Book 3 - Corporate documents: minister's transition book 2023, AAFC

Table of Contents

  • Governor in Council and Ministerial appointments

    At Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), two processes are used to make appointments: Governor in Council (GiC) and Ministerial.

    Governor in Council appointments

    GiC appointments are those made by the Governor General acting on the advice of Cabinet. An Order in Council is the legal instrument which, when signed by the Governor General, formalizes the appointment.

    GiC appointees play an important role in Canada by serving on commissions, boards, Crown corporations, agencies, and tribunals across the country. Within the Agriculture and Agri-Food portfolio, there are a number of GiC appointees at each of the following organizations: Farm Credit Canada (FCC), Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC), Canadian Grain Commission (CGC), Farm Products Council of Canada (FPCC), and the Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal (CART).

    Under the existing Privy Council Office (PCO) policy, formal selection processes are required for all leadership (heads of organizations) and supporting positions. These selection processes are jointly managed by PCO and the Department and require Cabinet approval and sign-off by the Governor General. AAFC works with the Minister in order to develop recommendations for appointments.

    The Agriculture and Agri-Food Portfolio currently has 32 GiC appointees. Decisions will be required to determine next steps for the following:

    • Chief Commissioner, CGC: Set to expire on December 17, 2023. PCO-led appointment process launched April 2023 in process.
    • Commissioner, CGC: Set to expire February 12, 2024.████████████████████████████████████
    • Chairperson, FCC Board of Directors: Set to expire on April 22, 2024.█████████████
    • Director, FCC: Two positions set to expire May 20, 2024, and one position that is vacant (June 1, 2022)
    • Member, CART: Set to expire on August 30, 2024.████████████████

    Please see the chart below for other GiC appointments, by organization, that will require action in the next 18 months.

    Ministerial appointments

    Ministerial appointments are made under the Minister's direct authority and do not require the approval of the Governor General. You are responsible for the appointment of board and committee members for four entities: Appeal Boards of Farm Debt Mediation Services (FDMS), the Eastern and Western Grain Standards Committees of the CGC, Inspectors for the six national agencies overseen by the FPCC, and the National Program Advisory Committee (NPAC), totaling just over 100 Ministerial appointments.

    Ministerial appointments that will require action in the next 18 months include:

    • Western Grain Standards Committees
      • The Western Grain Standards Committee is to be composed of 21 to 25 persons, including a AAFC Deputy Minister appointed member. An AAFC representative has been identified and the approval process commenced.
    • National Program Advisory Committee
      • Eleven members are set to expire on December 16, 2024.

    Governor in Council appointments by organization

    Organization Role Name Province Appointed Expiry date
    Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal Chairperson Emily Crocco Ontario December 15, 2022 January 17, 2028
    Member Geneviève Parent Quebec August 31, 2021 August 30, 2024
    Member Marthanne Robson Ontario December 14, 2021 December 13, 2025
    Member Patricia Lynn Farnese Saskatchewan December 13, 2021 December 12, 2025
    Canadian Dairy Commission Chief Executive Office Benoit Basillais Quebec July 4, 2022 July 3, 2026
    Chairperson Jennifer Hayes Quebec December 23, 2021 December 22, 2025
    Commissioner Shikha Jain Ontario September 15, 2022 September 14, 2026
    Canadian Grain Commission Chief Commissioner Anthony Douglas Chorney Manitoba December 18, 2020 December 17, 2023
    Assistant Chief Commissioner Patricia Rosher Manitoba February 15, 2021 February 14, 2025
    Commissioner Lonny McKague Saskatchewan February 13, 2021 February 12, 2024
    Farm Credit Canada President and CEO Justine Hendricks Ontario September 15, 2022 September 14, 2026
    Chairperson Jane Halford Alberta April 22, 2020 April 21, 2024
    Director Rita Achrekar Ontario May 21, 2021 May 20, 2025
    Director Michele Hengen Saskatchewan May 21, 2021 May 20, 2024
    Director James M. Laws Ontario May 21, 2021 May 20, 2024
    Director Bertha L. Campbell Prince Edward Island February 1, 2022 January 31, 2025
    Director Govert Verstralen Ontario February 1, 2022 January 31, 2025
    Director Laura C. Donaldson British Columbia February 1, 2022 January 31, 2025
    Director Sylvie Cloutier Quebec January 27, 2023 January 26, 2026
    Director Michael Tees British Columbia May 21, 2021 May 20, 2025
    Director Sylvie Chagnon Quebec May 21, 2021 May 20, 2025
    Director Vacant Vacant
    Farm Products Council of Canada Chairperson and Member Brian Douglas Prince Edward Island June 11, 2022 June 10, 2026
    Vice-Chairperson and Member Bonnie denHaan Ontario April 21, 2023 April 20, 2027
    Member Maryse Dubé Quebec April 30, 2021 April 29, 2025
    Member Samantha Haverkamp Ontario April 21, 2023 April 20, 2026
    Member Morgan Moore Manitoba June 19, 2022 June 18, 2024

