Report on Plans and Priorities 2015-2016
Table of contents
Message from the Chair and Chief Executive Officer
It is my pleasure to present the Canadian Transportation Agency's 2015-2016 Report on Plans and Priorities. This document outlines the Agency's role in supporting an efficient and accessible transportation system.
The Agency's 2014-2017 Strategic Plan is focused on transforming our business processes through innovative technologies and information management techniques to ensure effective and responsive service delivery.
Building on the successful first year of this Strategic Plan, we will now proceed with the next phase of streamlining our operating procedures and our interactions with industry and consumers, as well as updating key regulations.
The Strategic Plan sets out three priorities:
- Service Excellence
- Regulatory Effectiveness
- High-Performing Organization
The Agency will begin to offer enhanced services to clients this year as a result of a new Case Management System, as well as increased electronic access to services. The Agency's dispute resolution processes will continue to be streamlined, and we will implement a strategy to raise awareness about air passenger rights.
To further support the Government's emphasis on regulatory effectiveness, the Agency plans to modernize regulations related to air transportation and other areas and to implement, in partnership with Transport Canada, any new requirements related to rail certificates of fitness.
The Agency's risk-based approach to monitoring industry compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements will be enhanced. We will update air and rail codes of practice designed to remove undue obstacles to the mobility of persons with disabilities.
Our employees will be equipped to perform at their peak with updated technical resources, streamlined and integrated procedures and strong professional development support.
As always, the Agency's plans and priorities must remain responsive to the feedback offered by our clients and stakeholders. For example, they have told us they want easy access to the information they need and to the services we provide in economic regulation, dispute resolution and accessibility. We've listened – and committed to concrete actions as a result.
Our clients and stakeholders also want us to protect and foster our expertise – a concern we will continue to address this year through the creation of knowledge transfer tools for staff, such as an easily accessible repository of information about Agency operations.
Our 2015-2016 objectives will enable the Agency to uphold its reputation as a trusted and respected tribunal that supports an efficient and accessible transportation system.
Geoffrey C. Hare
Chair and Chief Executive Officer
Section I: Organizational Expenditure Overview
Organizational Profile
Appropriate Minister: The Honourable Lisa Raitt, P.C., M.P., Minister of Transport
Institutional Head: Geoffrey C. Hare, Chair and Chief Executive Officer
Ministerial Portfolio: Transport
Enabling Instrument(s): Canada Transportation Act, S.C. 1996, c. 10
Year of Incorporation / Commencement: 1904
Other:
The Agency shares responsibility for the following Acts:
- Access to Information Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. A-1
- Canada Marine Act, S.C., 1998, c. 10
- Civil Air Navigation Services Commercialization Act, S.C., 1996, c. 20
- Coasting Trade Act, S.C., 1992, c. 31
- Energy Supplies Emergency Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. E-9
- Financial Administration Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. F-11
- Official Languages Act, R.S.C, 1985, c. 31 (4th Supp.)
- Pilotage Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. P-14
- Privacy Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. P-21
- Public Service Modernization Act, S.C., 2003, c. 22
- Railway Relocation and Crossing Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. R-4
- Railway Safety Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. 32 (4th Supp.)
- Shipping Conferences Exemption Act, 1987, R.S.C., 1985, c. 17 (3rd Supp.)
The Agency has sole responsibility for the following regulations:
- Air Transportation Regulations
- Canadian Transportation Agency Designated Provisions Regulations
- Canadian Transportation Agency General Rules
- Canadian Transportation Agency Rules (Dispute Proceedings and Certain Rules Applicable to All Proceedings), SOR/2014-104
- Personnel Training for the Assistance of Persons with Disabilities Regulations
- Railway Costing Regulations
- Railway Interswitching Regulations, SOR/88-41
- Railway Third Party Liability Insurance Coverage Regulations
- Railway Traffic and Passenger Tariffs Regulations
- Railway Traffic Liability Regulations
- Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Service Arbitration, SOR/2014-192
- Rules of Procedure for Rail Level of Service Arbitration, SOR/2014-94
The Agency shares responsibility for the following regulations:
- Carriers and Transportation and Grain Handling Undertakings Information Regulations
- Railway Company Pay Out of Excess Revenue for the Movement of Grain Regulations
- The Jacques-Cartier and Champlain Bridges Inc. Regulations
- The Seaway International Bridge Corporation, Ltd. Regulations
These Acts and Regulations are available on the Department of Justice website, and are accessible through the Acts and Regulations section of the Agency's website.
