Questions and Answers

Q.1What is happening to the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG)?

A.1In June 2025, the Government of Canada announced that the Canadian Coast Guard will be moving from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to the Department of National Defence (DND). The change will permit the Canadian Coast Guard to better fulfill both its civilian and security responsibilities. This transfer is happening through a legal process called an Order in Council, made on September 2, 2025.

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Q.2Will the CCG’s day-to-day operations change?

A.2The CCG will continue as a civilian Special Operating Agency, providing its core missions of search and rescue, icebreaking, marine communications and traffic services, and environmental response, while ensuring safe navigation and supporting ocean science. Over time, integration with National Defence will create further synergies between both organizations to enhance operational effectiveness.

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Q.3Will Canadian Coast Guard vessels be repurposed for military use?

A.3Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) vessels will not be repurposed for military use or be deployed in combat. All CCG assets will continue to be used to deliver CCG’s civilian mandate.

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Q.4What new equipment or capabilities will be added to Canadian Coast Guard operations?

A.4In addition to becoming part of Canada’s defence portfolio, the Government of Canada has committed to investing in a new Canadian Coast Guard security role, including new surveillance capabilities and the ability to collect, analyze and disclose security information or intelligence with security partners.

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Q.5How will this affect search and rescue, icebreaking, and environmental protection missions?

A.5The delivery of reliable marine services, including search and rescue, emergency response, icebreaking, marine communication and traffic services, aids to navigation, and waterways management, remain part of the Canadian Coast Guard’s mandate and will continue uninterrupted during and after the transition to the Department of National Defence.

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Q.6What aspects of the Canadian Coast Guard's mandate will change under the Department of National Defence?

A.6The Canadian Coast Guard’s transition to the Department of National Defence will not change any aspect of its existing mandate. The Government of Canada is currently advancing a parallel effort under the proposed Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, to enhance CCG’s role in maritime security. If passed, Bill C-2 will amend the Oceans Act to add security as an official CCG service on top of its existing mandate.

Q.1What does this move mean for Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) employees?

A.1Indeterminate or term CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees will automatically be transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) under a process known as a block transfer. This means you don’t need to reapply or go through staffing processes. Your employment status, salary, benefits, and duties will stay the same. In some cases, your current manager will remain the same if they are part of the block transfer, but in other instances, a new manager will be identified, and you will be advised of the change shortly after the transfer is complete.

There is no job loss or surplus declaration. You will continue your work under DND without interruption. This approach is designed to ensure continuity and stability for public servants during organizational changes.

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Q.2What is a block transfer, and how does it impact CCG personnel and identified DFO employees?

A.2A block transfer occurs when an Order in Council is issued to transfer the control and supervision of a portion of the federal public administration from one department to another. The transfer of CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees to the DND, under the Public Service Rearrangement and Transfer of Duties Act and subsection 132(1) of the Public Service Employment Act, is a block transfer by operation of law. Employees are automatically transferred to the new department with no change in their employment status, salary, or benefits.

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Q.3Do I have a choice whether I want to transfer to the DND?

A.3No. The block transfer is a legal process that does not offer CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees an opt-out option.

Employees with concerns about the transition should speak with their manager to discuss support, career development options, or other available resources during the process.

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Q.4Will the transfer of the CCG to the DND trigger Workforce Adjustment (WFA) provisions?

A.4No. WFA provisions are not triggered by a block transfer. CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees retain their employment status, and there is no declaration of surplus or job loss.

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Q.5Will the location of my position change to a DND location?

A.5There is no immediate plan to change the location of positions. In the future, there may be opportunities for employees to collaborate onsite with DND at certain locations.

This will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees receive appropriate notice and can plan accordingly.

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Q.6Will I be required to move to a DND worksite?

A.6CCG personnel will continue to work from current worksites. In limited cases, some personnel have been asked to co-locate to nearby DND and CCG worksites to facilitate the transition and have been informed accordingly.

Identified DFO internal services employees may be asked to move to a CCG or DND worksite. Information on where employees will be required to work is currently under review. You will be kept informed on whether, when, and where you will be required to move, as applicable.

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Q.7Will I be changing unions?

A.7Your group and level will remain the same following the bulk transfer. Accordingly, your union affiliation will stay the same, though there could be changes to union components. More information will be shared as it becomes available.

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Q.8I have an ongoing grievance/harassment/staffing/official languages complaint. What will happen to my case after the transition to DND?