    FPCC agency auditors

    The Farm Products Agencies Act (FPAA) accounts for the appointment of auditors by the GiC to annually audit the accounts and financial operations of each agency and submit a report to the agency, the FPCC, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

    Organization Role Name Province Appointed Expiry date
    Canadian Hatching Egg Producers Auditor Welch LLP Ontario June 10, 2021 December 31, 2025
    Canadian Beef Cattle Research, Market Development and Promotion Agency Auditor MNP LLP Alberta January 10, 2022 December 31, 2027
    Chicken Farmers of Canada Auditor KPMG LLP Ontario June 10, 2021 December 31, 2025
    Egg Farmers of Canada Auditor Ernst & Young Ontario August 23, 2020 December 31, 2024
    Turkey Farmers of Canada Auditor MacGillivray Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors Ontario August 23, 2020 December 31, 2023

    Ministerial appointments by organization

    Organization Role Name Province Appointed Expiry date
    Farm Debt Mediation Services Appeal Board (FDMS) Chairperson
    Western Region    		 Patrick Weatherald Saskatchewan December 1, 2021 November 30, 2025
    Chairperson
    Eastern Region    		 Jean-Denis Methot Ontario December 1, 2021 November 30, 2025
    Member
    Eastern Region    		 Janice Tait Prince Edward Island August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    Member
    Eastern Region    		 Kirk Jackson Quebec August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    Member
    Eastern Region    		 Christian S. Jacques Quebec August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    Member
    Eastern Region    		 Gary Martin Ontario December 1, 2021 November 30, 2025
    Member
    Western Region    		 Bill Zettler Manitoba September 1, 2021 August 31, 2025
    Member
    Western Region    		 Chris Bodnar British Columbia August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    Member
    Western Region    		 Aura Rose British Columbia August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    Member
    Western Region    		 Arthur Lange Alberta August 13, 2021 August 12, 2025
    National Program Advisory Committee (NPAC) Member Art Friesen British Columbia December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Heather Broughton Alberta December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Morgan Smallman Prince Edward Island December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Kenneth Bear Saskatchewan December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Tessa Walker Saskatchewan December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Richard Melvin Nova Scotia December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Sally Parsonage Manitoba December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Joan Sinclair Saskatchewan December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Marie-Pier Lefebvre Quebec December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Roland Michaud New Brunswick December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024
    Member Stephanie Slaman Ontario December 17, 2021 December 16, 2024

  • Parliamentary committees and business

    Parliamentary committees

    • Parliamentary committees examine chosen subject matter in greater depth than possible in the House of Commons (HoC) or Senate. Meeting in committee provides an opportunity for Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators to hear from academia, industry experts, stakeholders, and officials from all levels of government on topics of federal concern and to have these representations placed on public record. Committees may also explore the details of public policy and programs, legislation or issues related to its mandate. In most cases, following a committee's study, a report with a list of recommendations for the government is prepared and presented to Parliament.
    • Standing committees are permanent committees established by the Standing Orders of the House of Commons and comprised of MPs in proportional representation to party standings in the HoC. Membership changes occur as required.
    • Standing Senate committees are permanent committees established by the Rules of the Senate and comprised of Senators in proportional representation to party standings in the Senate. Membership changes occur as required.
    • The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food may be invited by a standing committee of the HoC or Senate to talk about the expenditures of the portfolio, government legislation or issues impacting the sector.
    • Once a standing committee has tabled a report, the government may be requested to prepare a formal response within 120 days, in the HoC, or 150 days, in the Senate, for tabling in Parliament. The Minister directs officials in the drafting of government responses to reports presented by standing committees. The Minister presents these proposals to Cabinet colleagues for approval and ratification before government responses are tabled in Parliament and made public.

    Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food

    • The Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food (AGRI) examines issues related to Canada's agriculture and agri-food industry. AGRI has the power to review issues related to the mandate, management, and operation of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Portfolio, legislation, expenditures and activities of portfolio organizations.
    • The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, when invited, appears before the Committee to support the work of AGRI. Typically the Minister, accompanied by the Deputy Minister and officials, will appear to support the Estimates process and government legislation, while portfolio and departmental officials are invited to appear to provide information to AGRI when it studies other topics.
    • AGRI will invite witnesses from across the sector representing a wide array of views so members can thoroughly examine each issue and make informed recommendations to the government. At the conclusion of a study, the Committee presents its report in the HoC and may request for the government to respond to its recommendations. Government responses are due within 120 days of the presentation of the report to the HoC (pursuant to House of Commons Standing Order 109).