Organizational Context
Raison d'être
The Canadian Transportation Agency is an independent, quasi-judicial tribunal and economic regulator. It makes decisions and determinations on a wide range of matters within the federal transportation system under the authority of Parliament, as set out in the Canada Transportation Act and other legislation.
Our mandate includes:
- Economic regulation, to provide approvals, issue licences, permits and certificates of fitness, and make decisions on a wide range of matters involving federal air, rail and marine transportation
- Dispute resolution, to resolve complaints about federal transportation services, rates, fees and charges
- Accessibility, to ensure Canada's national transportation system is accessible to all persons, particularly those with disabilities
Responsibilities
In meeting its responsibilities, the Agency continuously sets and strives to achieve high performance standards. Education and consultation are integral to the Agency's effectiveness in carrying out its mandate. The Agency works closely with transportation service users and providers in Canada, and with other directly affected stakeholders. It helps travellers, shippers, carriers, terminal operators, municipalities and others to fully understand not only their rights and obligations under the Canada Transportation Act and other statutes and regulations, but also the Agency's roles and responsibilities.
When appropriate, the Agency encourages parties to resolve disputes informally before issues escalate and impact the transportation system. The Agency consults broadly on issues that are important to the transportation industry. By remaining open and by listening to all affected parties, the Agency ensures that its decisions are both responsive and responsible.
The Agency exercises its powers through its Members, who are appointed by the Governor-in-Council (GIC): the GIC may appoint up to five full-time Members, including the Chair and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and the Vice-Chair. The Minister of Transport can also appoint up to three temporary Members.
The Chair and CEO is accountable for the Agency's three programs. The Vice-Chair replaces the Chair and CEO during his absence. All Agency Members, as independent decision-makers, are accountable for making quasi-judicial decisions on matters before the Agency.
The Agency's organizational structure is composed of five branches: the Dispute Resolution Branch, the Industry Regulation and Determinations Branch, the Legal Services, Registrar and Secretariat Branch, the Communications and Information Management Branch, and the Office of the Chair and CEO. The heads of each branch, as well as the Chief Financial Officer and the Director of Human Resources, report directly to the Chair and CEO.
The Agency's headquarters are located in the National Capital Region. Agency personnel working in field offices in five cities across Canada carry out air and accessibility enforcement activities. The Agency's role and structure are described on its website.
Parliament funds the Agency through an operating expenditures vote. The Agency operates within the context of the very large and complex Canadian transportation system.
Strategic Outcome and Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the national transportation system
Program 1: Economic Regulation
Program 2: Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Internal Services
Organizational Priorities
Organizational Priorities
Priority | TypeNote 1 | Strategic Outcome and Programs |
---|---|---|
Service Excellence The Agency is recognized for its service innovation and excellence |
Previously committed to |
Strategic Outcome Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the national transportation system Programs Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
Description
Why is this priority?
While service excellence is already entrenched in the Agency's mission, values and corporate culture, we plan to achieve a superior level of service delivery and responsiveness in all of our interactions with clients by harnessing technology and employee talent.
What are the plans for meeting this priority?
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Leveraging the new case management system to deliver improved services to clients
- Reviewing and streamlining of the Agency's processes to achieve efficiency
- Developing additional tools for Agency clients to increase their awareness of legislative and regulatory provisions, and to facilitate their access to Agency services
Priority | Type | Strategic Outcome and Programs |
---|---|---|
Regulatory Effectiveness The regulatory regime meets the needs of Canadians and enhances the competitiveness and accessibility of the national transportation system |
Previously committed to |
Strategic Outcome Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the national transportation system Programs Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
Description
Why is this priority?
As part of the cross-government effort to reduce red tape, we want to ensure that regulations are relevant and streamlined, and that we identify and eliminate any undue administrative burden for industry.
What are the plans for meeting this priority?
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Publishing amendments to the Personnel Training for the Assistance of Persons with Disabilities Regulations and Part VII of the Air Transportation Regulations and communicating changes to industry and community of persons with disabilities
- Modernizing the Air Transportation Regulations through proposed amendments to Parts I, II, III, and IV
- Enhancing the Agency's non-regulatory approaches to improving accessibility by updating its codes of practice
- Implementing new requirements related to rail certificates of fitness in partnership with Transport Canada
- Enhancing the Agency's risk-based approach to monitoring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements, accessibility codes of practice, and Agency decisions
Priority | Type | Strategic Outcome and Programs |
---|---|---|
High-Performing Organization The Agency has engaged, skilled and knowledgeable employees who are supported by effective and efficient systems and services. |
Previously committed to |
Strategic Outcome Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the national transportation system Programs Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
Description
Why is this priority?
