Holiday season invitations – Guidance for Defence Team members

December 2, 2025 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:00

During the holiday season, DND/CAF personnel may receive invitations from defence contractors to attend receptions or celebrations. Contractors may also send gifts or host virtual events instead of in-person gatherings. Regardless of format, accepting invitations or gifts from contractors must follow the rules outlined in the CDS Memorandum and DAOD 7021-3.

Key points to remember:

• The CDS Memorandum highlights that holiday events such as galas and receptions require oversight to ensure proper management visibility.
• DAOD 7021-3 states that any gift, hospitality, or benefit above a "minimal value", which can be defined as a modest token of appreciation or light refreshment at official events, must be approved in writing by the appropriate authority:
  • DM or CDS approval (for requests from personnel at Level 1 such as Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) or ADM-equivalent)
  • L1/ADM or ADM-equivalent approval (for personnel in the National Capital Region)
  • L2/DG or DG-equivalent approval (for personnel outside the NCR)

Attendance at holiday events is allowed if the event meets the criteria in DAOD 7021-3. However, lavish events—such as dinners at upscale venues—require prior written approval.

Important: Defence Team members must not participate in prize draws organized by contractors if the prize value exceeds the "minimal value" threshold.

For any questions, please contact the Conflict-of-Interest Section.