    Studies undertaken during the 44th Parliament — 1st Session (November 22, 2021, to present)

    • Bill C-280, An Act to amend the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (deemed trust – perishable fruits and vegetables): From June 12 to 21, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on Bill C-280. It is expected that the Committee will report the Bill back to the HoC when it returns in September 2023.
    • Environmental Contribution of Agriculture: Resumed from the 43.2 Parliament, the Committee undertook a study on the Environmental Contribution of Agriculture from March 28, 2022, to June 19, 2023. It is expected that the Committee will finalize and present its report to the HoC when it returns in September 2023.
    • Food Price Inflation: From November 21, 2022, to June 5, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on food price inflation. A report was presented to the HoC on June 13, 2023. A government response was requested, and it is anticipated that it will be tabled on or before October 11, 2023.
    • Animal Biosecurity Preparedness: On May 3, 2023, the Committee began its study on animal biosecurity preparedness and has held two meetings on the subject matter thus far. It is anticipated that the Committee will continue its study when the HoC returns in September 2023.
    • Closure of the Olymel Processing Plant in Vallée-Jonction: From May 8, 2023, to June 5, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on the closure of the Olymel processing plant in Vallée-Jonction, Quebec. On June 7, 2023, AGRI sent letters to the Ministers of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to present its findings.
    • Global Food Insecurity: From June 6, 2022, to March 27, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on global food insecurity. A report was presented to the HoC on April 18, 2023. A government response was requested, and it is anticipated that it will be tabled on or before August 16, 2023 (summer tabling dates may impact this).
    • Ukraine Goods Remission Order: From November 28, 2022, to February 8, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on the Ukraine goods remission order. On February 1, 2023, AGRI sent a letter to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to present its findings.
    • Bill S-227, An Act to establish Food Day in Canada: From November 23, 2022, to December 14, 2022, the Committee studied Bill S-227. The Bill was reported back to the HoC on February 7, 2023.
    • Bill C-234, An Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act: From June 16, 2022, to November 14, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on Bill C-234. The Bill was reported back to the HoC on November 23, 2022.
    • Micro-Cultivation of Cannabis and Cultivation of Hemp: On June 20, 2022, the Committee met with industry stakeholders. On July 26, 2022, AGRI sent two letters to the Minister of Health to present its findings.
    • Agriculture and Agri-Food Supply Chain: From February 10, 2022, to May 30, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on the agriculture and agri-food supply chain. A report was presented to the HoC on June 8, 2022. A government response was presented to the Committee on October 6, 2022.
    • Processing Capacity: Continuing from the 43.2 Parliament, on December 16, 2021, the Committee met to adopt its report. The report was presented to the HoC on February 2, 2022. A government response was presented to the Committee on June 2, 2022.
    • Estimates: The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, accompanied by officials, appeared before AGRI four times for the following Estimates meetings:
      • 2023-24 Main Estimates
      • Supplementary Estimates (B), 2022-23
      • 2022-23 Main Estimates
      • Supplementary Estimates (C), 2021-22

    Anticipated studies

    • Agricultural aspects of the Indo-Pacific Strategy
    • C-275, An Act to amend the Health of Animals Act (biosecurity on farms)

    Other activities

    • Illegal Blockades at Canada's Border Crossings: On February 14, 2022, the Committee adopted a motion to report to the HoC that AGRI was calling to end illegal blockages at Canada's border crossings.
    • Status of the British Columbia Flood Recovery Effort: On January 31, 2022, government officials briefed the Committee on the status of the recovery efforts.
    • Briefing on the Interim Suspension of Certification of All Potatoes Originating from Prince Edward Island to the United States: On December 21, 2021, government officials briefed the Committee and responded to questions on the interim suspension.

    Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry

    • The Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (AFGO) has the mandate to examine legislation and to study, on order of the Senate, matters relating to agriculture and forestry.
    • The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, when invited, is accompanied by the Deputy Minister and officials to appear before the Committee to support its work.
    • The Committee gathers the majority of the information for its reports through public meetings where it hears from witnesses. Once a committee report is adopted by the Senate, the Senate may ask the Government to respond to the Committee's recommendations within 150 days (pursuant to the Rules of the Senate, Rule 12-24).