The Agency's ability to operate as a high-performing organization and deliver on the ambitious objectives of this Strategic Plan depends largely on the skills and dedication of its employees. The Agency's most valuable resource is its highly-trained, expert workforce, so it is essential that our employees be fully engaged in this shared vision and be given the tools they need to contribute to our success.
What are the plans for meeting this priority?
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Implementing initiatives to move towards the Agency's vision of a paperless office
- Analyzing business requirements for next-generation technologies for workplace 2.0 and enhancing web-based videoconferencing services
- Implementing new service delivery models for internal services
- Improving the efficiency of existing internal administrative business processes and services
- Renewing internal practices and creating an easy-to-access repository of information about Agency operations, including mission-critical expertise to ensure that the Agency maintains business-critical expertise
Risk Analysis
The Agency continues to face three risks that may have an impact on the Agency's ability to carry out its mandate.
Key Risks
Risk | Risk Response Strategy | Link to Program Alignment Architecture |
---|---|---|
1. Increase in Agency mandates Insufficient capacity to simultaneously maintain core business functions and absorb new mandates resulting from Government of Canada priorities |
|
Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
2. Corporate services realignment Significant financial and human resources required to respond to common federal government initiatives (e.g., shared services, process standardization, etc.), while maintaining sufficient capacity to support the Agency's mandate |
|
Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
3. Modernization of information management Any delays in implementation of the new shared case management system may impact Agency initiatives to achieve efficiencies and enhance client service delivery |
|
Economic Regulation Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution Internal Services |
1. Increase in Agency mandates
Over the coming year, the Canadian Transportation Agency may be faced with taking on additional responsibilities related to economic regulation and adjudication and alternative dispute resolution. The Agency's budget allocation has remained essentially flat for the past eight years, during which time the Agency has absorbed a number of new mandates without additional funding, choosing instead to reorganize and reallocate internally. This approach has been supported by the Agency's efforts to improve efficiency of Agency processes and find economies wherever possible.
The Agency will continue its internal streamlining initiatives to ensure capacity for priority areas and reduce resources required to issue orders, decisions, permits and licences. Automated processing mechanisms will continue to be explored and implemented to improve the speed and efficiency of business transactions with industry, and next-generation technology solutions will be implemented to support more effective case processing. Wherever possible, the Agency will also re-evaluate and streamline requirements to reduce turnaround times and overall cost.
Nevertheless, at this point, the Agency has exhausted the flexibility it has been able to find previously. Taking on further responsibilities will have a significant operational impact on the delivery of new mandates, as well as the Agency's core business, meaning that the Agency may be required to seek additional funding.
2. Corporate services realignment
To support the Government in transforming its internal corporate services, the Agency will implement shared service delivery models and common processes, policies and systems. The transition associated with these centrally-driven measures is significant and, if not properly managed by the Agency, could prevent the Agency from effectively delivering on its core responsibilities and interrupt day-to-day Agency business.
As part of its mitigation strategy, the Agency regularly engages with central agencies about changes to government policy. Corporate services across the Agency have been realigned with the core governance structure to inform decision-making and adapt to the Agency's environment of change. The Agency's multi-year shared services transition strategy will ensure that core business is able to continue by ensuring a consistent and comprehensive approach towards the services affected, costs, and human resource implications.
3. Modernization of information management
In the context of its three-year Strategic Plan, the Agency is modernizing how it manages information. This initiative represents a major step forward for the Agency over the next two years and will increase Agency efficiency and facilitate service excellence. The Agency is part of a cluster of departments and agencies that will be using a new, shared and standard case management system. While the Agency's implementation is well advanced, any delays would put the Agency at risk of being unable to deliver on core business and service delivery objectives.
To support implementation, a case management committee has been integrated into the Agency's governance structure to oversee project progress, ensure timely implementation, and account for further risks as they are identified.
