the Canadian Agricultural Safety Program and farm women initiatives. In addition, under the Rural Development priority, CARD II is funding the Co-operatives Initiative entitled Agricultural Adaptation: A Co-operative Approach. Pilot Projects Initiative The Canadian Rural Partnership Pilot Projects Initiative funds creative approaches to community development in rural and remote communities. At a national level, the initiative provides a total of $12 million in funding over four years. Approximately $9.8 million has been approved in the first three years, for a national total of 239 projects. The Pilot Projects Initiative in the 2000–2001 fiscal year supported 100 projects, with total funding of $2.96 million. The Pilot Projects Initiative fosters entrepreneurial spirit in rural communities and supports Canadians living in rural and remote communities as they pursue creative, community-based responses that promote self-sufficiency and independence. The projects are extremely diverse, ranging from youth and Aboriginal development to environmental conservation programs. On Manitoulin Island in northern Ontario, for example, funding is being used to enable young people to complete their high school diplomas at home, through the use of technology-based distance-learning and other tools. Another example is a pilot project in the Powell River region of B.C., where the project funding is bringing together First Nations groups, aquaculture organizations and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in an effort to create sustainable abalone fish farms and to begin rebuilding this depleted fish stock. Citizenship and ImmigrationThese programs have provided a steady stream of entrepreneurs, investors and self-employed individuals interested in operating rural enterprises in Canada. To be a business immigrant, applicants must meet the selection criteria of the business immigration category. For information, contact the departmental Web site at http://www.cic.gc.ca. Provincial Nominee Program This program provides participating provinces with the opportunity to nominate up to 150 individuals for immigration based on their skills and entrepreneurial assets that are required in various community economies. The program was used in Manitoba to help in the development of its agricultural community. Environment CanadaEcoAction encourages projects that protect, rehabilitate or enhance the natural environment, and build the capacity of communities to sustain these activities into the future. Projects require matching funds or in-kind support from other sponsors. Support is available to groups for up to a maximum of $100,000. Non-profit groups and organizations are eligible to apply to the EcoAction Community Funding Program. Eligible groups include community, environmental and Aboriginal groups, First Nations councils, service clubs, associations, and youth and seniors' organizations. With an annual budget of $5 million, the program has funded over 1,000 projects since its inception in 1995. Manitoba's Community Collaboration Project The Community Collaboration Project (CCP) is helping communities to explore and implement processes geared toward becoming resilient, healthy and sustainable. The project is a collaboration among communities, the Brandon University Rural Development Institute, and federal and provincial agencies that provide services and programs to communities. Participants include Health Canada, Environment Canada, Rural Secretariat (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada), Western Economic Diversification, Community Futures Partners of Manitoba, Manitoba Intergovernmental Affairs, and Manitoba Community Connections (Industry Canada). Since 1998, the CCP has initiated three pilot projects which include the Northern Vision Regional Round Table, the Southwest Regional Round Table and the Franco-Manitoba Community Collaboration Project. Atlantic Coastal Action Program With a network of 14 community-driven, watershed-based ecosystem initiatives located across four Atlantic provinces, the Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) helps communities define common objectives and plans for environmentally-friendly use of resources. The fundamental principle guiding the ACAP program is that local communities are the most effective proponents of positive action for sustainable development. Environment Canada contributes to project funding, while community stakeholders contribute resources through volunteer labour, in-kind contributions and financial support. Fisheries and Oceans CanadaThis strategy forms part of the Pacific Fisheries Restructuring Program. It is a five-year, $100-million resource rebuilding strategy aimed at conserving and protecting West Coast salmon and their habitat. The strategy consists of four key components which include the Habitat Conservation and Stewardship Program (HCSP), the Habitat Restoration and Salmon Enhancement Program, a new Strategic Stock Enhancement Program and a new, independently operated Long-Term Habitat Fund. A Stewardship Centre Web site has been established with staffing of 103 stewardship positions under the HCSP. Justice CanadaNational Strategy on Community Safety and Crime PreventionThe national strategy is investing in projects that address risk factors in the lives of people, including abuse, violence, poor parenting, and drug and alcohol abuse. It is directed at removing those personal, social and economic factors that lead some individuals to engage in criminal acts or to become victims of crime. The National Strategy has three components: the Safer Communities Initiative, the Promotion and Public Education Program and the National Crime Prevention Centre. During the fiscal year 2000–2001, the Safer Communities Initiative supported 189 crime prevention projects in rural and remote communities, with a total investment of $4.8 million. For more information on the National Strategy, please visit http://www.crime-prevention.org. The Aboriginal Justice Strategy The Aboriginal Justice Strategy provides 50 per cent of funding to 89 community-based justice programs, serving 298 Aboriginal communities across Canada. The strategy supports alternative justice programs in the areas of mediation, diversion and community sentencing. These programs encourage and empower Aboriginal communities to take greater responsibility for the administration of justice, and to help reduce crime and incarceration rates in Aboriginal communities. Of the 89 current programs, 69 provide services to 232 rural and remote communities that are located more than 50 kilometres from the nearest service centre or are without year-round road access. The following are examples of rural and remote area programs that are funded by the Aboriginal Justice Strategy: Atikamekw Communities, Quebec – Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw Youth Justice Initiative The Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw is developing a Youth Justice Initiative for the Atikamekw communities of Manouane, Obedjiwan and Weymontachie. The communities have a population of approximately 5,000. This initiative represents a culturally appropriate alternative to the mainstream child protection and young offender systems. Big Cove First Nations, New Brunswick – Big Cove Restorative Advisory Committee Since 2000, the Big Cove First Nations of New Brunswick has been developing an alternative justice program, overseen by a 15-member community justice committee. Members