    Studies undertaken during the 44th Parliament — 1st Session (November 22, 2021, to present)

    • Examine and report on the status of soil health in Canada: The Committee began its study on the status of soil health in Canada on May 19, 2022, and has held 25 meetings on the subject matter thus far. It is anticipated that the Committee will continue its study when the Senate returns in September 2023.
    • Bill C-235, An Act respecting the building of a green economy in the Prairies: From December 13 to 14, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on Bill C-235. The Bill was reported back to the Senate on December 14, 2022.
    • The British Columbia Flood and Recovery Efforts: From April 28, 2022, to October 20, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on the British Columbia flood recovery efforts. A report was presented to the Senate on October 27, 2022, and a government response was presented to the Committee on April 21, 2023.
    • Subject matter of those elements contained in Parts 4, 5 and 6 of Bill S-6, An Act respecting regulatory modernization: From May 5 to 19, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on elements of Bill S-6. The Committee reported back to the Senate on May 31, 2022.
    • Bill S-236, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Employment Insurance Regulations (Prince Edward Island): From June 16, 2022, to May 9, 2023, the Committee undertook a study on Bill S-236. The Bill was reported back to the Senate on May 17, 2023.
    • Bill S-227, An Act to establish Food Day in Canada: From March 31, 2022, to April , 2022, the Committee undertook a study on Bill S-227. The Bill was reported back to the Senate on April 7, 2022.
    • Bill S-222, An Act to amend the Department of Public Works and Government Services Act (use of wood): From February 10, 2022, to March 24, 2022, the Committee undertook a study on Bill S-222. The Bill was reported back to the Senate on April 7, 2022.

    Anticipated studies

    • Bill C-234, An Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act
    • Bill S-241, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (great apes, elephants and certain other animals)

    Other committees of interest

    • There are over 20 parliamentary committees in each house of Parliament. Below are a few examples of committees of particular interest for the Department:
      • The Standing Committee on International Trade studies and reports on matters such as international trade policy and the global trade and investment environment.
      • The Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development studies legislation, departmental activities, spending, and reports of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, and other matters related to the general subject matter of the environment and sustainable development.
      • The Standing Committee on Finance studies and reports on all matters relating to the mandate, management and operation of selected federal departments and agencies, including the Department of Finance and the Canada Revenue Agency and conducts pre-budget consultations.
      • The Standing Committee on Industry and Technology studies and reports on legislation and the activities and spending of the members of the Innovation and Economic Development portfolio, and other issues related to: innovation, industry and technology capability; telecommunications and digital policy; intellectual property; investment, competition, trade, small business and tourism; and rules and services that support the effective operation of the marketplace.
      • The Standing Committee on Public Accounts has the mandate to review and report on the public accounts of Canada and all reports of the Auditor General of Canada.
      • The Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities studies the legislation, policies and programs and other issues of national importance related to transportation, infrastructure and Canadian cities and communities as well as the operations of Transport Canada and Infrastructure Canada.
      • The Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade examines legislation and matters relating to foreign and Commonwealth relations, including treaties and international agreements, external trade, foreign aid, and territorial and offshore matters.
      • The Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce examines legislation and issues related to banking, insurance, trust and loan companies, credit societies, caisses populaires and small loan companies. It is also responsible for considering customs and excise issues, taxation legislation, patents, royalties, corporate affairs, and bankruptcy-related issues.
      • The Standing Senate Committee on National Finance examines matters relating to federal estimates generally, including the public accounts and reports of the Auditor General, as well as government finance. In addition, the Committee has investigated other topics of interest and importance to the country.
      • The Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology has the mandate to examine legislation and to study issues related to cultural affairs and the arts, social and labour matters, health and welfare, and pensions and housing. It is also responsible for considering fitness and amateur sport, employment and immigration, and consumer and youth affairs.
      • The Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations has members from both the Senate and the HoC. The Committee reviews and scrutinizes government regulations and other statutory instruments to ensure government bodies remain accountable to Parliament. It deals with matters of legality and the procedural aspects of regulations, as opposed to the merits of particular regulations or the policy they reflect. The Committee has the power to recommend disallowance of a regulation or part of a regulation.

  • Seeking policy and program authority

    Overview of Memorandum to Cabinet and Cabinet business, funding decisions, Treasury Board submissions and Estimates process

    The Prime Minister is responsible for structuring Cabinet and determining the mandates and membership of Cabinet committees. The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is a member of Cabinet, which sets strategic direction, approves appointments and ratifies decisions of the Cabinet committees. Cabinet committees normally include separate committees for economic, social and international issues, and always include the Treasury Board Committee.

    The Department supports the Minister as a member of Cabinet and other Cabinet committees by preparing: briefing material for Cabinet committee meetings; and Memoranda to Cabinet (MCs) and related briefing material. An MC is the mechanism through which ministers bring forward policy proposals for the consideration and approval of their Cabinet colleagues. An MC is the first requirement in implementing a new initiative. A funding decision may be required and would be obtained through a separate decision made jointly by the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister, either through the annual budget cycle or off-cycle funding requests, if there are more urgent pressures that cannot be managed within a department's existing funding levels. Program approval is obtained through a Treasury Board (TB) submission. Finally, funds can be authorized for departments through the approval of appropriation bills in Parliament; this is known as the Estimates process (includes the Main and Supplementary Estimates and Departmental Plan).