Planned Expenditures
Budgetary Financial Resources (dollars)
2015-2016 Main Estimates |
2015-2016 Planned Spending |
2016-2017 Planned Spending |
2017-2018 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|
27,733,404 | 29,403,610 | 28,105,037 | 28,075,595 |
Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents [FTEs])
2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018 |
---|---|---|
236 | 232 | 232 |
Budgetary Planning Summary for Strategic Outcome and Programs (dollars)
Strategic Outcome, Programs and Internal Services | 2012-20 13 Expenditures |
2013-2014 Expenditures |
2014-2015 Forecast Spending |
2015-2016 Main Estimates |
2015-2016 Planned Spending |
2016-2017 Planned Spending |
2017-2018 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Economic Regulation | 12,878,592 | 12,027,105 | 12,234,798 | 11,814,081 | 12,525,568 | 11,972,392 | 11,959,850 |
Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution | 8,337,217 | 8,982,629 | 9,315,781 | 10,052,251 | 10,657,634 | 10,186,954 | 10,176,283 |
Subtotal | 21,215,809 | 21,009,734 | 21,550,579 | 21,866,332 | 23,183,202 | 22,159,346 | 22,136,132 |
Internal Services Subtotal | 7,485,034 | 7,967,204 | 7,208,681 | 5,867,072 | 6,220,408 | 5,945,691 | 5,939,463 |
Total | 28,700,843 | 28,976,938 | 28,759,260 | 27,733,404 | 29,403,610 | 28,105,037 | 28,075,595 |
Alignment of Spending With the Whole-of-Government Framework
Alignment of 2015-2016 Planned Spending With the Whole-of-Government Framework (dollars)
Strategic Outcome | Program | Spending Area | Government of Canada Outcome | 2015-2016 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the national transportation system | Economic Regulation | Economic Affairs | A fair and secure marketplace | 12,525,568 |
Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution | Economic Affairs | A fair and secure marketplace | 10,657,634 | |
Internal Services | Economic Affairs | A fair and secure marketplace | 6,220,408 |
Total Spending by Spending Area (dollars)
Spending Area | Total Planned Spending |
---|---|
Economic affairs | 29,403,610 |
Social affairs | N/A |
International affairs | N/A |
Government affairs | N/A |
Departmental Spending Trend

The spending amounts presented in the chart for fiscal years 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 are actual results as presented in the Public Accounts of Canada. Spending has remained consistent over the past two fiscal years.
Forecasted spending for fiscal year 2014-2015 is $28.8 million. This estimate is based on total authorities added to amounts the Agency forecasts receiving from Treasury Board Secretariat for reimbursement of eligible paylist expenditure, given that these amounts can be estimated with some certainty.
Fiscal year 2015-2016, projected spending includes funding to be received through Main Estimates plus an estimated carry-forward of lapsed funds from 2014-2015 of $1.2 million. This carry-forward will principally be used to cover forecasted salary increases, forecasted investments in the implementation of the new case management system, and costs imposed by Treasury Board Secretariat related to shared services.
Projected spending for fiscal years 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 consists of funding anticipated to be received only through Main Estimates.
Estimates by Vote
For information on the Canadian Transportation Agency's organizational appropriations, consult the 2015-2016 Main Estimates on the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat website.
Section II: Analysis of Programs by Strategic Outcome
Strategic Outcome: Transparent, fair and timely dispute resolution and economic regulation of the federal transportation system
Performance Measurement
Performance Indicators | Targets | Date to Be Achieved |
---|---|---|
Percentage of satisfaction with economic regulation and dispute resolution servicesNote 2 | 70% | April 2017 |
Program 1: Economic Regulation
Description
The Agency supports an efficient and accessible federal transportation system for users, service providers and other stakeholders through economic regulation of federal air, rail and marine transportation. It regulates air transportation by enforcing the Canada Transportation Act and related regulations, administering a licensing and charter permit system, helping to negotiate air bilateral agreements, and ensuring that terms and conditions of carriage of air carriers are consistent with Canadian legislation. It develops regulations, codes of practice, and educational and outreach programs to ensure that undue obstacles to the mobility of persons with disabilities are removed from the federal transportation network. It regulates the federal rail system by issuing certificates of fitness allowing carriers to operate, approving rail line construction, overseeing the discontinuance of service, establishing the net salvage value of rail lines, and it determines interswitching rates and administers the maximum revenue entitlement for the movement of Western grain. It acts as an economic regulator in marine transportation by determining whether suitable Canadian vessels are available when applications are made to use foreign vessels.