represent the full spectrum of internal agencies, services and programs, as well as community members, including elders, youth and women. National DefenceThe Canadian Rangers are part-time reservists who provide a military presence in remote, isolated and coastal communities of Canada. Rangers are responsible for protecting Canada's sovereignty by reporting unusual activities or sighting, collecting local data of significance to the Canadian Forces, and conducting surveillance or sovereignty patrols. There are currently 3,500 Canadian Rangers in 144 communities across Canada. Western Economic DiversificationWestern Economic Diversification launched the CEDO in early 2001, providing $2.7 million to Western Canada Business Service Network organizations to develop community-based adjustment strategies, assess and develop responses to local development opportunities, and aid community economic development projects. The initiatives will build community capacity, create long-term economic impact, engage the community, and build community partnerships. Funding of up to $30,000 per organization is available to support eligible activities. Priority: Rural Infrastructure
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaAs a component of the Western Grain Transportation Adjustment Fund, CAIP is designed to assist the transition to an unsubsidized transportation environment by promoting greater diversification and value-added activities in western Canada's agri-food sector. Since the inception of the program, CAIP Saskatchewan has committed more than $25 million to upgrade or construct approximately 300 kilometres of provincial highways, $47 million to upgrade or construct 1,643 kilometres of municipal roads, and $1.7 million to 31 transportation planning studies. CAIP Manitoba has allocated approximately $3.5 million to roadway research and development, $14 million to infrastructure for value-added enterprises, $7.6 million to water infrastructure and $500,000 to human resource training. CAIP Alberta has committed more than $20 million to upgrade or construct provincial and municipal roads, approximately $5 million to water and wastewater projects, and more than $3 million to commercial technology projects. Prairie Grain Roads Program This new $175 million federal initiative was established to improve municipal grain roads and provincial secondary highways used for transporting grain in the Prairie provinces and the Peace River region of British Columbia. Combined with provincial and municipal contributions, the Prairie Grain Roads Program (PGRP) will generate about $334 million in road construction over a five-year period, from 2001-2002 to 2005-2006. Rural Community Forests A new tree planting project was initiated by the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at Shelterbelt Centre, Indian Head. This project helps smaller rural communities in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta improve the quality of life of its inhabitants, both human and wildlife. Thus far, 12 rural community forests have been established in various towns and villages in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. Regional Groundwater Initiative In partnership with more than 25 rural municipalities, the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration is continuing to support regional groundwater assessment studies in southern Alberta. The assessments provide an overview of groundwater resources in municipalities, including potential yield and quality, and map the location of regional aquifers. To date, 23 assessments have been completed in Alberta. A series of dams, diversion works and irrigation projects in southwest Saskatchewan serve six federal irrigation projects, seven provincial irrigation projects, and a number of private water agreements, providing reliable water for irrigation, livestock and community water domestic needs. In 2000–2001, Southwest Saskatchewan Water Supply Systems projects provided water to 464 irrigation patrons. Rural Water Development Program The Rural Water Development Program (RWDP) enhances the viability of agricultural areas in the Prairies by promoting and supporting sustainable development, and protecting water resources. Typical activities assisted under this program include the planning, investigation design and construction of water infrastructure. The RWDP provides technical information and $5.6 million annually to rural residents to plan and develop reliable water supplies that support economic or environmental sustainability. The RWDP provided assistance to about 4,000 rural residents, 1,400 farm operations and 20 businesses in 2000. Canada Mortgage and Housing CorporationAssistance is available to First Nations to build or purchase suitable, adequate and affordable rental housing on reserves. The assistance is in the form of subsidies, financing the difference between eligible project expenses and project revenues. Emergency Repair Program The program helps eligible rural and remote homeowners repair their homes. It covers urgent repairs to heating systems, chimneys, doors and windows, foundations, roofs, floors, plumbing and other essential repairs. Non-repayable contributions to carry out emergency repairs are available to homeowners living in rural and remote areas off-reserve. Under this program, 80 per cent of nation-wide funding is targeted at Aboriginal peoples. Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence Program One-time, non-repayable contributions of up to $2,500 are available for on-and-off-reserve projects that make it easier for seniors to continue living in their own homes. Applicants who are 65 and older, and whose household income is less than the maximum established for their area, may apply. Shelter Enhancement Program Capital contributions are available both on and off reserve to groups operating shelters for women and their children, and youth who are victims of family violence. These contributions are dedicated to repairing and upgrading the existing facilities or the construction of new units. The CMHC contributions are in the form of forgivable loans. Housing Research and Information Transfer—Healthy Housing Based on more than a decade of research (by CMHC and others) into many aspects of housing and sustainable development, Healthy Housing promotes the health of its occupants while protecting the environment and maintaining affordability. Completed in 2000, the Eagle Lake First Nations Healthy House in Ontario is one of five examples of innovative solutions to housing durability, costs, water quality and safety for northern and remote locations. Canadian Environmental Assessment AgencyEnvironmental Assessment is an important planning and decision-making tool that allows federal departments and agencies to identify the effects of their projects on the environment before they are undertaken. It can help reduce risks and liabilities through early identification of potential environmental problems. Assessments help Canadians integrate society's environmental goals with its economic, social and cultural values. Under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, the federal government conducts 6,000 environmental assessments annually. Environmental assessments occur across Canada, and many involve rural areas. Environment CanadaMeteorological Service of Canada By providing accurate and accessible information on daily weather, water and ice conditions, the service contributes to the health and economic prosperity of Canadians. Annually, it issues roughly 14,000 severe weather warnings and 3,500 ice hazard warnings, and provides about 500,000 public weather forecasts, 200,000 marine weather forecasts and 400,000 aviation forecasts. Indian and Northern Affairs CanadaInfrastructure Canada is a six-year program aimed at improving rural and remote Canadians' quality of life through investments that enhance the quality of the environment and community infrastructure. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) is responsible for federal delivery of the Canada–Yukon Infrastructure Program Agreement. The Treasury Board Secretariat is responsible for the Infrastructure Canada Program, which has allocated $2.48 million to the Yukon. With contributions from territorial and municipal partners, the total infrastructure investment in the Yukon over the duration of the program could be up to $7 million. Industry CanadaSince northern Ontario is primarily rural and remote, the majority of FedNor funding initiatives and services provide direct support for the 11 Priority Areas of the Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada. FedNor provides a wide range of tools and services to encourage economic development and diversification in northern Ontario. FedNor invests in community economic infrastructure to stimulate growth and economic development in rural communities throughout northern Ontario. During the 2000–2001 fiscal year, 24 projects totalling $4.8 million dollars were approved. FedNor investments are often based on strategic planning carried out by the local Community Futures Development Corporation. Natural Resources CanadaIn cooperation with renewable energy industry associations and other partners, REDI develops market development strategies for renewable energy systems. In 2000–2001, 26 projects were completed under the initiative, involving $1.9 million in investments in renewable energy projects and almost $400,000 in REDI contributions. These projects include the installation of a solar wall for a recreation centre in Fort Smith, NWT, a solar wall for an elementary school in Yellowknife, NWT, a solar water heater for a demonstration home in Kahnawake, Quebec, a solar wall for an apartment building in Iqaluit, Nunavut, and a solar water heater for a municipal pool in Haines Junction, Yukon. Energy Sector – Ontario and Nova Scotia Natural Resources Canada continues to promote the adoption of energy-saving technologies and processes. In the residential sector, the target of 10,000 house retrofits for the 2000–2001 fiscal year has been exceeded, and 12,132 existing houses were evaluated and labelled under the R-2000 program. Of all R-2000 homes certified in Ontario, 73 per cent were built in rural communities. In addition, 65 new R-2000 homes were registered in Nova Scotia. In the businesses and institutional sector in the 2000–2001 fiscal year, the Commercial Building Incentive Program contributed $2.5 million to 58 projects, many of these in remote and northern locations, such as restaurants in Slave Lake and Fort McMurray, schools in Aboriginal communities and an eco-tourism lodge in Moose River where it empties into James Bay. Public Works and Government Services CanadaPublic Works and Government Services Canada continues to help clean up contaminated sites as well as upgrade and expand diverse community infrastructure and services, including schools, and water and sewage facilities. Transport CanadaThis program assists eligible airports with the financing of capital projects related to safety, asset protection and operating cost reduction. Since its inception April 1995, ACAP has assisted 122 airports through 240 projects. For the period April 1, 2000 to March 31, 2005, the ACAP budget is $190 million, an average of $38 million per year. Maintaining Air Service to Small Communities When Transport Canada approved Air Canada's acquisition of Canadian Airlines, it was in part contingent upon the airline's commitment to the federal government that for a three-year period it would continue air services to all communities previously served by Canadian Airlines and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. This commitment was incorporated as amendments to the Canada Transportation Act and came into effect in July 2000. Air Canada continues to fully meet this commitment by maintaining services to 69 communities across the country mostly served by its regional and affiliated carriers to the benefit of many rural and remote localities. Port Programs and Divestiture As part of the National Marine Policy, Transport Canada Port Programs and Divestiture is transferring ownership and responsibility for its regional ports to local communities. Many rural communities are better placed to manage these facilities in the best interests of the local community. As of September 30, 2001, a total of 411 of the 549 public port sites had been transferred, demolished or had their public harbour status terminated. Highway Funding Agreements Canada has a large network of roads and highways, with 1.4 million kilometres of roads connecting communities all across Canada. Although highways are under provincial/territorial jurisdiction, Transport Canada supports the provinces' and territories' efforts to have the safest, most efficient and tourism-friendly roads by assisting them with highway improvements through cost-shared financial contribution agreements. The Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program, the most recent contribution program, has allocated $600 million for highway-related improvements. Treasury Board SecretariatInfrastructure Canada is the municipal component of a six-year physical infrastructure program. The Government of Canada is investing more than $2 billion, and with investments from provincial/territorial, municipal and private sector partners, it will generate $6 billion in infrastructure funding, more than $427 million of which will be available for infrastructure improvements in rural and remote Canada. Priority: Economic Diversification
Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaAt their June 2001, Whitehorse meeting in the Yukon, federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Agriculture reached an agreement that sets out a vision for Canadian agriculture to be the world leader in food safety, innovation and environmental protection. The agreement represents a significant redefinition of federal–provincial collaboration in agriculture. The Agricultural Policy Framework calls for a broad approach to managing the risks in Canadian agriculture, through an integrated approach to on-farm food safety, protection of the environment, farm income safety nets, and innovation and renewal of the agricultural sector. The objective is to use our science, food safety and environmental efforts to brand Canada in international markets as a safe, innovative, environmentally responsible producer of agricultural goods. Being environmentally responsible and producing safe food will continue to ensure the sustainability of the natural resource base on which the sector and many rural communities depend. Innovation, through areas such as life sciences, has the potential to bring more value-added production and investment to rural areas, and new products and markets for industry. Canadian Adaptation and Rural Development (CARD) Fund The $60 million-per-year CARD Fund was created by the Government of Canada to foster the increased long-term growth, employment