    Memoranda to Cabinet and related briefing material

    Ministers seek Cabinet committee colleagues' approval of policy proposals through MCs to:

    • Advance a new policy or initiative;
    • Implement priorities that were announced in the Speech from the Throne or Budget or that were requested by the Prime Minister;
    • Propose a substantive change to an existing program or policy;
    • Advance a proposal that involves other ministers' responsibilities or other jurisdictions, or that may be controversial; or
    • Submit legislative proposals to Parliament or respond to a parliamentary committee or to Private Members' Bills or Motions.

    The Department supports the Minister by preparing the MC (and any supplementary material) and provides a briefing binder (for example, briefing note, talking points, questions and answers, and any relevant background material) for the Minister's use at the Cabinet committee meeting. The Department acts as the liaison and intermediary with central agencies (Privy Council Office, Department of Finance Canada, and the Treasury Board Secretariat), the portfolio and other government departments for all Cabinet-related business.

    The Minister (or a group of ministers) will present the MC to a Cabinet committee for focused discussion, recommending a course of action. Once the Cabinet committee has concluded its deliberations, it will issue a Committee Recommendation (CR). The MC and CR are then submitted to full Cabinet for further consideration and ratification. A Record of Decision is then issued that endorses the CR or amends it or, in some cases, makes Cabinet approval contingent upon other approvals being received (for example, ad referendum on funding or machinery-of-government changes).

    If a policy proposal is horizontal and involves mandate responsibilities of two or more ministers, a single MC is prepared, and the ministers involved co-sign. For instance, Global Affairs Canada leads international trade negotiation MCs with the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food co-signing given the importance of agriculture in trade agreements. Briefing material is also provided by the Department for MCs that the Minister co-signs.

    Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) typically leads MCs for Government responses to the parliamentary committee reports that are prepared by the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food, and the Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry, in collaboration with other departments involved. AAFC also provides input into Government responses led by other federal departments, should the recommendations touch on AAFC policies or programs.

    Budget cycle

    While an MC can propose a policy direction that has funding implications, ratification of an MC by Cabinet does not constitute approval of a source of funds for the initiative(s). Funding decisions are made jointly by the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister through a separate decision, preferably in the context of the annual federal budget process.

    The annual budget cycle typically involves several steps: 1) the Minister of Finance sends a letter to ministers requesting proposals to be considered for inclusion in the Budget; 2) ministers respond by submitting various proposals for consideration; 3) the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister decide which proposals will be included in the Budget; 4) the Budget is tabled in Parliament; and 5) the Budget Implementation Act is introduced to implement certain provisions of the Budget.

    Off-cycle funding requests

    To respond to unforeseen and extraordinary circumstances that cannot be managed within a department's existing financial authorities, funding proposals can be submitted to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance outside of the annual budget process as off-cycle funding requests.

    In these special circumstances, the Minister sends a letter to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance requesting incremental funding for a specific policy proposal. The Department of Finance and the Privy Council Office review the proposal, complete a brief and make recommendations to the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister. The Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister then make a decision.

    A department may also be invited by the Department of Finance to submit a proposal on a particular topic/issue to be announced in the Fall Economic Statement.

    Treasury Board submissions

    TB submissions are documents submitted by a minister to the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS) seeking approval or authority from the TB. The purpose of a TB submission is to seek approval of the specific elements of a program's design, delivery or implementation, and/or to seek authorities related to an organization's mandate, including financial authorities. The TB submission generally includes details of an initiative's design and delivery, how much it will cost each fiscal year and its expected outcomes.

    The most common authorities departments seek through TB submissions include:

    • Access to previously approved funding;
    • Authority to enter into a contract or undertake a project that exceeds the department's authority;
    • Approval of an investment plan;
    • Authority to implement new TB policies, revise existing policies or delegate related authorities;
    • Authority to name members to departmental audit committees; and
    • Authority to sign collective agreements.

    In preparing a TB submission for the Minister's signature, the Department will:

    • Ensure financial-resource needs and costing are challenged and rigorously review assumptions associated with financial and authority requirements;
    • Review the costing and source of funds for reasonableness and accuracy, and review the entire TB submission for risk and policy implications; and
    • Liaise with officials from the TBS.

    Working documents for MCs and TB submissions are classified as Cabinet confidences and, as such, are protected under section 39 of the Canada Evidence Act. Related documents can be shared only with those having the required security clearance and must be managed using proper information-management and security practices.