Budgetary Financial Resources (dollars)
2015-2016 Main Estimates |
2015-2016 Planned Spending |
2016-2017 Planned Spending |
2017-2018 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|
11,814,081 | 12,525,568 | 11,972,392 | 11,959,850 |
Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents [FTEs])
2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018 |
---|---|---|
101 | 99 | 99 |
Performance Measurement
Expected Results | Performance Indicators | Targets | Date to Be Achieved |
---|---|---|---|
Service providers (air, rail and marine) comply with regulatory requirements | Air service licensees and facility operators comply with the regulatory requirements within 70 business days of the periodic inspection | 85% | Ongoing |
Air service licensees and facility operators who have been found in contravention of the regulatory requirements and are brought into compliance following a periodic inspection remain compliant | 85% | April 2018 | |
Level of compliance with targetedNote 3 accessibility provisions in regulations | 85% | April 2017 | |
Level of compliance with targetedNote 4 accessibility provisions in voluntary codes of practice | 75% | April 2017 | |
CN and CP are provided with the information required to ensure they do not exceed the maximum grain revenue entitlements for the shipment of Western Grain | Number of times that either CN or CP has exceeded their respective Western Grain revenue cap entitlement by more than 1% over the last three years | One time or fewer out of six | April 2017 |
Planning Highlights
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Developing resource tools to inform industry and the public of the amended provisions regarding rail level of service
- Supporting Transport Canada in the review regarding rail certificates of fitness
- Amending the Designated Provisions Regulations
- Conducting outreach and compliance activities to help industry follow the new interline baggage rules
- Completing the administrative monetary penalty framework for rail level of service arbitrations
- Reviewing the railway accounting framework, Railway Costing Regulations and railway costing tools
- Enhancing the Agency's risk-based approach to monitoring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements
- Developing a voluntary self-assessment compliance tool for air carriers
Program 2: Adjudication and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Description
The Agency provides formal and informal dispute resolution services to users, service providers and others affected by the federal transportation network. As a quasi-judicial tribunal, the Agency has the authority to issue adjudicative decisions and orders on matters within its jurisdiction over federal rail, air and marine modes of transportation and, in respect of the Agency's accessibility mandate including extra-provincial bus operations. It resolves disputes between: air travellers and air carriers regarding terms and conditions of air carriage; persons with disabilities and service providers regarding undue obstacles to the mobility of such persons within the federal transportation network; rail shippers and railway companies regarding level of service and other matters; municipalities, road authorities, landowners and railways regarding rail infrastructure; railways and individuals or communities affected by rail noise and vibration; Canadian ship owners and other interested persons regarding coasting trade and pilotage and port authorities regarding charges for pilotage services or port fees.
Budgetary Financial Resources (dollars)
2015-2016 Main Estimates |
2015-2016 Planned Spending |
2016-2017 Planned Spending |
2017-2018 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|
10,052,251 | 10,657,634 | 10,186,954 | 10,176,283 |
Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalents [FTEs])
2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018 |
---|---|---|
77 | 75 | 75 |
Performance Measurement
Expected Results | Performance Indicators | Targets | Date to Be Achieved |
---|---|---|---|
Specialized transportation dispute resolution that is transparent, fair and timely | Percentage of dispute resolution service standards achievedNote 5 | 70% | April 2017 |
Planning Highlights
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Updating accessibility standards, including those reflected in the air and rail codes of practice
- Continuing the implementation of electronic hearings of adjudicated cases pursuant to new dispute adjudication rules
- Monitoring the progress of rail level of service arbitrations and developing helpful tools for users
- Improving awareness of Agency dispute resolution services by implementing the air awareness strategy and publicizing Agency decisions related to air
- Continuing to promote alternative dispute resolution as a faster and cost-effective way to resolve disputes
- Further streamlining dispute resolution processes to achieve efficiency, including revision of the coasting trade process
Internal Services
Description
Internal Services are groups of related activities and resources that are administered to support the needs of programs and other corporate obligations of an organization. Internal services include only those activities and resources that apply across an organization, and not those provided to a specific program. The groups of activities are Management and Oversight Services; Communications Services; Legal Services; Human Resources Management Services; Financial Management Services; Information Management Services; Information Technology Services; Real Property Services; Materiel Services; and Acquisition Services.
