Transition of the Canadian Coast Guard to National Defence

Navigating change together

This page is the central source for information on the transition of the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal services employees to the Department of National Defence (DND). It will be updated regularly as new details, resources, and guidance become available.

Overview

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) as a civilian Special Operating Agency, and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal services employees are transitioning to the Department of National Defence (DND). This change will strengthen coordination, improve information-sharing, and enhance Canada’s ability to protect and defend its interests at home and abroad.

The transfer was first announced on June 9, 2025, and came into effect on September 2, 2025, through an Order in Council.

Throughout the transition, Defence Team members, including CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees, who are directly affected will receive clear, timely information and support. Resources, Q&As, and regular updates will be available on this page to help answer questions and address key concerns, including where CCG and affected DFO employees are going, who they’ll report to, and what their roles will look like.

National Defence and Canadian Coast Guard Leadership

• Minister of National Defence
  • Deputy Minister of National Defence
  • Chief of the Defence Staff
  • Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard

Key dates

• June 9, 2025: Transfer announced
• September 2, 2025: Order in Council made
• September 2, 2025: News release

Leadership messages

• June 11, 2025: Message from the DM/CDS: Update on Defence Investments
• September 2, 2025: Message from the Minister of National Defence: Welcoming the Canadian Coast Guard
• September 2, 2025: Message from the Minister of Fisheries: Canadian Coast Guard and Fisheries and Oceans Canada staff joining the Department of National Defence
• September 2, 2025: Message from the DM/CDS/Commissioner: Welcoming the Canadian Coast Guard to the Defence Team 
• September 2, 2025: Message from the Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada: Farewell to the Canadian Coast Guard
• September 2, 2025: Note from the Commissioner’s Desk: CCG’s Transition to the Defence Team-Official Steps
• September 10, 2025: Ombudsman Message: Welcoming the Canadian Coast Guard to the Defence Team

Resources

• Questions and Answers
• Canadian Coast Guard – DND Onboarding Package
• Defence Team health and wellness resources

Upcoming events

Related events will be shared here as information becomes available.