and competitiveness of Canada's agricultural and agri-food industry, and agricultural rural areas. CARD supports change by assisting the sector in adapting to structural changes, and capturing market opportunities by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to become more competitive. Matching Investment Initiative The Matching Investment Initiative (MII) stimulates economic activity, creates job opportunities and strengthens industry's position in global markets. Many of the project results provided immediate benefits in rural communities. In fiscal year 2000–2001, the MII provided $29.7 million in matching funds for 975 projects. MII projects have provided new knowledge, new products and production methods, new markets and increased sales, primarily within rural communities. MII is partially funded by CARD ($27.5 million in 1999–2003). Support for Co-operatives Co-operatives play a significant role in rural and remote areas by providing needed services, creating and maintaining local jobs, and taking a citizen-driven, community-based approach to economic development. The Co-operatives Secretariat of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada plays an ongoing coordinating role within government, liaising with the co-operative sector, supporting research, collecting and disseminating information, and acting as a centre of expertise. The Co-operatives Secretariat supports partnership projects between the federal government and the co-operative sector. One such partnership is the Co-operative Sector Initiative entitled Agricultural Adaptation: A Co-operative Approach, funded by CARD. To date, $500,000 has been provided to the co-op sector to examine critical barriers to sustained growth. The initiative also examines the development patterns of agricultural co-operatives in Canada to develop strategies that will allow the sector to compete and thrive in a changing agricultural environment. Some of the CARD national programs that have an impact on rural Canada include the Canadian Agricultural Rural Communities Initiative (CARCI), the Canadian Farm Business Management Program, the Farm Debt Mediation Service and the Farm Consultation Service. (A complete description of CARD programs can be found in the Leadership and Community Capacity Building section of this report.) Canada Economic DevelopmentThe Regional Strategies Initiative (RSI) of Canada Economic Development (CED) develops and implements strategies and action plans, which promote a social and economic environment that will reinforce the assets and competitive advantages of the Quebec regions. The RSI program supports major initiatives that are likely to have a strategic impact on the regional economy. As of March 31, 2001, 167 permanent jobs had been created or maintained by this initiative. Outaouais RSI In April 2000, CED announced the implementation of a RSI for the Outaouais region. Under the banner Fine-tuning Our Rural and Urban Partnerships, the Outaouais RSI action plan provides, among other things, an investment of $1 million to promote the expansion of entrepreneurial activities in a rural setting, and boosts economic activity in rural areas in the Outaouais region by building on local human and material resources. Bas-Saint-Laurent RSI In April 2001, CED announced that it would renew the RSI for the Bas-Saint-Laurent Rural Enterprises component, and contribute $1.5 million to the program over the next three years. The initiative was launched in 1997, with a goal to encourage the growth of small businesses in rural areas. It puts particular emphasis on the development of technological and niche products and services. As of March 31, 2001, 167 permanent jobs had been created or maintained thanks to this initiative. Indian and Northern Affairs CanadaCEDP assists First Nations in identifying economic priorities, and helps plan business opportunities by providing funding for more than 500 Community Economic Development Organizations (CEDOs). First Nations and Inuit communities utilize CEDOs to receive development advisory services, economic development planning services, and assistance in accessing a range of federal government programs and services. Contributions from CEDP provided 557,137 training days to 15,499 First Nations, Inuit and Innu citizens, and supported 1,112 business expansions. This created 2,321 jobs and assisted 1,244 individuals in creating new business that resulted in additional 2,390 new jobs. Major Business Projects Program The program assists business start-ups or expansions that offer significant benefits to the community. It is designed to strengthen the economic development of First Nations, Inuit and Innu communities through improved access to economic opportunities, both on-and-off-reserve. In the Northwest Territories, contributions were provided for the construction and operation of two drilling rigs. More than 60 employment opportunities will be created by these initiatives, and employment spin-offs are expected in such areas as trucking, camp catering, construction, mechanical maintenance, fuelling, supplies and services. Resource Access Negotiations Program The program helps First Nations, Inuit and Innu communities enhance employment and business benefits from resource-based opportunities. Consistent with community needs and the principles of sustainable development, it strives to operate in an environmentally responsible manner. The most recent total program commitments were $38.35 million, supporting 1,210 projects. Benefits included 287 part-time fixed-duration jobs, 279 full-time fixed-duration jobs, 219 part-time permanent jobs, 344 full-time permanent jobs, $46.9 million in contracts, 293 persons trained and 40 business start-ups. Industry CanadaThe Community Futures Program supports community economic development by assisting communities to develop and diversify through strategic community planning, business services and access to capital. It provides operating funds and investment capital to 52 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) in Ontario. The CFDCs are federally funded, non-profit, community-based economic development corporations that provide financing to rural small businesses. The 236 CFDCs, located in and serving most rural areas, provide small businesses and would-be entrepreneurs with counselling, mentoring, technical advice, and access to financing through loans or loan guarantees. During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2001, Ontario CFDCs invested a total of $45,738,231 in 1,148 businesses and provided business counselling to 661 businesses. Together, the CFDCs investment and business counselling activities assisted 1,809 existing or new businesses, created or maintained 5,449 jobs and leveraged $51,751,583 in additional investments from other sources. During 2000–2001, through the Community Futures Program, FedNor contributed approximately $15 million to support community economic development and small business in northern and rural communities in Ontario. Through a network of 90 CFDCs, Western Economic Diversification provided 11,419 loans for a total value of $271.6 million, and created and maintained 32,766 jobs across the four western provinces. Natural Resources CanadaModel Forests are local, non-profit partnerships of volunteer representatives from all levels of government, Aboriginal communities, industry and academia. Their purpose is to develop and demonstrate innovative sustainable forest management practices. Bas-Saint-Laurent Model Forest In the Quebec project, private woodlot owners changed their land management practices to include the protection and conservation of wetlands, wildlife habitat, water quality and fish stocks. The program staff biologist brought together community groups promoting more sustainable forest management. These community members worked with technical experts to increase the land owners' awareness of the wetlands and habitat resources on their land and collaborated with each owner to devise new management practices to meet the owners' objectives and to conserve their ecologically important wetlands. Western Economic DiversificationWestern Economic Partnership Agreements are federal–provincial agreements that promote economic growth and employment opportunities in Western Canada. With $160 million in federal and provincial contributions over five years, agreements have been signed with British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Western Economic Diversification provides $20 million in funding to each western province. With matching provincial contributions, each agreement will invest up to $40 million to create new employment opportunities, support economic infrastructure and promote entrepreneurship. Projects cover a wide range of activities related to federal priority areas, such as innovation, urban development and small business development, and provide the agency, in partnership with provincial governments, with an avenue for addressing key rural issues and opportunities. For example, Western Economic Diversification and the provincial government of Manitoba each contributed $200,000 to enable 14 officially bilingual municipalities to develop strategic plans for economic revitalization and development. T-Rex Centre The discovery of Scotty the T-Rex has brought international attention to the community of Eastend, Saskatchewan. In 1994, archeologists uncovered the fossilized remains of this Tyrannosaurus rex at a site near this small community in southwestern Saskatchewan. Western Economic Diversification (WD), through the Canada–Saskatchewan Western Economic Partnership Agreement, assisted the development of this archeological discovery into a significant tourist attraction. WD contributed $600,000 toward the construction of the $2-million T-Rex Centre at Eastend. The centre now attracts 44,000 visitors annually and provides a valuable educational resource for schools in the surrounding area. The economic benefit of the $2-million investment is estimated to be $3.5 million per year of direct and indirect benefits to the community. Community Economic Adjustment Initiative To address the impacts of changes in the Pacific fishery, the federal government launched the $400 million Pacific component of the Canadian Fisheries Adjustment and Restructuring Program. The program attempts to restructure the commercial fishing industry by moving to selective harvesting; helping people and communities to adjust; diversifying fishing opportunities and further reducing the salmon fleet; and increasing efforts to protect and rebuild salmon habitat. WD's Community Economic Adjustment Initiative (CEAI) addressed the second component, helping people and communities adjust. In its two years of operation, the CEAI steering committee approved 102 community projects totalling $19,526,273, and leveraged more than $48 million in additional local, federal and provincial investments. Harbourfront Revitalization Project An example of the program's success can be seen in the Village of Alert Bay. This Vancouver Island community received a $250,000 non-repayable CEAI contribution towards the $800,000 harbourfront revitalization project. The project will become a key part of the community's plans to make Alert Bay more inviting to tourists. Priority: Partnerships for Community Development
Canada Economic DevelopmentThis was the first ever event in Quebec to present the programs and services of the Government of Canada for rural and remote Canada. Canada At Your Doorstep, hosted by the Eastern Townships Rural Team at East Angus, also demonstrated that partnerships between federal departments and rural Canada can help communities meet their needs more effectively. Connected to Their Communities Community Internet Access Centres (CIACs) Week in Bas-Saint-Laurent featured a full week of activities, with the participation of nearly 40 centres, to acquaint people from rural areas in Quebec with modern technology. The Bas-Saint-Laurent Rural Team and the Community Futures Development Corporations organized the event under the theme of Connected to Their Communities. Community Futures Program (CFP) – Quebec This program supports local economic development by helping rural areas promote and diversify their communities. In Quebec, CFP funds 56 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) in designated rural areas. The goal of CFDCs is to encourage communities to participate in managing their future, and to support job creation at the local level by providing technical and financial services. In March 2001, CED announced that it would renew its agreement with the CFDCs for a five-year period. Since September 2000, CFP has expanded its coverage to include all Quebec communities, thus making access to information on the Government of Canada programs and services available across the province. The total investment of $103 million over five years will help the CFDCs create and maintain 35,000 jobs, which will have a major impact on the development of local communities. Independent surveys are carried out every year to determine the satisfaction of CFDC clients and partners. The latest survey shows a 94 per cent level of satisfaction with regards to all services offered by the CFDC; 93 per cent of partner organizations believe that without the help of the CFDC they would not have been able to carry out their projects. Canadian HeritageThe partnership is a five-year initiative that provides complementary funding to other federal contributions to encourage the sustainable development of the official-language minority communities (Francophones outside Quebec and Anglophones in Quebec). The mandate is also to facilitate access to programs and services offered by federal organizations. Funding agreements target activities linked to arts and culture, economic development and tourism, human resources development, new technologies, and health and social services. Partnership agreements were signed with four federal organizations which included the Canada Council for the Arts, Health Canada, Industry Canada and Telefilm Canada. These agreements supported four projects in rural Canada, amounting to more than $263,000. Canada Mortgage and Housing CorporationThe Centre is comprised of a community-focussed, experienced team of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Its network of housing partnership experts helps communities make informed decisions about affordable housing development. Among its services are Proposal Development Fund Loans for community groups to carry out some of the pre-development work on projects that offer affordable housing for seniors, the disabled and low-income households, including First Nations, through innovative partnership arrangements. The Centre also facilitates the financing of projects through the CMHC mortgage insurance program. Fisheries and Oceans CanadaIn 2000–2001, Fisheries and Oceans Canada made a significant contribution to the success of two new local integrated coastal zone management initiatives in Quebec—the integrated management of the five inland bodies of water in the Magdalen Islands, and the integrated management of Gaspé Bay, in the Gaspé Peninsula. Active initiative participants include Aboriginal communities, inshore fishers, aquaculturists, environmentalists and the tourism industry. Other concerted initiatives in coastal zones are being pursued, including the integrated coastal zone management from Les Escoumins to the Betsiamite River on the Upper North Shore. Cooperation also continued on Cascapédia and Bonaventure Bay projects. Human Resources Development CanadaService delivery gaps were identified through the Ontario Seniors' Advisory Committee of the Canada Income Security Programs. The Reaching Out to Aboriginal Peoples project addresses these gaps in remote Aboriginal communities in northern Ontario. Project dollars from rural strategies funds were provided for Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) information displays in remote communities. The Income Security Program Branch of HRDC worked in partnership with the Kenora and Thunder Bay Human Resource Centres of Canada to complete the project in March 2000, while HRDC employees continue to provide service, develop local partnerships and capacity to assist residents with their benefits and applications. The federal government has paid over $1 million in benefits and HRDC staff have visited more than 100 communities. These payments reduce dependency on local funds. National DefenceThe reserve not only improves the readiness of the Canadian Forces by assisting them when called upon, but it also supports peacetime activities. Primary reservists are members of the Canadian Forces who usually serve on a part-time basis and are paid for their services. Throughout the country, 307 reserve units employ about 30,000 people, many from rural communities. They are divided into four elements: the army reserve (also known as the militia), the naval reserve, the air reserve and the communications reserve. Natural Resources CanadaWith unemployment rates reaching 80 per cent or more by the mid-1990s, the traditional fishing community of the Kitasoo First Nation saw forestry as their economic future. However, there were few band members with forest-related training or experience, and their reserve forests were too small to be economically self-sufficient. By forming partnerships with governments ($95,000 in funding from the First Nations Forestry Program, a joint Natural Resources Canada and Department of Indian and Northern Development program) and industry (Western Forest Products Ltd.), communities like Kitasoo can now actively participate in viable and sustainable long-term forestry ventures. In five years, the Kitasoo have secured access to timber, hired a community forestry coordinator, set up the Kitasoo Forestry Office and developed a community-driven, long-term forestry plan. Western Forest Products Ltd. has altered its harvesting plans in response to Kitasoo concerns. Earth Science Sector – Alberta Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) recognizes the challenges of delivering programs to widely dispersed populations in rural and remote Canada, and has launched a number of initiatives to enhance awareness and to inspire Aboriginals to enter disciplines that are expected to experience future workforce shortages. Through NRCan's Sustainable Communities Initiative, partnerships have been developed with First Nations communities to provide tools, practical support, information, contact networks and advice. In Alberta, NRCan has assisted the development of emergency response programs on the land of the Blood Tribe. The program is also supporting the identification of other land uses, mineral mining, oil and gas exploration to explore partnership opportunities to resolve issues affecting resources. Earth Sciences Sector – Northwest Territories Natural Resources Canada Legal Surveys Division has partnered with Aurora College and the School of Community Government in the Northwest Territories in a two-year Community Land Administration Certificate Program for Aboriginal land administrators in the Arctic. NRCan also provides training in legal surveying to Aboriginal communities to prepare them to provide technical and support services associated with land survey contracts. This cooperative program has led to partnerships with the School and the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs in the areas of environment and waste management. NRCan invested $300,000 in developing and supporting this program, which has been delivered to over 50 community land management officers. Other areas have expressed interest in the course, and it is now being expanded to include participants from the Government of Nunavut, Department of Community, Government and Transportation. Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police detachment in rural or remote communities is sometimes the only professional service provider, and is often asked to lead many community initiatives to improve social or economic conditions. Services provided include Victims Services, Aboriginal Liaison, Drug Awareness, Crime Prevention and Restorative Justice. Priority: Promotion of Rural Canada
Canadian HeritageCanadian Heritage Information Network is the electronic gateway to the museum community in Canada and beyond. It offers effective access to Canadian and international heritage information for public education and enjoyment, and for the collective benefit of Canadian museums through the following services: The Virtual Museum of Canada The Virtual Museum of Canada (which includes information from the Great Canadian Guide) provides rural museums and galleries with the opportunity to have a presence on the World Wide Web. The service provides Canadians with on-line information, in both official languages, on cultural institutions and attractions across Canada, as well as the stories and treasures they hold. Launched in March 2001, there are currently over 630 museums actively participating in the Virtual Museum of Canada. Museums across Canada, including museums in rural and remote areas, have received contracts totalling approximately $2.5 million to date. The Great Canadian Guide received approximately 3.2 million Internet hits last year. The Heritage Forum The Heritage Forum offers rural heritage professionals access to worldwide resources, including on-line courses and reference databases. Professionals—including staff from rural area museums—entered over 650 resources in The Heritage Forum to be shared with colleagues across the country. The Forum receives about 2.8 million hits each year. Artifacts Canada Artifacts Canada allows museums in rural areas to share collections information with museums across Canada. Over 170 Canadian museums, including many in rural areas, currently contribute collections information to Artifacts Canada, which receives around 1.2 million hits per year. The Centre for Exhibition Exchange The centre advances the development and movement of travelling exhibits in rural areas by bringing together borrowers and lenders to share information about available exhibits. The centre currently offers more than 100 exhibitions for circulation, and receives about 94,000 hits per year. Learning with Museums Learning with museums provides access to on-line educational resources to educators, students and parents living in rural or remote areas. Created by Canadian museums and heritage organizations, including those in rural areas, Learning with Museums currently includes more than 300 on-line educational resources. Parks CanadaParks Canada represents 25 of the 39 distinct natural regions of Canada in the national parks system, and during 2000–2001 advanced toward its goal of representing the 14 remaining regions. The economic impact of Parks Canada's national system was $1.75 billion, with 43,450 jobs for 2000–2001. Progress was made in establishing new national parks or national park reserves in the southern Gulf Islands in British Columbia, Wager Bay in Nunavut and the Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve, Newfoundland. Parks Canada – Major Initiatives Canada's national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas are symbols of our national identity, and are there for each of us to understand, appreciate and enjoy. Parks Canada has developed a communications strategy to reach and engage Canadians. In 2000–2001, more than 100 partners from the mountain national parks (Banff, Kootenay, Yoho and Jasper) and surrounding communities partnered in naming 2001 The Year of the Great Bear. The national historic significance of Grand-Pré National Historic Site of Canada in Nova Scotia will benefit from an innovative partnership with the Tauck Foundation, which has offered the Société Promotion Grand-Pré a matching grant of $120,000 (US) over three years to be used toward the new interpretation centre at Grand-Pré. Outreach Innovation Fund Parks Canada initiated the Outreach Innovation Fund, which dispersed $200,000 between ten projects involving local outreach and support for school curricula in all provinces from Newfoundland to Alberta. The participating parks and sites leveraged this money by contributing funds and finding partners so that the total value of the work carried out was $673,500. Statistics CanadaDuring the past year, Statistics Canada has continued to publish the Rural and Small Town Canada bulletin on its Web site. In total, 17 bulletins have been produced, nine in the last year. Recent rural topics have included employment, income indicators, housing conditions, youth migration and demography. The site also includes working papers on other rural topics such as agriculture, First Nations, defining rural in a geographical context, a geographic profile of manure production, and the distribution and concentration of livestock. Statistics Canada also publishes a wide variety of rural publications. A full list can be found at http://www.statcan.ca. Priority: Rural Telecommunications and the Use of the Information Highway
Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyThe Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency funded an awareness initiative that provided e-commerce seminars in rural communities in Atlantic Canada. It also supported the establishment of an Internet-based business information network (The Aboriginal Business Service Network) for Aboriginal Economic Development Officers in Atlantic Canada. Canada PostThe Community Access Program (CAP) provides rural, remote and urban communities with affordable public access to the Internet, creating new opportunities to communicate, learn and do business. Administered by Industry Canada, the original CAP project pilot was introduced in six post offices in Prince Edward Island in January 2000. It showed a high level of satisfaction with both customers and employees. Canada Post and the Government of Manitoba have partnered to install 24 Community Access (CAP-Manitoba) sites in rural communities. This is part of an agreement signed between the Government of Manitoba and Industry Canada. Industry CanadaBy partnering with provincial and territorial governments, municipalities, educators, libraries, schools and the private sector, the program has established public access to the Internet at over 8,800 locations. More than 5,500 of these are located in rural areas in Canada. A number of CAP sites in rural areas in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are involved in the Service Canada pilots designed to improve access to Government of Canada information and services. Smart Communities Program The program assists communities by creating opportunities for learning through the sharing of information, communication technology activities, experiences and lessons learned. It has helped to provide new business opportunities domestically and internationally for Canadian companies in the area of application and service development. Of the 12 recent demonstration projects, seven took place in rural communities. Voluntary Sector Network Support Program Voluntary Sector Network Support Program (VolNet) is designed to expand the technological capacity of the voluntary sector by providing access to computer equipment, Internet access and Internet skills development to help voluntary organizations further their missions. VolNet presently has 10,000 participating voluntary organizations, of which 8,800 are already connected and over 12,000 staff and volunteers received training. About 45 per cent of VolNet services recipients are in rural Canada. FedNor Telecommunications Support Through partnerships with non-profit organizations and private-sector suppliers, FedNor supports the development of telecommunications infrastructure and the development of new applications for the information highway. FedNor authorized more than $23 million in 374 projects in support of these activities. Community Futures Development Corporations continue to promote the use of telecommunications and the Internet as a communications tool throughout rural Ontario, and in most locations provide public access and support for users such as the Community Access Program, the Canada–Ontario Business Service Centres and Aboriginal Business Service Network sites. Natural Resources CanadaThe Canadian Model Forest Network recently launched the Socio-Economic Indicators for the Model Forest Network (SIMFOR), a Web site where visitors can map and compare forestry-related socioeconomic information for Canada's model forests. There are six indicators which include population, employment, income, education, poverty and real estate. SIMFOR is a national data set. This allows people to get a clear picture of the health of a community, and some of the issues affecting its long-term sustainability. Plans are underway to develop SIMFOR as a clearinghouse of socioeconomic information for each model forest by adding links to local publications, research journals and other relevant sites. Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police program http://www.deal.org offers space on its national Web site where communities can create their own local pages. This Web site is primarily for youth, but is also open to parents and educators. Western Economic DiversificationThe Aboriginal Services Kiosk is an Internet portal that provides information on Aboriginal programs, services and contacts in Saskatchewan at http://www.ASKSask.sk.ca/. It contains links to other relevant sites, features an events calendar, and has a directory of services and programs for Aboriginal people in Saskatchewan. The ASK Web site, which is the product of joint working groups represented by a variety of federal departments, has 1,385 listings in its directory, of which 453 are Canada listings and 932 are Human Services Directory (Saskatchewan) listings. The site has about 800 hits per month, and links to the national Aboriginal portal.
Public AccountabilityGovernment management practices have been traditionally more about process than results. The focus was on resources spent, activities and outputs. Although important, they did not give Canadians a complete picture of the relevance and effectiveness of programs and services being delivered. In 1995, the Government of Canada committed itself to implementing results-based management in all federal departments and agencies. Performance Measurement The Government of Canada is committed to reporting to Canadians on how it responds to issues in rural Canada. It is important to determine whether programs are achieving results that Canadians value. The government needs to know if it has made a difference in improving the quality of life. When a federal initiative is put in place, it is followed by a system to measure and report on performance. In this way, government reports on and is responsible for the actions it undertakes and how it uses public funds. Federal departments and agencies are now developing a cross-government performance framework for rural initiatives, linking actions to expected outcomes, practical indicators and relevant measurements. At an interdepartmental working session in March 2000, representatives of many government departments developed performance indicators for the 11 Priority Areas. In March 2001, workshop delegates reviewed and narrowed down the indicators under consideration to a manageable list, taking into account feasibility, meaningfulness and practicality. Examples include:
Interactive ProcessWhile government reached out to communicate with people in rural and remote Canada, it also listened. Citizens brought concerns directly to the Government of Canada through national, regional and local forums. As an example, the 2000 National Rural Conference in Magog-Orford, Quebec, gave rural citizens a chance to express their opinions to influence decision-makers on policies, programs and services. Government committed action on 54 issues raised at the conference, contained in the Rural Action Plan released April 26, 2001. The Rural Times, a quarterly tabloid newspaper issued by the Rural Secretariat, is an indirect conduit, providing articles, reports and valuable information on rural communities and their residents. Many rural Canadians have written articles for the publication, which is overseen by an advisory board of citizens from rural and remote communities. The Internet also offers rural citizens instant, direct, on-line opportunities to discuss concerns, through Web sites such as the Rural Secretariat's, among others. The Rural Fairs and Exhibits Program brings information on federal government programs and services to rural and remote communities. All this input and sharing of information helps government identify emerging issues and define a role for itself in addressing key rural concerns. Government to Citizens The Government of Canada demonstrated its commitment to Canadians living in rural and remote communities with its first Annual Report to Parliament on Rural Canada in May 2000, Working Together in Rural Canada. The Canadian Rural Partnership Web site at http://www.rural.gc.ca and the Pocket Directory of Rural Programs and Services, which contain information on government programs and services, are other examples of that commitment.
Supporting Local Solutions to Local Challenges"strive to ensure that, wherever possible, its actions and programs are coordinated to help build local solutions to local challenges." The Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada will continue to guide federal government intervention in rural and remote Canada to enhance the quality of life. The Rural Lens will apply to all new and renewed government initiatives and will include economic, social and environmental issues. Pilot Projects will continue to support innovative solutions to local challenges. These projects will strengthen the capacity of rural and remote communities to maximize their development potential and take advantage of opportunities. An evaluation of the first four years of project experience will take place in 2001–2002 to share lessons learned and improve future programming. Over the next three years, $9.8 million will be made available through the Canadian Agricultural Rural Communities Initiative to assist agricultural rural communities undergoing change. The Rural Dialogue helps the federal government better understand rural opportunities while providing a forum for rural citizens to learn from each other. By discussing options, governments and communities can make the best use of opportunities. Four rural conferences were held across the country at the local/regional levels. These conferences will feed into the second National Rural Conference in 2002, which will further define the federal government path in developing responses to the issues and challenges of Canadians in rural and remote communities. Communications is the key to increasing awareness of what the federal government has to offer rural Canadians and improving access to its programs and services. For example, through the Government On-Line initiative, the rural Web site at http://www.rural.gc.ca will be enhanced to facilitate access to information and rural government services in 2002. A rural policy agenda can help the Government of Canada respond more effectively to rural needs. It is committed to addressing issues in a results-oriented fashion. Specific approaches will focus on:
The Rural Secretariat will continue to lead the horizontal coordination of the rural file. The Interdepartmental Working Group (IWG) will maintain a key role. At the same time, the regional Rural Teams will continue helping communities address key rural issues through innovative collaborative ways of increasing access to government services and putting government resources to work for rural communities. Implementation of the Regional Rural Action Plans with "report cards" will be issued in 2002 to outline in detail the government response to the 54 areas for action identified at the 2000 National Rural Conference. An evaluation of the past four years of the Canadian Rural Partnership experience is underway to demonstrate progress in the working partnership with federal government departments, other levels of government, non-profit community organizations, the private sector and rural citizens. Through support of partnerships, the government continues to enhance community capacity building for long-term, sustainable growth. Through the continued application of the Rural Lens, and with input and direction from the Rural Dialogue, experience and momentum gained over the last few years is allowing the Federal Framework for Action in Rural Canada to achieve positive measurable results in 2001–2002.
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