Budgetary Financial Resources (dollars)
2015-2016 Main Estimates |
2015-2016 Planned Spending |
2016-2017 Planned Spending |
2017-2018 Planned Spending |
---|---|---|---|
5,867,072 | 6,220,408 | 5,945,691 | 5,939,463 |
Human Resources (FTEs)
2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018 |
---|---|---|
58 | 58 | 58 |
Planning Highlights
In 2015-2016, the Agency will focus on:
- Implementation of standardized Government of Canada human resources systems, including PeopleSoft and Phoenix
- Implementing new online collaborative tools to strengthen internal communications and facilitate innovation
- Strengthening project management and implementation by improving results-based financial monitoring and performance reporting and implementing common project management tools
- Strengthening the Agency's risk framework
- Developing and implementing succession plans, talent management and performance management strategies
- Implementing new Government of Canada internal services performance measurement standards
Section III: Supplementary Information
Future-Oriented Statement of Operations
The future-oriented condensed statement of operations provides a general overview of the Canadian Transportation Agency's operations. The forecast of financial information on expenses and revenues is prepared on an accrual accounting basis to strengthen accountability and to improve transparency and financial management.
Because the future-oriented condensed statement of operations is prepared on an accrual accounting basis, and the forecast and planned spending amounts presented in other sections of the Report on Plans and Priorities are prepared on an expenditure basis, amounts differ.
A more detailed future-oriented statement of operations and associated notes, including a reconciliation of the net cost of operations to the requested authorities, can be found on the Canadian Transportation Agency's website.
Financial Information | 2014-2015 Estimated Results |
2015-2016 Planned Results |
Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Total expenses | 32,280,938 | 33,295,314 | 1,014,376 |
Total revenues | - | - | - |
Net cost of operations | 32,280,938 | 33,295,314 | 1,014,376 |
As shown in the table above, the Agency is projecting a net operating cost of $33.3 million. The forecast increase in expenses in 2015-2016 of $1 million is primarily due to forecasted salary increases, forecasted investments in the implementation of the new case management system, and costs imposed by Treasury Board Secretariat related to shared services.
Supplementary Information Tables
The supplementary information tables listed in the 2015-2016 Report on Plans and Priorities can be found on the Canadian Transportation Agency's website
-
Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy;
Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
Overview of the Federal Government's Approach to Sustainable Development
The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) 2013-2016 guides the Government of Canada's sustainable development activities, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the objectives of the Act to make environmental decision making more transparent and accountable to Parliament, the Canadian Transportation Agency supports the implementation of the FSDS through the activities in this supplementary information table.
This Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy presents the planned contributions and expected results Theme IV – Shrinking the Environmental Footprint – Beginning with Government.
Theme IV: Targets and Implementation Strategies
Goal 6: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Energy
Target 6.1: GHG Emissions Reduction
The Government of Canada will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its buildings and fleets by 17% below 2005 levels by 2020.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Reduce the carbon footprint and energy consumption of federal operations.
Performance indicator Targeted performance level The Agency ensures its fleet adheres to greenhouse gas emission standards. All cars in the Agency's fleet (1 vehicle) adhere to greenhouse gas emissions standards. Goal 7: Waste and Asset Management
Target 7.1: Real Property Environmental Performance
As of April 1, 2014, and pursuant to departmental Real Property Sustainability Frameworks, an industry-recognized level of high environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
An industry-recognized level of high-environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.
Additional activities Targeted performance level The Agency ensures that all waste (broken items, etc.) is disposed of in eco-friendly ways 100% of Agency waste is disposed of in eco-friendly ways Implementation strategy element or best practice Targeted performance level 7.1.1.1. Achieve a level of performance that meets or exceeds the custodian's current commitment(s) to sustainable buildings using industry-recognized assessment and verification tool(s). The Agency complies with existing standards. Target 7.2: Green Procurement
As of April 1, 2014, the Government of Canada will continue to take action to embed environmental considerations into public procurement, in accordance with the federal Policy on Green Procurement.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Environmentally responsible acquisition, use and disposal of goods and services.
Performance indicator Targeted performance level Departmental approach to further the implementation of the Policy on Green Procurement in place as of April 1, 2014.
In the Canadian Transportation Agency's Contracting Policy and Procedures Guide, Point #1.4.9:
"The federal Policy on Green Procurement requires that where available and cost effective, green products and services that are of equal or better performance and quality must be purchased.
In general, "green" requirements must be considered as early as possible in the acquisition of goods and services and must never be added as a restriction after the fact.
Where possible, all procurement must promote environmental sustainability by integrating environmental performance considerations into the procurement decision process."
Number and percentage of procurement and/or materiel management specialists who have completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course (C215) or equivalent, in the given fiscal year.