A.8The approach may vary depending on the nature of the issue and its supporting legislation, but process continuity will remain. As the transition moves forward, key parties will be informed of any changes to how their cases will be managed, and departments will coordinate to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities where needed.

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Q.9I have a full-time remote work arrangement in place. Will this be impacted once we transfer to DND?

A.9CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees with accommodations or exceptions to onsite presence requirements approved prior to the transfer will be honoured until such time as DND determines that a renewal or revision is necessary.

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Q.10What is the plan for identified DFO internal services employees who provide internal support services to the CCG? Which of these positions transfer to DND, and what is the process? What does it mean for my job security, role, and career path?

A.10DFO has undertaken a careful assessment to determine which internal services positions—such as those in Human Resources, Security, Finance, Information Management and Technology, ATIP, Communications, Strategic Policy, Real Property, and Materiel and Acquisitions —will transfer to DND.

Contingency plans will be put in place via a memorandum of understanding during the transition period. Identified DFO internal services employees have already been informed by their manager or director that they will be transferred to DND with no change in their employment status, salary, and benefits. In some cases, your current manager will remain the same if they are part of the block transfer, but in other instances, a new manager will be identified, and you will be advised of the change shortly after the transfer is complete.

This framework ensures continuity and stability for public servants during organizational changes. The goal is to ensure that the CCG continues to receive the internal support it needs under its new departmental structure, while also maintaining the operational integrity of DFO.

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Q.11How did DFO determine which internal services positions would move to DND? How were employees, including those on Leave Without Pay (LWOP), identified and informed? Will team structures and duties change?

A.11DFO identified internal services positions for transfer to DND based on operational needs, continuity of service, and minimal disruption. All internal services roles—such as Human Resources, Security, Finance, Information Management and Technology, ATIP, Communications, Strategic Policy, Real Property, Materiel and Acquisitions—were reviewed, including those held by personnel on Leave Without Pay (LWOP), and were notified by their manager or director.

While employee preferences were considered, where possible, the final decisions rested with DFO management. Transferred employees will retain their current group, group and level, but DND will determine team structures and workflows going forward. It is expected that identified DFO internal services employees supporting the CCG will continue working on CCG files during the transition, however this will be subject to DND and CCG operational needs.

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Q.12For DFO internal services employees transferring to DND who are providing internal pay support services, will we be providing pay support to just CCG personnel, or will we be taking on DND clients as well?

A.12DFO is in close discussions with DND to discuss on-going pay support for CCG personnel once the transfer takes place. It can be anticipated that the DFO Pay Team will continue to support CCG personnel, until further notice, however, DND will ultimately be responsible for making these decisions. More information will be shared with transferred personnel, once available.

Q.1Will there be any changes to my rate of pay, benefits, tenure, pension, or job classification?

A.1No. Employees will retain their current terms and conditions of employment. There is no change to pay, benefits, tenure, pension or job classification as a result of the transfer. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is working closely with the Department of National Defence and Public Services and Procurement Canada’s Public Service Pay Centre to avoid impacts to employee pay when the transfer happens.

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Q.2Will Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel pay files be audited prior to the transition to the Department of National Defence (DND)?

A.2Fisheries and Oceans Canada is working closely with DND and Public Services and Procurement Canada’s Public Service Pay Centre to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any risk to personnel pay when the transfer happens. Our priority is to protect the accuracy of your pay and address any known issues before the transfer. While audits are not planned, the Pay Centre may conduct targeted reviews of personnel pay files as needed.

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Q.3How does the government plan to address ongoing issues caused by Phoenix and what assurances are there that there won’t be additional issues due to the move? Does DND have a team similar to MyPay?

A.3At this time, Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal services employees will continue to access the existing MyPay team at DFO. More information will be provided, once available.

Within DND, civilian employees are supported by DND’s Compensation team which provides HR-to-Pay services like those currently provided to the CCG through DFO’s MyPay team. Going forward, as CCG personnel and DFO internal services employees are further integrated into the Defence Team, they will be transitioned to also receive support from DND’s Compensation team.

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Q.4Will I need to resubmit my banking information to the Pay Centre as a result of the transfer to DND, or will that information be included when my pay file moves to DND?

A.4For salary payments, banking information is managed either:

• Directly by the employee through Phoenix self-service (for connected employees), or
• Via paper form and Pay Action Request (PAR) submitted to the Public Services and Procurement Canada’s Public Service Pay Centre (for non-connected employees).