    Estimates process

    Following TB approval, the funding and authority to spend are obtained from Parliament through the Estimates process (Main and Supplementary Estimates approved through an appropriation act). The Main Estimates provide a listing of the resources required by the Department for the upcoming fiscal year in order to deliver the programs for which it is responsible. The Main Estimates are to be tabled by March 1, before the beginning of the fiscal year (April 1), and address the Department's initial budget for the year. Supplementary Estimates, usually presented in May, November and February, are adjustments throughout the year to incorporate new programs that have been approved subsequent to the Main Estimates. It is common practice that the Minister appear before a parliamentary committee to present the Department's Main and Supplementary Estimates and address any questions from the parliamentary committee.

  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada portfolio and partner organizations

    Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) works with partnering organizations and agencies that regulate aspects of the agriculture sector. The Department and its portfolio partners report to Parliament through the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, excluding the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), which reports to the Minister of Health. However, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food continues to be responsible for CFIA's non-food safety agricultural activities, including work related to plant health, animal health, and trade issues. The Deputy Minister of AAFC is responsible for advising the Minister on all matters under the Minister's responsibility and authority. The organizations within the Agriculture and Agri-Food portfolio are responsible for ensuring that policies and programs are coordinated and work to serve the interests of the sector and Canadians.

    Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

    History: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) was established in 1997 as a regulatory body. It is a science-based regulatory agency focused on mitigating and managing risks related to food safety, animal health and plant protection and prioritizes the health and safety of Canadians. CFIA transitioned from the Agriculture and Agri-Food portfolio to the Health portfolio in October 2013 to better align federal authorities related to food safety.

    Mandate: In considering CFIA's mandate, there are key areas where its activities can impact and influence the competitiveness and economic interests of the sector, particularly:

    • Food safety, animal health and plant protection;
    • Domestic and international trade and market access; and
    • Regulatory modernization.

    Activities: The Minister of Health is responsible for the overall direction and budget of CFIA and for issues related to food safety. CFIA continues to report to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food for non-food safety activities and economic and trade issues (for example, related to animal health, plant protection, market access, and agricultural inputs such as feeds, seeds, and fertilizer). CFIA collaborates with a variety of departments across all levels of government, stakeholders and interest groups to deliver its mandate.

    There are instances where CFIA will be required to brief and seek approval from both the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and the Minister of Health on issues and initiatives that cross areas of responsibility. These include issues such as biotechnology or animal or plant issues that may impact the food supply, such as antimicrobial resistance, as well as market access issues that relate to food safety.

    Funding: Total planned spending on core responsibilities and internal services is $842 million in 2023–24 and total planned revenue from all business lines (food safety, animal health, and plant health) is $53 million. (Sources: 2023–24 Estimates — Parts I and II The Government Expenditure Plan and Main Estimates)

    Full-time equivalents (FTEs): 6,355 employees

    President: Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar
    Appointment: February 27, 2023 to February 26, 2027

    Farm Credit Canada

    History: Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is a Crown corporation, created in 1959 through the Farm Credit Act. FCC's Corporate Office is located in Regina.

    Mandate: FCC provides specialized and personalized business and financial services and products to the agriculture and food industry.

    Activities: With a portfolio of more than $47.9 billion in loans (March 31██████), FCC is Canada's largest provider of capital to agriculture, agri-business, and food producers. FCC has close to 102,000 customers serviced by 102 field offices across Canada. FCC provides financing, software, learning programs, and other business services to advance the business of agriculture and food. FCC also makes investments in venture capital funds to address the need for alternative financing in the agriculture and food industry. It also partners with accelerators to provide connections and mentorship to accelerate the growth of start-ups and emerging businesses.

    Funding: FCC is self-sustaining and is not dependent on government appropriations. Funds to support its operations are borrowed directly from the Government of Canada under the Consolidated Borrowing Program, which must be approved by the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

    Budget: Last fiscal year, FCC's portfolio increased 7.6%, or $3.4 billion, to $47.9 billion and net income amounted to $722.1 million. (Source: Annual Report 2022-23)

    FTEs: 2,300

    Board of Directors:

    President & CEO: Ms. Justine Hendricks
    Appointment: January 30, 2023 to January 29, 2028

    The President and CEO of FCC is responsible for the supervision of the business of the corporation. Working with the Board of Directors, they are responsible for the strategic leadership of the corporation and for providing leadership and advice to the Board on all matters of policy affecting the direction and operation of the corporation.

    Board Chair: Ms. Jane Halford
    Appointment: April 22, 2020 to April 21, 2024

    The Chairperson serves as the FCC's primary liaison to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and is responsible for leading the 12-member FCC Board of Directors while working closely with the CEO.

    Director: Rita Achrekar
    Appointment: May 21, 2021 to May 20, 2025

    Director: Bertha Campbell
    Appointment: February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Director: Sylvie Chagnon
    Appointment: May 21, 2021 to May 20, 2025

    Director: Sylvie Cloutier
    Appointment: January 27, 2023 to January 26, 2026 (re-appointed)

    Director: Laura Donaldson
    Appointment: February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Director: Michele Hengen
    Appointment: May 21, 2021 to May 20, 2024 (re-appointed)

    Director: James Laws
    Appointment: May 21, 2021 to May 20, 2024 (re-appointed)

    Director: Michael Tees
    Appointment: May 21, 2021 to May 20, 2025

    Director: Govert Verstralen
    Appointment: February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Director: Vacant
    Appointment:

    Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal

    History: The Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal (CART) is an independent quasi-judicial administrative tribunal created in 1998. Its office is located in downtown Ottawa.

    As of November 1, 2014, CART became one of twelve tribunals that are supported by the Administrative Tribunals Support Services of Canada (ATSSC). The ATSSC allocates a budget to CART and provides administrative support, but CART remains part of the Agriculture portfolio. AAFC continues to be responsible for formulating policy in support of the administration of CART, and the Minister continues to have authority for appointments; however, CART remains independent in its review processes.

    Mandate: CART's mandate is to give the public the opportunity to request reviews of certain decisions or penalties imposed under various agriculture and agri-food acts. Requests for reviews come from individuals and industry. In this regard, the organization plays a key role in ensuring a fair and efficient administrative monetary penalty system.

    Activities: CART's main focus is to review Notices of Violation issued by CFIA, the Canada Border Services Agency and the Pest Management Regulatory Agency, in order to protect public health, animal welfare and plant life. CART began 2022-2023 with 39 cases in its queue.  It received 35 new files during the year. Of these 74 files, CART held 7 oral hearings and issued 22 decisions on merits. At the end of 2022-2023, CART had 24 cases in its queue. 

    Funding: Since 2022-23, most CART-specific financial information is no longer tracked. In 2022-2023, the salary of CART's four adjudicators (including one full-time Chairperson and three part-time adjudicators) was $305,696. 

    FTEs: The ATSSC provides registry, legal, and adjudicator support. In 2022-23, the ATSSC combined the secretariats of several of the Federal tribunals it supports. Along with four other tribunals, the ATSSC assigned CART to "Integrated Secretariat One" (which has 45 employees). CART has 1 full-time Chairperson and 3 part-time members.

    Chairperson: Ms. Emily Crocco
    Appointment: January 17, 2023 to January 16, 2028

    The Chairperson is a full-time member of CART and its CEO. In this capacity, the Chairperson is accountable for the effectiveness and efficiency of CART's operations and reports to Parliament through the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. However, because of the size of the Tribunal, it is not an independent entity under the Financial Administration Act (FAA). According to the FAA, CART obtains all of its funds from AAFC and must comply with AAFC and Treasury Board policies and approvals. Therefore, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food must approve CART's financial expenses.

    Part-Time Member: Geneviève Parent
    Appointment: August 31, 2021 to August 30, 2024 (re-appointed)

    Part-Time Member: Marthanne Robson
    Appointment: December 14, 2021 to December 13, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Part-Time Member: Patricia Farnese
    Appointment: December 13, 2021 to December 12, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Canadian Dairy Commission

    History: The Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) is a Crown corporation, created in 1966 by the Canadian Dairy Commission Act. Its office is located in Ottawa on the Central Experimental Farm.

    Mandate: To ensure that the supply-managed system in the dairy sector is working to benefit producers through a fair return for their production and that consumers have an adequate supply of high-quality dairy products.

    Activities: The CDC chairs the Canadian Milk Supply Management Committee and provides ongoing support to Canada's dairy industry, in co-operation with stakeholders and governments. The CDC also administers revenue pooling agreements, manages national targets for milk production and the farm gate price of milk, and administers programs. It has authority to buy, store, process, and sell dairy products on domestic and export markets. In August 2019, the Government announced that the CDC would administer and deliver payments to dairy producers under the Dairy Direct Payment Program.

    Funding: The CDC receives funding from Parliament, dairy producers, the marketplace and its commercial operations.

    Budget: $16.8 million for the dairy year ending July 31, 2024, including $4.3 million from government appropriations. The remaining $12.5 million is funded by CDC's commercial operations, from milk producers for programs administered on their behalf and from the marketplace for the storage of butter. (Source: CDC 2022–23 to 2026–27 Corporate Plan)

    FTEs: 73

    CEO: Mr. Benoit Basillais
    Appointment: July 4, 2022 to July 3, 2026

    The CEO is responsible for overall operations and management of the CDC and serves as the primary liaison between the CDC and dairy industry stakeholders and government officials.

    Chairperson: Ms. Jennifer Hayes
    Appointment: December 23, 2021 to December 22, 2025

    The Chairperson serves as the CDC's primary liaison to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and is responsible for leading the CDC Board of Directors while working closely with the CEO and Commissioner.

    Commissioner: Shikha Jain
    Appointment: September 15, 2022 to September 14, 2026

    The Commissioner supports both the Chairperson and the CEO in their functions and chairs the CDC Audit Committee.

    Canadian Grain Commission

    History: The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) was created in 1912 through the Canada Grain Act (CGA). Its headquarters are located in Winnipeg.

    Mandate: In the interests of grain producers, the CGC's mandate, as set out in the CGA, is to establish and maintain standards of quality for Canadian grain, to regulate grain handling in Canada and to ensure a dependable commodity for domestic and export markets.

    Activities: In carrying out its mandate and supporting its vision to be a leader in delivering excellence and innovation for the grain industry, the CGC's key activities are:

    • Quality assurance;
    • Quantity assurance;
    • Producer protection; and
    • Grain quality research.

    In Western Canada, the CGC is mandated to license and regulate the entire grain handling system, from the primary elevators, where grain is first received from producers, to the terminal and transfer elevators, where it is exported to foreign buyers.

    Funding: The CGC is funded through appropriations from Parliament and fees charged for services delivered.

    Budget: $71.84 million (funded by $6.2 million in annual government appropriation and $65.6 million in user fees revenue/use of accumulated surplus). (Source: CGC 2023–24 Departmental Plan)

    FTEs: 485

    Chief Commissioner: Mr. Doug Chorney
    Appointment: December 18, 2020 to December 17, 2023

    Process is currently underway with interviews scheduled to take place summer 2023.

    The Chief Commissioner reports directly to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and administers and enforces the CGA. The Chief Commissioner also serves as the CEO and provides overall direction and leadership to the staff of the Commission in administering the Act and regulations and in the provision of services to the grain industry.

    Assistant Chief Commissioner: Ms. Patty Rosher
    Appointment: February 15, 2021 to February 14, 2025

    Commissioner: Mr. Lonny McKague
    Appointment: February 13, 2021 to February 12, 2024 (re-appointed)

    Farm Products Council of Canada

    History: The Farm Products Council of Canada (FPCC) was created in 1972 by the Farm Products Agencies Act (FPAA), which provides for the creation of national marketing agencies for supply managed sectors (excluding dairy) and promotion and research agencies (PRAs). Its office is located in Ottawa on the Central Experimental Farm.

    Mandate: The FPCC's responsibilities, as defined in the FPAA, are to:

    • Advise the Minister on all matters relating to the establishment and operations of agencies under the FPAA with a view to maintaining and promoting efficient and competitive industries;
    • Approve production quota regulations and levies orders, licensing regulations and certain by-law provisions;
    • Work with agencies in promoting more effective marketing of supply managed farm products;
    • Investigate and take action, within its powers, on any complaints related to national agency decisions; and
    • Hold public hearings when necessary, such as when new agencies are proposed.

    Activities: FPCC works with and supervises the operations of the following six agencies established under the FPAA to ensure that they are promoting a strong, efficient, and competitive production and marketing industry and operate in the interests of producers and consumers.

    • Egg Farmers of Canada (1972)
    • Turkey Farmers of Canada (1974)
    • Chicken Farmers of Canada (1978)
    • Canadian Hatching Egg Producers (1986)
    • Canadian Beef Check-Off Agency (2002)
    • Canadian Pork Promotion and Research Agency (2020)

    A hemp promotion and research agency is currently in development.

    FPCC also administers the Agricultural Products Marketing Act (APMA), on behalf of AAFC. The APMA allows the federal government to delegate its authorities over interprovincial and export trade to provincial commodity boards on a wide range of farm products. This enables boards to collect "check off" duties from producers of commodities in order to fund research, marketing, and other activities of general benefit to the sector.

    Funding: The FPCC is funded entirely through appropriations as part of AAFC's ongoing votes listed in the Main Estimates.

    Budget: The 2022–23 forecasted budget is approximately $3 million.

    FTEs: 16

    Chairperson and Member: Brian Douglas (full-time)
    Appointment: June 11, 2022 to June 10, 2026 (re-appointed)

    The Chairperson of the FPCC is appointed by the Governor in Council and reports to the Minister, providing advice on the activities, objectives, requirements and policies of the Council, and on all matters relating to the establishment, operation and performance of agencies under the FPAA. FPCC is composed of between 3 and 7 members. Currently, the FPCC has 5 members.

    Vice-Chairperson: Bonnie denHaan
    Appointment: April 21, 2023 to April 20, 2027

    Member: Maryse Dubé
    Appointment: April 30, 2021 to April 29, 2025 (re-appointed)

    Member: Morgan Moore
    Appointment: June 19, 2022 to June 18, 2024 (re-appointed)

    Member: Samantha Haverkamp
    Appointment: April 21, 2023 to April 20, 2027

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