2 of 2
100%
Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of procurement and materiel whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution toward green procurement, in the given fiscal year.
0
0%
Departmental green procurement target
The Agency will use only recycled paper
Performance indicator Targeted performance level Type of paper used by the Agency 100% recycled paper Departmental green procurement target
The Agency will reduce the amount of paper it uses
Performance indicator Targeted performance level Reduction in the amount of paper used by the Agency 5% reduction Implementation strategy element or best practice Targeted performance level 7.2.1.5. Leverage common use procurement instruments where available and feasible.
The Agency uses PWGSC procurement instruments as its primary procurement mechanism and leverages the environmental considerations incorporated into these standing offers by PWGSC. Furthermore:
- In 2014-2015, the Agency's procurement and materiel management policies will continue to be reviewed to ensure environmental considerations are integrated;
- Since 2010-2011, the Federal Electronic Waste Strategy is followed by the Agency for electronic and electrical equipment; and
- The Statement of Work templates used for contracting for services and the contract review checklist were reviewed in 2012-2013 to identify opportunities to include environmental considerations.
These management processes and controls were selected through an analysis of the Agency's decision-making processes and controls.
Best Practice
7.2.3. Train acquisition cardholders on green procurement.
Achieved
Best Practice
7.2.4. Increase awareness of the Policy on Green Procurement among managers.
Achieved
Target 7.3: Sustainable Workplace Operations
As of April 1, 2015, the Government of Canada will update and adopt policies and practices to improve the sustainability of its workplace operations.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Departmental workplace operations have a reduced environmental impact.
Performance indicator Targeted performance level An approach to maintain or improve the sustainability of the departmental workplace in place by March 31, 2015. The Agency will continue to work towards this objective. Implementation strategy element or best practice Targeted performance level 7.3.1.1. Engage employees in greening government operations practices. Achieved 7.3.1.2. Integrate environmental considerations into corporate policies, processes and practices in accordance with departmental refresh cycles. Achieved 7.3.1.3. Maintain or improve existing approaches to sustainable workplace practices (i.e., printer ratios, paper usage and green meetings). Achieved 7.3.1.4. Minimize the ratio of information technology (IT) assets per employee. Achieved 7.3.1.5. Select and operate IT and office equipment in a manner that reduces energy consumption and material usage. Achieved 7.3.1.6. Dispose of e-waste in an environmentally sound and secure manner. Achieved 7.3.1.7. Reuse or recycle workplace materiel and assets in an environmentally sound and secure manner. Achieved 7.3.1.8. Minimize all non-hazardous solid waste generated and leverage service offerings to maximize the diversion of waste. Achieved 7.3.1.9. Increase the population density in office buildings and space utilization in special purpose buildings. Achieved 7.3.1.10. Maintain or improve sustainable fleet management. Achieved Additional Departmental Sustainable Development Activities and Initiatives
The Agency's new 2014-2017 Strategic Plan highlights initiatives that will move it towards becoming a paperless environment.
Strategic Environmental Assessment
In 2015-2016, the Canadian Transportation Agency will continue to consider the environmental effects of initiatives subject to the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals, as part of its decision-making processes. The Agency will ensure that its decision-making process and procurement practices include consideration of the FSDS goals and targets for Theme IV – Shrinking the Environmental Footprint – Beginning with Government. The results of any environmental assessment conducted by the Agency will be made public when an initiative is announced. The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been appropriately considered during proposal development and decision making.
-
Upcoming Internal Audits and Evaluations Over the Next Three Fiscal Years.
Upcoming Internal Audits and Evaluations Over the Next Three Fiscal Years
A. Internal audits
Title of Internal Audit Internal Audit Type Status Expected Completion Date Horizontal Internal Audit of Business Continuity Planning in Large and Small Departments
Security Management
Information Technology
Planned
September 2016
The Canadian Transportation Agency (Agency) does not maintain its own internal audit function. It participates in horizontal audits conducted by the Office of the Comptroller General (OCG), and implements applicable recommendations from other OCG horizontal internal audits in which it did not participate.
B. Evaluations
Link to Departmental Program Alignment Architecture Title of the Evaluation Planned Evaluation Start Date Planned Deputy Head Approval Date All Programs Core business process evaluations In progress Various
Tax Expenditures and Evaluations
The tax system can be used to achieve public policy objectives through the application of special measures such as low tax rates, exemptions, deductions, deferrals and credits. The Department of Finance Canada publishes cost estimates and projections for these measures annually in the Tax Expenditures and Evaluations publication. The tax measures presented in the Tax Expenditures and Evaluations publication are the responsibility of the Minister of Finance.