In most cases, employees do not need to re-submit their banking information when transferring departments.

Q.5Will there be any changes to overtime, travel, or expense rules?

A.5All Canadian Coast Guard personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees who transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) are required to follow DND policies and procedures or the applicable collective agreement related to overtime, travel, and expenditures. It is essential that employees consult with their supervisors before working overtime, travelling, or incurring any expenses to ensure that all activities are properly authorized and carried out in accordance with DND’s policies and procedures.

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Q.6How can I submit my overtime?

• A.6For Canadian Coast Guard personnel: the processes to submit overtime remains unchanged.
• For Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)-transferred employees: If you now report to a Department of National Defence (DND) Section 34 manager who does not have access to you in Phoenix, please follow the process below.

To submit overtime (cash or compensatory), an Extra Duty Pay/Shiftwork Report and Authorization (GC-179) form [PDF, 496 KB] (accessible only on the Government of Canada network) must be completed, signed and submitted to the DFO Trusted Source with a note in the subject line: Overtime – DND.

• Employee role
  The employee is responsible for completing the form and sending it to the DND section 34 manager for approval.
• Manager role
  The DND section 34 manager will review the completed form, approve or deny the employee’s request, and complete a Pay Action Request (PAR) [PDF, 892 KB] using:
  • Work type: Extra Duty Pay
  • Sub type: Late

The manager then send the PAR and the Extra Duty Pay/Shiftwork Report and Authorization form to the DFO Trusted Source to forward to the Pay Centre for processing.

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Q.7Who do I contact for questions about my pay, benefits, or HR issues?

A.7For any questions related to pay and benefits, employees should continue to contact Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s MyPay at dfo.mypay-mapaye.mpo@dfo-mpo.gc.ca. You will be notified prior to the system transfer when this service transitions to the Department of National Defence (DND).

Human Resources (HR)-related issues can span a wide range of topics, including staffing, on-boarding, labour relations, learning, employment equity, accessibility, official languages, and more. Employees are always encouraged to speak with their manager first, as they can help guide the conversation or direct employees to the appropriate DND HR contact based on the nature of the issue.

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Q.8How do I access pay-related support before or during major life events during this transition period?

A.8The Life Events team at Fisheries and Oceans Canada will continue to support employees throughout this time. You can continue to submit your inquiries to mypay-mapaye@dfo-mpo.gc.ca, making sure to include all key information in your request. You will be notified when this service transitions to the Department of National Defence.

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Q.9If I am based in Quebec and transferring to the Department of National Defence in Ontario. How will this affect my pay, taxes, and deductions?

A.9Taxes are based on your province of employment, which is determined by your employer according to your designated work location. Any change to your province of employment will result in adjustments to your tax deductions, in line with that province’s tax rates according to Canada Revenue Agency rules.

If you wish to request additional tax deductions, instructions are available in the Fisheries and Oceans Canada MyPay Launch Pad. For any questions or further assistance, employees are encouraged to contact MyPay at dfo.mypay-mapaye.mpo@dfo-mpo.gc.ca directly.

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Q.10What guidance is available to help minimize any tax impacts?

A.10When an employee’s work location changes, it may result in a change to their province of employment, which can affect tax deductions. If employees wish to request additional tax deductions, they can follow the instructions available in the Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s MyPay Launch Pad. For any questions or further assistance, employees are encouraged to contact MyPay at dfo.mypay-mapaye.mpo@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

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Q.11As a Canadian Coast Guard employee or identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employee transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) through the Order-In-Council, am I now eligible to apply for selection processes advertised by DND?

A.11Yes. As of September 2, 2025, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) officially became part of DND through an Order-In-Council (OIC). This means that CCG personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees transferred through OIC to DND, are now included in the Area of Selection and can apply for jobs open to DND employees.

Moving forward, any new positions supporting the CCG posted on Government of Canada jobs – Canada.ca will be under DND.

Q.1Will my IT access, accounts and equipment change?

A.1All Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal services employees transitioning to the Department of National Defence (DND) will continue to retain access to DFO networks and systems, as required, to fulfill their responsibilities. This access will remain in place until DND confirms that all relevant duties can be fully supported within its own network environment.

During this interim period:

• Work will remain governed by DFO policies, procedures, and security protocols.
• Personnel and employees are responsible for adhering to both DFO and DND information management and IT security standards, with particular attention to data handling, safeguarding of sensitive information, and records management.
• Supervisors will ensure that personnel and employees clearly understand lines of accountability during the transition.
• Any duplication of systems or dual-access requirements will be assessed regularly to minimize risks related to cybersecurity, records management, and continuity of operations.
• Current support resources (e.g. IT helpdesks, security contacts, etc.) will remain in place through both DFO and DND to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.

Timelines and phased transition plans will be communicated as they are confirmed, with sufficient notice provided to personnel to prepare for system or process changes. Further information will be provided as it becomes available, including updated guidance on access, responsibilities, and security requirements during the transition.

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Q.2Will I need a new employee ID card/building pass?

A.2The full integration of the Canadian Coast Guard into the Department of National Defence (DND) will take considerable time. During this transition period and until further notice, employees will continue to use their existing employee ID/building pass and work at their current designated building.

It is expected that there will be a transition, for some employees, to a DND-controlled building access system, which may require a new ID/building pass. More information will be shared with employees who will be transitioned to a new work location when available.

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Q.3Will all document repositories (e.g. OneDrive, SharePoint, GCdocs, Network Share Drives) be transferred to the Department of National Defence as part of the transition? Additionally, will existing SharePoint sites and pages used to house information similar to an intranet site be migrated?

A.3The intent is to transfer all Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) document repositories and SharePoint sites over to the Department of National Defence as part of the transition effort. Planning for the transition of digital services is ongoing.

All CCG employees can continue using existing document repositories. More information will be communicated as planning progresses.

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Q.4Which corporate signature should be used on communication products under the Federal Identity Program Design Standard?

A.4The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) has provided guidance to help determine which organizational corporate signature to use on communication products:

• Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) signature: Used for external/public-facing communication products that are specific to the CCG, such as brochures and posters. It is also to be exclusively applied to CCG’s physical assets including vessels, facility signage, and vehicles (should not be paired with the Department of National Defence (DND) signature). As a next step, CCG will update its internal visual identity guidelines to align with this direction.

• DND signature: Used for department-wide matters, including those that involve the CCG, such as joint initiatives, departmental plans, and Defence Team internal communications and campaigns.

For any questions regarding the Federal Identity Program, please contact Associate Deputy Minister (Public Affairs) Creative Services: ADMPADesign@forces.gc.ca.

Q.1Will Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Department of National Defence (DND) governance structures be updated?

A.1Yes. Both departments will update their delegation instruments and governance frameworks over time to reflect the new organizational structure and responsibilities.

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Q.2Will unions be consulted?

A.2Unions have been informed and engaged on matters affecting their members. This ensures transparency and helps to address any questions or concerns from personnel.

Q.1Are Canadian Coast Guard Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) Officer trainees included in the block transfer of Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel to the Department of National Defence (DND)?

A.1Marine Communications and Traffic Services Officer trainees will also transfer to DND, but not as part of the Order in Council. A separate agreement will be used to transfer them to DND, at the same time as the rest of the organization. Their current training and work conditions will stay the same. Official notification will come from DND.

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Q.2Will casual workers be included in the block transfer of staff to DND?

A.2CCG casual personnel will also transfer to DND, but not as part of the Order in Council. A separate agreement will be used to transfer them to DND, at the same time as the rest of the organization. Their current terms and conditions of employment will stay the same. Official notification will come from DND.

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Q.3Will students be included in the block transfer of staff to DND?

A.3CCG students will also transfer to DND, but not as part of the Order in Council. A separate agreement will be used to transfer them to DND at the same time as the rest of the organization. Their current terms and conditions of employment will stay the same. Official notification will come from DND.

Q.1How can I submit leave requests during the transition?

A.1If you are a Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) employee reporting to a CCG supervisor and CCG Section 34 manager, all Phoenix and MyGCHR processes remain unchanged until you transfer to Department of National Defence (DND) systems.

If you are a transferred Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) employee reporting to a transferred DFO supervisor and/or transferred DFO Section 34 manager, all Phoenix and MyGCHR processes remain the same until you transfer to DND systems.

If you are a transferred DFO employee now reporting to a DND supervisor and/or DND Section 34 manager who does not yet have access to you in MyGCHR or Phoenix, please follow these temporary processes.

Temporary Leave Processes

Temporary Leave Processes for Transferred Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Employees Reporting to a Department of National Defence (DND) Supervisor

Leave Without Pay (LWOP) – Regardless of Duration

To submit Leave Without Pay (LWOP), a Leave Application and Absence Report [PDF, 346 KB] form must be completed, signed, and submitted to the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Trusted Source with a note in the subject line: Leave without Pay – DND.

• Employee role: The employee is responsible for completing the form and sending it to the Department of National (DND) Section 34 manager for approval.
• Manager role: The DND Section 34 manager reviews the Leave Application and Absence Report and will approve or deny the employee’s request. If approved, they will complete a Pay Action Request (PAR) [PDF, 892 KB] using:
  • Work type: Leave
  • Sub type: Leave without Pay less than or equal to 5 days – Late or LWOP greater than 5 days – other

The manager will send the PAR and Leave Application and Absence Report form to the DFO Trusted Source, who will forward to the Pay Centre for processing.

LWOP for Part-Time Employees

If you are a part time employee reporting to a DND Section 34 manager, please reach out to MyPay: Attn: Time and Labour – DND request for support with schedules or LWOP for statutory holidays.

If you are the DND Section 34 manager of a part time employee and do not have access to their DFO profile in Phoenix, you will need to email MyPay: Attn: Time and Labour – DND request for support with statutory holidays that fall on a scheduled workday.

Vacation, Sick and Other Paid Leave

To submit paid leave, a GC-178 form [PDF, 346 KB] must be completed, signed, and submitted to the DFO Trusted Source with a note in the subject line: Paid Leave – DND. This allows leave credits to remain up to date.

• Employee role: The employee is responsible for completing the form to request paid leave, attaching a screen shot of their current leave balances and sending it to the DND Section 34 manager for approval.
• Manager role: The DND Section 34 manager reviews the completed form and will approve or deny the employee’s request. They will complete a Pay Action Request (PAR) [PDF, 892 KB] using:
  • Work type: Leave
  • Sub type: Leave with Pay

The manager will send the PAR and the completed GC-178 form to the DFO Trusted Source to forward to the Pay Centre for processing.

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Q.2What happens if I am acting in a Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) or identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) position on an assignment or on a secondment during the block transfer?

A.2All acting appointments, assignments, and secondments will continue upon transfer. Any extensions or changes will be managed by the Department of National Defence under its staffing authorities.

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Q.3What if I’m on Leave Without Pay during the block transfer?

A.3CCG personnel and identified DFO internal services employees on Leave Without Pay will be transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) just like active employees. When they return from leave, they will continue their duties under DND, with no change to their employment status or seniority as a result of the transfer.

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Q.4Will there be a consultation process with personnel and unions before changes are implemented?

A.4Unions and personnel will be kept informed and engaged on all matters affecting them to maintain transparency and trust.

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Q.5I’m a term employee with the CCG. Will my previously accumulated service time transfer to DND, and will the “Stop the Clock” measure continue after the transfer?

A.5Your accumulated service time under DFO will transfer to DND and count toward conversion to indeterminate status. The continuation of “Stop the Clock” measures will be determined by DND, but your previously earned time, prior to the “Stop the Clock” measure, will count toward the three-year cumulative period required for conversion, and remains valid under DND.

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Q.6I’m a term employee funded under a DFO Sunset Program. Will the terms of my sunset appointment also transfer to DND?

A.6Yes, the terms of your sunset appointment will transfer, but the designation and its implications will be reviewed by DND. It will be up to DND to determine whether to maintain, revise, or remove the sunset designation based on its own operational and funding context.

Q.1What will happen to the outstanding reclassification files? Will they be transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND)? If they aren’t processed prior to the transition, is there a risk of the employee not being paid?

A.1A: All ongoing files will be reviewed to determine if they will be transferred to DND or remain with Fisheries and Oceans Canada for continuation of the necessary work.

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Q.2Some Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) positions are classified using National Model Work Descriptions (NMWDs). Will these positions fit into DND’s classification structure? Do they use the same classification models?

A.2Many federal departments—including the CCG and DND—use Interdepartmental Standardized Job Descriptions (ISJDs), or develop their own Standardized Job Descriptions (SJDs). DND has the flexibility to use, adapt, or create its own job descriptions based on its needs.

If a CCG position linked to an ISJD or SJD is transferred to DND, the job description and classification will move with it under the block transfer. DND may keep the existing ISJD or SJD, adopt a different one, or eventually integrate the position into its own classification framework. DND’s Human Resources and Classification teams will review transferred positions to ensure they align with their organizational structure and classification practices.

Q.1I am a manager with staffing sub-delegated authority. Does this authority remain valid following the transfer?

A.1Yes, however, all sub-delegated managers will be required to complete and sign a Department of National Defence (DND) Sub-delegation Attestation Form to activate their DND delegated authority under the Deputy Head. Applicable managers will receive an email from the DND Human Resources team with the attestation form and instructions.

Q.1If I transfer to the Department of National Defence (DND), will there be a chance for a promotion or higher-level position?

A.1There is no change to your status, salary, benefits, tenure, pension or current job classification as a result of the transfer.

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Q.2What will happen to existing staffing pools and inventories created by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) for Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) positions? Can they still be used after the transfer?

A.2Once the transfer is complete, the DND will assume full authority for staffing decisions related to CCG positions. This includes determining whether and how to use any existing pools or inventories that were established by DFO.

While staffing flexibilities do exist under the Public Service Employment Act and the New Direction in Staffing, including the potential for interdepartmental use of pools, it is ultimately up to DND to decide whether these pools and inventories align with their operational needs and staffing strategies.

Q.1What mental health support is available during the transition?

A.1Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal services employees have access to support services offered through the Department of National Defence’s (DND) Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

This confidential service, provided by Homewood Health, is available to all DND public service employees and their eligible family members. The EAP offers a variety of services, including 24/7 counselling and crisis support, LifeSmart coaching, a digital mental health platform, a Key Person Advice Line, specialized team services and peer support services. They can also contact EAP-PAE@forces.gc.ca to learn more.

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Q.2What happens if I am currently receiving counselling through Health Canada’s EAP?

A.2If you are already in counselling with Health Canada, you may continue with your current counsellor until your case is closed. Afterward, any new support will be provided by DND’s EAP provider, Homewood Health.

Contact Information:

• Health Canada Employee Assistance Program: 
  • English: 1-800-268-7708 | 1-800-567-5803 (TTY)
• Homewood Health: 
  • English: 1-800-663-1142 | 1-888-384-1152 (hearing impaired)
  • French: 1-866-398-9505 | 1-866-433-3305 (hearing impaired)

For more information on DND’s Employee Assistance Program, visit: Employee Assistance Program.

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Q.3How will Defence Team culture be introduced to Canadian Coast Guard personnel and Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees?

A.3Both the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have distinct yet complimentary operational cultures and are committed to ensuring the safety and security of Canadians. While these similarities will help foster integration across the Defence Team, as civilian employees, CCG personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees will be provided training and orientation material to help understand the unique culture and environment of the Department of National Defence and the CAF, while maintaining CCG’s unique civilian culture.

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Q.4How will the Canadian Coast Guard’s unique identity and culture be preserved?

A.4The transition to Department of National Defence (DND) is happening with Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees, not to the CCG. As such, the CCG will continue to operate as a civilian Special Operating Agency within DND, with its own mandate, command structure, culture, and traditions. The CCG uniforms, symbols, and operations will remain unchanged and its proud history of providing services and safety to Canadians will continue to shape its organizational identity now and into the future.

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Q.5What are Defence Advisory Groups and what role do they play within the Defence Team?

A.5Defence Advisory Groups (DAGs) are employment equity advisory groups of serving Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and Deparment of National Defence (DND) public service employees who provide grassroots insight, advice, and recommendations to Defence Team leadership.

Although DND/CAF initially established DAGs in 1994 to support the implementation of the Employment Equity Act, their growth and expansion over the years has uniquely contributed to helping the Defence Team achieve positive employment equity outcomes and foster a more diverse and inclusive work environment.

At the policy and program level, DAGs:

• Assist with identifying systemic employment barriers
• Provide unique perspectives to affect change
• Directly advise both local and national leadership on issues that adversely affect their communities

DAGs operate at both the national and local levels, and participation is a voluntary secondary duty. For more information about the DAGs, please contact: DAGSecretariat-SecretariatGCD@forces.gc.ca.

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Q.6Will my Government of Canada Workplace Accessibility Passport transfer with me from Fisheries and Oceans Canada to the Department of National Defence?

A.6Yes. The Government of Canada (GC) Workplace Accessibility Passport is designed to “follow” the employee, in either its online or downloadable format, when transitioning from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to the Department of National Defence (DND).

While the digital version of the Accessibility Passport was not yet available at DFO, it is available at DND. Employees can access it through the TBS Applications Portal (TAP) under myAccessibleWorkplace. Employees are encouraged to digitize their GC Workplace Accessibility Passport and share their agreement with their current manager to avoid the need to renegotiate tools and support measures each time they change organizations, teams, or managers. Employees and their managers should review and update the Passport at least once a year, or whenever circumstances change, to ensure the agreed measures are still effective.

For more information, employees can visit the GC Workplace Accessbility Passport page or contact DND’s Office of Disability Management at ODM-BGI@forces.gc.ca.

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Q.7How will Canadian Coast Guard personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada employees connect with the Department of National Defence’s employee networks? Is there a list of networks available?

A.7The Defence Team has a strong support network to help foster an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. This includes Employment Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI) Champions, Defence Advisory Groups (DAGs), and various Employee Networks. Each plays a complementary role in advancing inclusion across the organization. Learn more about each of these groups, including contacts and how to get involved:

Defence Team Employment Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Champions

Defence Team Employment Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Champions

Defence Team Employment Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI) Champions are appointed for their commitment to advancing the strategic and operational objectives of the EEDI Program.

These Champions collaborate with members from equity deserving groups and others across the organization to promote inclusive practices and innovative ideas. They are motivated to inspire others and help drive positive outcomes in the areas of employment equity, diversity, and inclusion.

There are six EEDI groups within the Defence Team:

• Women: LGen Jamie Speiser-Blanchet and Sophie Martel
• Persons with Disabilities: Gibby Armstrong and LGen Steve Boivin
• 2SLGBTQI+: Lara Rooke and BGen James Hawthorne
• Official Languages: MGen Martin Gros-Jean and Geneviève Binet
• Indigenous Peoples: Peter Hammerschmidt and LGen Michael Wright
• Racialized Persons: RAdm Jacques Olivier and Natasha Kim

Defence Advisory Groups (DAGs)

Defence Advisory Groups (DAGs)

Defence Advisory Groups (DAGs) provide advice to senior leadership on issues affecting designated groups and help shape policies and programs that promote equity and inclusion.

There is a DAG for each of the designated groups identified in the Employment Equity Act: Women, Indigenous Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, and Visible Minorities. In 2020, the Defence Team established a fifth DAG to represent 2SLGBTQI+ members.

• Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG)
• Defence Racialized Persons Advisory Group (DRPAG)
• Defence Women’s Advisory Organization (DWAO)
• Defence Advisory Group for Persons with Disabilities (DAGPWD)
• Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO)

DAGs operate at both the national and local levels, and participation is a voluntary secondary duty. For more information about the DAGs, please contact: DAGSecretariat-SecretariatGCD@forces.gc.ca.

Employee Networks

Employee Networks

These are voluntary groups that bring together members with shared identities or experiences to connect, share perspectives, and promote awareness. Some active networks include:

• Defence Team Black Employees Network (DTBEN)
  • Contacts: DTBEN-RENED@forces.gc.ca
• Defence Team Canadian Asian Network (DTCAN)
  • Contact: DTCAN-RACED@forces.gc.ca
• Defence Team Transgender Employees Network (DTTEN)
  • Contact: DTTEN-RETED@forces.gc.ca
• Defence Team Manager’s Network (DTMN)
  • Contact: DefenceTeamMN-RGEquipeDeLaDefense@forces.gc.ca
• Defence Team Young Professionals Network (DTYPN)
  • Contact: YoungProfessionalsNetwork-ReseauDeJeunesProfessionnels@forces.gc.ca

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Q.8What services does the Department of National Defence provide for conflict resolution?

A.8Information regarding conflict resolution can be found on the Conflict Solutions and Services web page.

The Conflict and Complaint Management Services (CCMS) network offers confidential support to Defence Team members who are experiencing conflict or considering filing a formal complaint.

You can contact the CCMS Centre closest to your regional geographic location for assistance.

Each CCMS site offers a range of services such as conflict coaching, facilitated discussions, mediation, and advice on formal complaint processes.

For more information or to locate your nearest CCMS Centre, visit the CCMS website.

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Q.9What access do Canadian Coast Guard employees have to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services programs, CAF facilities, and CF One benefits?

A.9

• Access to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) Programs
• Access to Canadian Armed Forces facilities
• Why access is restricted?

Access to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) Programs

Access to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) Programs

Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) employees transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) are public service employees and, as such, are recognized as part of the “Extended Defence and Security Team,” alongside their DND public service colleagues, Non-Public Funds staff, Military Family Resource Centre staff, Communications Security Establishment staff, Defence Construction Canada employees, Royal Canadian Mounted Police members, and Honourary Colonels.

They have the same access to CFMWS programs—such as fitness, sport, and health promotion—as others in this category.

Access to Canadian Armed Forces facilities

Access to Canadian Armed Forces facilities

Public service employees have limited access to certain Canadian Armed Forces facilities. They are not permitted to use facilities or programs funded through non-public property (NPP)—such as those supported by sponsorships and donations—unless they hold a paid membership. Access policies vary by base depending on how programs are funded.

Why access is restricted?

Why access is restricted?

Restrictions on public service employee access to NPP-funded programs stem from rules governing the use of non-public property.

CF One Benefits for CCG employees

CCG personnel and identified DFO employees transferred to DND remain eligible for CF One benefits as members of the Extended Defence and Security Team. Full eligibility details: CF One Eligibility | CFMWS.

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Q.10Can employees in the National Capital Region continue using the Fisheries and Oceans Canada mailroom at 200 Kent in Ottawa for our mailing needs?

A.10 The Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) mailroom will continue to provide service for the time being and we will update you of any changes.

Note that as of October 14, 2025, the DFO Mail Room permanently relocated to Room 006 on the main floor of 200 Kent Street. All mail and packages will be processed from this location moving forward. Please inform all clients, suppliers, and external partners of this change of address to maintain uninterrupted mail delivery.

For any questions or assistance, please reach out to the DFO Mail Room team: dfo.ncrmailroom-salledecourrierrcn.mpo@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Q.1What is the Public Service Performance Management (PSPM) process for those employees who have transferred to DND?

A.1Canadian Coast Guard personnel and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) internal service employees (non-executive) who have transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND): Your mid-year performance agreement must be completed with your DFO manager.

Following the completion of your mid-year review, your DFO manager will need to release you in the myEmployees application by October 31, 2025. Once released and your profile in TAP has been updated to reflect your status as a DND employee, your DND manager will be able to select you in the portal and complete all future reviews.

Canadian Coast Guard Specific Questions

Q.1Will the Canadian Coast Guard replace Transport Canada issued certificates of competency with its own internal qualification system for seagoing personnel? If so, will this change also involve moving from Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping–aligned training to Department of National Defence-specific training objectives?

A.1There are no plans to move away from Transport Canada–issued certifications for Canadian Coast Guard seagoing personnel at this time. Training such as Marine Emergency Duties, which follow international Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping standards will continue to be used.

Q.1When is the transition to the Department of National Defence’s SAP Financial System expected to take place?

A.1Senior leadership and planning teams are evaluating options for the transfer to the Department of National Defence’s SAP Financial System. The earliest possible implementation date could be in the 2027‑2028 fiscal year, however, this timeline is subject to change as planning progresses. Any updates to this timeline and the associated impacts on users will be communicated.

Q.2What does this mean for how we use the SAP Financial System today?

A.2There is currently no change to how the SAP Financial System is used. All existing functions, including travel, asset tracking, materiel management, and related business processes, will continue to operate as per usual.

Q.3Do I need to use a new travel system for submitting travel requests or claims?

A.3For Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel or identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) employees transferred to the Department of National Defence (DND) and reporting to the same manager (who is also formerly a DFO employee):

• You must continue using DFO’s SAP Financial System and the DFO Travel System (NEO) if you both still have a DFO-issued laptop. Processes for requesting travel approvals and submitting in NEO remain the same for all travel-related forms and claims.

For identified DFO internal services employees transferred to DND and now reporting directly to a new DND supervisor or manager:

• Travel and expense approvals must be obtained manually from your DND manager. To do this, complete the Travel Request and Approval Form (available only on the DFO-CCG network) and obtain your new manager’s approval.
• These approvals must then be uploaded to NEO for processing.

A formal business process is being developed to outline all required steps for submitting travel requests and expenses.

Q.4What if I need a new work credit card for travel or purchases?

A.4As we are still operating under Fisheries and Oceans Canda’s (DFO) SAP Financial System, the current process remains in place to request an Individual Designated Travel Card or Acquisitions card.

Please submit your application for the appropriate card through DFO channels and continue to select DFO as the department name on the application form, until further notice.

Q.5My NEO travel expense claim hasn’t been reimbursed – what should I do?

A.5There is a known issue with Travel Authority Numbers being entered incorrectly in NEO. When this occurs, reimbursement files are delayed until corrections are made. Fisheries and Oceans Canada Accounting Operations is aware of the issue and will provide further guidance when available.