Section IV: Organizational Contact Information
For more information, please visit the Agency's website or contact the Agency at:
Canadian Transportation Agency
15 Eddy Street
Gatineau, Quebec
K1A 0N9
Tel: 1-888-222-2592
Fax: 819-997-6727
TTY: 1-800-669-5575
Email: info@otc-cta.gc.ca
Appendix: Definitions
- appropriation
- Any authority of Parliament to pay money out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
- budgetary expenditures
- Include operating and capital expenditures; transfer payments to other levels of government, organizations or individuals; and payments to Crown corporations.
- Departmental Performance Report
- Reports on an appropriated organization's actual accomplishments against the plans, priorities and expected results set out in the corresponding Reports on Plans and Priorities. These reports are tabled in Parliament in the fall.
- full-time equivalent
- Is a measure of the extent to which an employee represents a full person‑year charge against a departmental budget. Full-time equivalents are calculated as a ratio of assigned hours of work to scheduled hours of work. Scheduled hours of work are set out in collective agreements.
- Government of Canada outcomes
- A set of 16 high-level objectives defined for the government as a whole, grouped in four spending areas: economic affairs, social affairs, international affairs and government affairs.
- Management, Resources and Results Structure
- A comprehensive framework that consists of an organization's inventory of programs, resources, results, performance indicators and governance information. Programs and results are depicted in their hierarchical relationship to each other and to the Strategic Outcome(s) to which they contribute. The Management, Resources and Results Structure is developed from the Program Alignment Architecture.
- non-budgetary expenditures
- Include net outlays and receipts related to loans, investments and advances, which change the composition of the financial assets of the Government of Canada.
- performance
- What an organization did with its resources to achieve its results, how well those results compare to what the organization intended to achieve and how well lessons learned have been identified.
- performance indicator
- A qualitative or quantitative means of measuring an output or outcome, with the intention of gauging the performance of an organization, program, policy or initiative respecting expected results.
- performance reporting
- The process of communicating evidence-based performance information. Performance reporting supports decision making, accountability and transparency.
- planned spending
- For Reports on Plans and Priorities (RPPs) and Departmental Performance Reports (DPRs), planned spending refers to those amounts that receive Treasury Board approval by February 1. Therefore, planned spending may include amounts incremental to planned expenditures presented in the Main Estimates. A department is expected to be aware of the authorities that it has sought and received. The determination of planned spending is a departmental responsibility, and departments must be able to defend the expenditure and accrual numbers presented in their RPPs and DPRs.
- plans
- The articulation of strategic choices, which provides information on how an organization intends to achieve its priorities and associated results. Generally a plan will explain the logic behind the strategies chosen and tend to focus on actions that lead up to the expected result.
- priorities
- Plans or projects that an organization has chosen to focus and report on during the planning period. Priorities represent the things that are most important or what must be done first to support the achievement of the desired Strategic Outcome(s).
- program
- A group of related resource inputs and activities that are managed to meet specific needs and to achieve intended results and that are treated as a budgetary unit.
- Program Alignment Architecture
- A structured inventory of an organization's programs depicting the hierarchical relationship between programs and the Strategic Outcome(s) to which they contribute.
- Report on Plans and Priorities
- Provides information on the plans and expected performance of appropriated organizations over a three-year period. These reports are tabled in Parliament each spring.
- results
- An external consequence attributed, in part, to an organization, policy, program or initiative. Results are not within the control of a single organization, policy, program or initiative; instead they are within the area of the organization's influence.
- Strategic Outcome
- A long-term and enduring benefit to Canadians that is linked to the organization's mandate, vision and core functions.
- sunset program
- A time-limited program that does not have an ongoing funding and policy authority. When the program is set to expire, a decision must be made whether to continue the program. In the case of a renewal, the decision specifies the scope, funding level and duration.
- target
- A measurable performance or success level that an organization, program or initiative plans to achieve within a specified time period. Targets can be either quantitative or qualitative.
- whole-of-government framework
- Maps the financial contributions of federal organizations receiving appropriations by aligning their Programs to a set of 16 government-wide, high-level outcome areas, grouped under four spending areas.
Report a problem on this page
- Date modified: