Supplementary Information Tables 2023-24 Departmental Plan: Health Canada
Table of contents
- Details on Transfer Payment Programs
- Transfer Payment Programs of $5 Million or More
- Canada Brain Research Fund Program
- Canadian Thalidomide Survivors Support Program
- Contribution to Canada Health Infoway
- Contribution to Improve Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
- Contribution to the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health
- Contribution to the Canadian Institute for Health Information
- Contribution to the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer
- Funding to Address Anti-Indigenous Racism in Health Care
- Health Care Policy and Strategies Program
- Improving Affordable Access to Prescription Drugs Program
- Mental Health Commission of Canada Contribution Program
- National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Diseases Program
- Official Languages Health Program
- Organs, Tissues, and Blood Program
- Strengthening Canada's Home and Community Care and Mental Health and Addiction Services Initiative
- Substance Use and Addictions Program
- Transfer Payment Programs under $5 Million
- Transfer Payment Programs of $5 Million or More
- Gender-Based Analysis Plus
- Section 1: Institutional GBA Plus capacity
- Section 2: Highlights of GBA Plus results reporting capacity by program
- Core responsibility 1 Program Inventory (PI) redesign SGBA Plus improvement
- Program 1: Responsive health care systems program
- Program 2: Healthy People and Communities Program
- Program 3: Quality health science, data and evidence program
- Program 4: Pharmaceutical drugs
- Program 5: Biologic and radiopharmaceutical drugs
- Program 6: Medical devices
- Program 7: Natural health products
- Program 8: Food and nutrition
- Program 9: Air quality
- Program 10: Climate change
- Program 11: Water quality
- Program 12: Health impacts of chemicals
- Program 13: Consumer product safety
- Program 14: Workplace hazardous products
- Program 15: Tobacco control
- Program 16: Controlled substances
- Program 17: Cannabis
- Program 18: Radiation protection
- Program 19: Pesticides
- Program 20: Health Canada specialized services
- Horizontal initiatives
- United Nations 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 3 Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
- SDG 6 Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
- SDG 11 Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
- SDG 12 Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
- SDG 13 Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
Details on Transfer Payment Programs
Transfer Payment Programs of $5 Million or More
Canada Brain Research Fund Program
Start date
April 1, 2011
End date
March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canada has modern and sustainable health care systems
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 3: Quality Health Science, Data & Evidence
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
Through Budgets 2011, 2016, and 2019, and a subsequent funding renewal in 2021, the Government of Canada committed up to $200 million, to be matched by non-federal government donors, for the Canada Brain Research Fund Program. The Program provides funding for the Brain Canada Foundation (Brain Canada) which fundraises to match the federal contribution with donations from its private and charitable-sector donors and partners. The Government of Canada's objectives in funding the Canada Brain Research Fund are: 1) to serve as a focal point for private investment in brain research by attracting private and charitable donations to match federal funding; and 2) to support research that advances knowledge of the brain through awards to researchers.
Expected results
Funding for brain research is expected to lead to discoveries that will inform the development of prevention, diagnostic, therapeutic, clinical, technological and health system solutions for brain diseases/disorders. Ultimately, these advances are expected to improve the health and quality of life of Canadians who are at risk of or affected by brain diseases/disorders. To contribute to this outcome, the recipient (Brain Canada), in partnership with donors and private organizations, funds merit-based research awards across Canada. Team awards bring together teams of scientists from different disciplines to advance innovative science on the brain and brain diseases/disorders, while platform awards promote efficient sharing and access to equipment, expertise and/or data across research networks. Capacity building awards are dedicated to building the next generation of Canadian brain researchers through salary support and training; and knowledge translation, exchange and mobilization awards support the mobilization of knowledge generated from research to create evidence-based tools and resources. These investments align with Health Canada's mandate to strengthen the health care system, ensuring that it can: adapt to new challenges posed by the evolving needs of an aging population; harness advances in health technology; and ease the long-term care burden among the diverse population groups affected by neurological conditions.
Strategic priorities for Brain Canada in 2023-24 remain consistent with research themes that address essential priorities for a healthier Canada. These priorities are: brain health, neurodegeneration, and mental health. In 2023-24, Brain Canada will expand its investment in knowledge mobilization, including through targeted research awards. It will also continue to advance equity, diversity and inclusion throughout its organizational policies and activities, including the research selection processes, as well as by funding research initiatives seeking to improve health outcomes for diverse groups.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2021-22
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
The timing for the evaluation will be determined during the development of a future Departmental Evaluation Plan.
General targeted recipient groups
The sole target recipient is the national non-profit organization Brain Canada, which acts as a third-party organization that raises and disburses funds for brain research. Brain Canada allocates awards to researchers across Canada targeting research institutes, hospitals and health charities.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with Brain Canada staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $20,282,787Table 1 Footnote * | $23,359,164 | $15,173,697 | $3,393,089 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $20,282,787 | $23,359,164 | $15,173,697 | $3,393,089 |
Canadian Thalidomide Survivors Support Program
Start date
March 21, 2019
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2018-19
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Program objectives are to ensure that, for the remainder of their lives, eligible thalidomide survivors:
- Receive ongoing tax-free payments based on their level of disability; and
- Have transparent and timely access to the Extraordinary Medical Assistance Fund.
Expected results
Expected results are that thalidomide survivors will access care, treatment and/or support which in turn will contribute to their aging with dignity.
In 2023-24, the third-party administrator will continue to engage directly with recognized thalidomide survivors through an annual survey. Based on survivor feedback, the administrator will enhance and streamline processes to reduce burden on survivors and increase awareness and access to available supports.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2019-20
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2024-25
General targeted recipient groups
Canadian not-for-profit and for-profit organizations are eligible for funding. Until 2025-26, the sole targeted recipient is Epig Class Action Services Canada Ltd.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with Epig Class Action Services Canada Ltd., a third party administrator of Canadian Thalidomide Survivors Support Program, on behalf of the individual survivors and/or their families to discuss the Program progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $17,884,332 | $12,934,195 | $13,218,882 | $14,790,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $17,884,332 | $12,934,195 | $13,218,882 | $14,790,000 |
Contribution to Canada Health Infoway
Start date
April 1, 2016
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canada has modern and sustainable health care systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
Canada Health Infoway (Infoway) is an independent, not-for-profit corporation that is federally funded to work with jurisdictions and other stakeholders to support the development and adoption of digital health technologies across Canada. Between 2001 and 2010, the Government of Canada invested $2.1 billion in Infoway, through grants or up-front multi-year funding, to focus on electronic health records and other priorities in digital health. Budget 2016 allocated $50 million over two years to Infoway to support digital health activities in e-prescribing and telehomecare, with the funds flowing through a Contribution Agreement. Budget 2017 allocated $300 million over five years to Infoway to expand e-prescribing and virtual care initiatives, support the continued adoption and use of electronic medical records, help patients to access their own health records electronically, and better link electronic health record systems to improve access by all providers and institutions. In addition, Budget 2019 provided $36.5 million over five years with $5 million per year ongoing, for Infoway and the Canadian Institute for Health Information to support the creation of a pan-Canadian data and performance reporting system for Organ Donation and Transplantation. Finally, in 2020, Infoway was allocated a contribution of $50 million over two years to support provinces, and territories to expand virtual health services to Canadians. At this time, planned federal contributions to Infoway for 2023-24 and beyond are focused on the advancement of pan-Canadian standards to support the interoperability of electronic medical records, continuing to advance e-prescribing and a performance reporting system for Organ Donation and Transplant.
Expected results
Canada Health Infoway will be expected to collaborate with provincial/territorial (P/T) governments and stakeholders to contribute towards advancing digital health technologies and health information by increasing access through infrastructure expansion; equipping health care providers and patients with the knowledge and skills required to utilize this technology and information, and engaging on and creating standards to support common approaches. Over time, this work is expected to lead to: health care providers being able to use digital health technologies to provide more efficient and high quality health care; increase access and exchange of electronic health information; and enable Canadians to use digital health technologies to manage and/or improve their health. The Program will ultimately lead to a more modern and sustainable health care system where Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health care.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
Infoway is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with Infoway staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $48,499,000 | $8,770,000 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $48,499,000 | $8,770,000 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
Contribution to Improve Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
Start date
March 31, 2021
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2020-21
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canada has modern and sustainable health care systems
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
Through Healthcare Excellence Canada (HEC), the Program supports the federal government's interest in achieving an accessible, high quality, sustainable and accountable health system adaptable to the needs of Canadians. HEC works to: find and promote innovators and innovations, drive the rapid adoptions and spread of quality and safety innovations, build capabilities to enable excellence in healthcare and catalyze policy change. HEC will focus its work on care of older adults with health and social needs, care that is closer to home and community with safe transitions, and pandemic recovery and resilience.
Expected results
In the short-term, HEC's work will contribute to: spreading promising innovations, sustaining meaningful relationships with those HEC works with and assisting in preparing health leaders to lead improvement efforts. In the medium-term, HEC's work will contribute to: assisting the settings represented by the intermediaries HEC reaches (e.g. long-term care facilities, primary care facilities) in employing evidence-informed practices, implementing policy changes to catalyze health quality and patient safety improvement and developing cultures conducive to improvement. Ultimately, HEC's work will contribute to sustaining, spreading and scaling improvements as well as assisting settings reached by HEC in providing high-quality, safe, patient-orientated and culturally safe care. In 2023-24, HEC will expand its efforts on three key priorities: re-imagining care with – and for – older adults with health and social needs; providing care closer to home and community with safe transitions; and contributing to pandemic recovery and health system resilience.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
Healthcare Excellence Canada is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with HEC staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 | $24,600,000 |
Contribution to the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health
Start date
April 1, 2008
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2020-21
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canada has modern and sustainable health care systems
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) is an independent, not-for-profit agency funded by Canadian federal, provincial, and territorial (F/P/T) governments to provide credible, impartial and evidence-based information about the clinical/cost-effectiveness and optimal use of drugs and other health technologies to Canadian health care decision makers.
The purpose of the contribution agreement is to provide financial support for CADTH's core business activities, namely, pharmaceutical Reimbursement Reviews, Health Technology Assessments and Optimal Use Projects. Through these activities, CADTH is able to create and disseminate evidence-based information enabling health system partners to make informed decisions on the adoption and appropriate utilization of drugs and non-drug technologies, in terms of both effectiveness and cost.
Expected results
Additional funding announced in Budget 2017 is supporting CADTH's ongoing transition to a health technology management organization in order to deliver results that better meet the needs of the healthcare system. Additional funding was also provided to CADTH starting in 2022-23 to implement its Post-Market Drug Evaluation program to enhance its capacity to generate and disseminate real world post-market safety and effectiveness evidence on drugs.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health, an independent, not-for-profit agency is the sole recipient of transfer payment funds.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with CADTH staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $31,248,352 | $37,802,678 | $40,902,678 | $34,202,678 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $31,248,352 | $37,802,678 | $40,902,678 | $34,202,678 |
Contribution to the Canadian Institute for Health Information
Start date
April 1, 1999
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2017-18
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 3: Quality Health Science, Data & Evidence
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) receives federal funding to provide comparable and actionable data and information that are used to accelerate improvements in health care, health system performance and population health across Canada. CIHI's broad range of health system databases, measurements and standards, together with its evidence-based reports and analyses, are widely used by stakeholders in their decision-making processes. Further, CIHI protects the privacy of Canadians by ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of its health care information.
Between 1994 and 2018, the Government of Canada allocated approximately $1.232 billion to CIHI through a series of contribution agreements. Over the past six years (2017-18 to 2022-23), CIHI received over $475 3 million under the current agreement, including targeted funding such as:
- $53 million over 5 years, starting in 2017-18, to address health data gaps and support improved decision-making on health system priorities
- $140,000 in 2019 to undertake an environmental scan of data gaps for addiction treatment services and an additional $500,000 to initiate a collaborative pan-Canadian Organ Donation and Transplantation (ODT) Data and Performance Reporting System ($200,000 of this funding was subsequently allocated to Canada Health Infoway to enable joint work);
- $3.4 million in 2020 to advance the second year activities of the ODT Data and Performance Reporting System project ($1.9 million of this funding was subsequently allocated to Canada Health Infoway to enable joint work);
- $3.7 million in 2021 to advance year three of the ODT Data and Performance Reporting project, including the development of indicators and standards, a data repository, and expanded reporting and tools to access data;
- $3.5 million to meet priority data needs for public health data management during the pandemic as part of the Safe Restart Agreement in 2020-21;
- $1.7 million in 2022-23 to address health workforce data gaps and support development of workforce planning data and tools in addition to expanding work on drug data planning.
Health Canada funds approximately 80% of CIHI's total budget, while P/T governments contribute 18%. The remaining funds are generated largely through product sales.
Expected results
CIHI will continue to address data gaps in priority areas, including primary care, home and community care, long-term care, mental health care and addictions, hospital and emergency room capacity and virtual care in 2023-24. CIHI will also continue to support the creation of a pan-Canadian data and reporting system for organ donation and transplantation, launch a physician resource-planning tool, enhance pan-Canadian health workforce supply data, and expand drug data planning. Funding allows CIHI to provide essential information on Canada's health care systems. CIHI's data is used to accelerate improvements in health care, health system performance and population health across the continuum of care. CIHI's stakeholders use the broad range of the Institute's health system databases, measurements, and standards, together with their evidence-based reports and analyses, in their decision-making processes. CIHI protects the privacy of Canadians by ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of the health care information they provide.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
CIHI is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with CIHI staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $99,524,479 | $107,724,479 | $93,458,979 | $92,658,979 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $99,524,479 | $107,724,479 | $93,458,979 | $92,658,979 |
Contribution to the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer
Start date
April 1, 2007
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2020-21
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) is an arm's-length, not-for-profit organization that was established in 2007 by the Government of Canada. CPAC's mandate is to mobilize partners across the country to reduce the burden of cancer through coordinated, system-level change through the implementation of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (the Strategy).
The Strategy is an overarching framework for a comprehensive Canadian cancer control program. The work of the Strategy spans the spectrum of cancer control, from research, prevention and detection to treatment, survivorship and end-of-life care.
Developed in consultation with Canadians, including cancer experts and stakeholders, the Strategy's objectives include:
- Reducing the expected number of new cases of cancer among Canadians.
- Enhancing the quality of life of those living with cancer.
- Lessening the likelihood of Canadians dying from cancer.
CPAC is fully funded by the Government of Canada, with Budget 2016 confirming ongoing funding at $47.5 million per year. Health Canada is responsible for managing CPAC's funding which included $250 million (2007 to 2012), $241 million (2012 to 2017), $237.5 million (2017-22), and $237.5 million (2023-28). Given pandemic related delays, CPAC was granted a one-year extension to its 2017-22 Contribution Agreement with Health Canada, to March 31, 2023, to complete work (2028 instead of 2027) that was planned, but unable to be completed.
Expected results
With funding from the federal government, CPAC continues to work collaboratively with stakeholders to accelerate the uptake of evidence across the cancer control continuum to improve both practice and policy to lessen the burden of cancer. A coordinated, knowledge-centered approach to cancer control is expected to reduce the economic burden of cancer, alleviate pressures on the health system, and bring together information for all Canadians, no matter where they live.
CPAC will enhance cancer control through knowledge management and the coordination of efforts among the provinces and territories, cancer experts, stakeholder groups, and Indigenous organizations to champion change, improve health outcomes related to cancer, and leverage existing investments.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with CPAC staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $47,500,000 | $47,500,000 | $47,500,00 | $47,500,00 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $47,500,000 | $47,500,000 | $47,500,000 | $47,500,000 |
Funding to Address Anti-Indigenous Racism in Health Care
Start date
January 28, 2022
End date
March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada's Health Systems Program aims to address systemic racism and discrimination in Canada's health systems to advance Health Canada's overall mandate to help everyone in Canada maintain and improve their health by striving to ensure high quality health services are efficient and accessible, and by reducing health inequalities.
The objectives of the Program are to address systemic racism and discrimination and advance health equity for racialized and marginalized populations in Canada's health systems. To achieve its objectives, the Program will provide support to eligible organizations through two distinct streams of funding:
- Project stream: To improve the safety, accessibility, equity, quality, sustainability, and accountability of Canada's health systems, investments will be made in systems-level projects that address racism and discrimination perpetrated against racialized and/or marginalized populations.
- Engagement stream: To maintain strong and effective publicly funded health systems through the development of policies and strategies that address evolving health priorities, investments will be made to build capacity within racialized and/or marginalized communities and organizations that serve racialized and/or marginalized populations to enable them to meaningfully engage on their health priorities to ensure that their priorities and perspectives are adequately considered by health-decision makers.
Expected results
The Program has been designed to support immediate actions to address anti-Indigenous racism through two distinct streams of funding, while the development of a longer-term approach is underway.
Ultimately, it is anticipated that (1) health system partners will be enabled to provide more inclusive and culturally safe services to racialized and marginalized populations, and (2) there will be a reduction in systemic racism and discrimination resulting from a lack of consideration of racialized and marginalized populations' voices. To contribute to these outcomes, the Project Stream will provide funding to eligible organizations to develop, implement, and/or test solutions or awareness products that will address the safety, equity, accessibility, quality, cultural-appropriateness, and accountability of health services, while the Engagement Stream will provide funding to eligible organizations to engage, consult, and collaborate to elevate their voices, perspectives, needs, concerns, priorities and knowledge to health system decision-makers.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not Applicable.
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not Applicable.
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
The timing for the evaluation will be determined during the development of a future Departmental Evaluation Plan.
General targeted recipient groups
The following groups of recipients are eligible for funding under the Program:
- Not-for-profit organizations and charities
- Indigenous recipients, including governments, communities, and organizations
- Academia and public institutions
- Municipal, P/T governments and their health systems service providers and associations
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with recipients to discuss Program progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A |
Total contributions | $4,600,000 | $9,300,000 | 0 | N/A |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A |
Total program | $4,600,000 | $9,300,000 | 0 | N/A |
Health Care Policy and Strategies Program
Start date
September 24, 2002
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canadians have modern and sustainable health care systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Program 3: Quality Health Science, Data & Evidence
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Health Care Policy and Strategies Program, provides time-limited contribution funding for projects that aim to improve the accessibility, quality, sustainability, and accountability of Canada's health care system. The program supports the federal government's commitment to maintain a strong and effective publicly funded health care system. The program's four priority areas are: mental health care;', home and community care;', palliative and end-of-life care, and other F/P/T and emerging priorities. The program will continue to support the Terry Fox Research Initiative, Ovarian Cancer Canada, Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund, palliative care and medical assistance in dying (MAID), and mental health standards.
Expected results
Program funding will support a wide range of projects designed to ultimately contribute to improvements in the accessibility, quality, sustainability and accountability of the health care system. These improvements could ultimately benefit either specific target populations, or all Canadians. For example, projects that produce and transfer knowledge in key areas will help improve Canada's health care systems and advance health policy. Other projects will identify, develop, implement, assess and promote new or modified tools, approaches and best practices that respond to identified health care system priorities and promote people-centred health care. Another range of projects will identify, develop, implement, assess and promote training, skills development, standards, products and technological solutions that will help modernize health care systems delivery.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
Non-profit non-governmental organizations, and other levels of government (provincial, territorial and local).
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with staff and senior management of the various recipient groups to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreements, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $88,806,533 | $99,445,773 | $80,483,729 | 68,486,654 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $88,806,533 | $99,445,773 | $80,483,729 | 68,486,654 |
Improving Affordable Access to Prescription Drugs Program
Start date
August 11, 2021
End date
March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The purpose is to expand Prince Edward Island's public formulary and improve the affordability of its public drug plans to levels more comparable to those of other provinces and territories. Insights and lessons learned from this initiative may be used to inform the future implementation of national pharmacare.
Expected results
Expected immediate results include an increased understanding of public drug coverage differences among provinces and territories, and an increased capacity to implement changes to public drug plans. Intermediate results include identifying prescription drugs that are more affordable for residents, as well as, the residents having access to a list of prescription drugs that better meet their needs, and public drug plans. In the long-term, the Program will result in improved alignment across P/T public drug plans and increase the knowledge to inform future decisions by all levels of government on the implementation of national pharmacare.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups
Government of Prince Edward Island
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials continues to undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with the responsible PEI staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada continues to monitor the recipient's compliance with the letter of intent, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $10,700,000 | $10,700,000 | $10,700,000 | 0 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $10,700,000 | $10,700,000 | $10,700,000 | 0 |
Mental Health Commission of Canada Contribution Program
Start date
April 1, 2017
End date
March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), an arm's length, not-for-profit organization, was established in March 2007 with a ten-year mandate to improve health and social outcomes for people and their families living with mental illness. Between 2007 and 2017, the Government of Canada invested $130 million in the MHCC through a grant, to develop a mental health strategy for Canada, conduct an anti-stigma campaign and create a knowledge exchange centre. In 2016, the MHCC's mandate was renewed for a 10-year period, from 2017-18 to 2026-27 to advance work on mental health priorities, including linkages to substance use, suicide prevention, support for at-risk populations and engagement. The Government of Canada has made a contribution of $14.25 million per year since 2017-18 for these mandated priority areas.
Expected results
The Mental Health Commission of Canada Contribution Program is expected to contribute to the improved mental health and well-being of Canadians, specifically in the areas of problematic substance use, suicide prevention, and stigma reduction.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2018-19
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with MHCC staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 | $14,250,000 |
National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Diseases Program
Start date
December 13, 2022
End date
March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2022-23
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Responsive Healthcare Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The purpose of the Program is to achieve better health outcomes for patients with rare diseases by providing funding to willing jurisdictions to improve access to drugs for rare diseases (DRD), broadening rare disease treatments and services, and building national DRD governance and data infrastructure elements. The objectives of the Program are to seek national consistency, support patient outcomes and system sustainability, collect and use evidence, and invest in innovation.
Expected results
Expected results include improved collaboration across public drug plans for national consistency in patient access to DRD. Over time, this work is expected to lead to Canadians with rare diseases having nationally consistent access to more affordable drugs together with better data and information on DRD and health services related to rare diseases. The Program will ultimately lead to Canadians with rare diseases and their families having improved health and access to health care.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
The timing for the evaluation will be determined during the development of a future Departmental Evaluation Plan.
General targeted recipient groups
Provincial and Territorial Governments
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
As part of the implementation of the Strategy Health Canada officials will work with a broad range of stakeholders including Provinces and Territories, patients and patient groups, the pharmaceutical industry, and others to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the Funding Agreements, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | 0 | 468,774,452 | 468,774,452 | 0 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | 0 | 468,774,452 | 468,774,452 | 0 |
* These amounts will be allocated to provinces and territories using funding approaches outlined in bilateral agreements fora "base plus per capita" determination using population estimates from Statistics Canada. |
Official Languages Health Program
Start date
June 18, 2003
End date
Ongoing (Contribution)
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2018-19
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Official Languages Health Program has a total budget of $191.2 million over five years (2018-23), and $38.46 million per year ongoing after the 2022-23 fiscal year. The Program supports the federal government's commitment to maintain a strong and effective publicly funded health care system by ensuring that official language minority communities (OLMCs) have access to health services in the official language of their choice. Through the implementation of contribution agreements and micro-grants, Health Canada supports investments that improve the active offer of health services for OLMCs, through training and retention of health care providers, networking activities and innovative projects that increase access to health services for OLMCs.
Expected results
Program funding will support training and retention of health professionals, health networking and innovative projects to improve access to health services for OLMCs. These activities are expected to increase access to bilingual health professionals in OLMCs, and to increase the active offer of health services in the minority official language to address the health needs to OLMCs.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2022-23
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2026-27
General targeted recipient groups
Eligible recipients under the program are individuals, non-profit entities, provincially-accredited postsecondary institutions and P/T government bodies.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with recipients to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $37,600,000 | $37,400,000 | $37,400,000 | $37,600,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $37,600,000 | $37,400,000 | $37,400,000 | $37,600,000 |
Organs, Tissues, and Blood Program
Start date
April 1, 2000
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 2: Healthy People and Communities
Program 3: Quality Health Science, Data & Evidence
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Organs, Tissues, and Blood Program provides support for safe, effective, accessible and responsive organ, tissue and blood systems that will improve and extend the quality of the lives of Canadians while respecting federal, provincial, and territorial scopes of authority. Canadian Blood Services (CBS) is the sole recipient of the Program funding.
Expected results
With the support of the Organs, Tissues and Blood Program, CBS is expected to generate numerous knowledge products and learning events and to play a role in public education, engagement and awareness. It also plays a significant role in training highly qualified people in important areas such as basic and applied research. CBS develops collaborative arrangements, establishes partnerships and identifies and responds to emerging issues related to organ, tissue and blood systems, in collaboration with the provinces and territories as appropriate.
Various stakeholders, including Health Canada, use the knowledge generated by blood research and development projects and organ donation and transplantation projects to inform changes to practices and standards. This will contribute to greater safety, effectiveness, accessibility and responsiveness of the organ, tissue and blood systems to improve and extend the quality of lives of Canadians.
Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation
This Program is expected to continue to support CBS to work with partners and stakeholders to influence and improve system performance through development and dissemination of leading practices, professional and public education, engagement and awareness materials. CBS is a member of the Organ Donation and Transplantation Collaborative, and will continue to focus on the priorities identified by the Collaborative such as supporting a pan-Canadian governance framework and a pan-Canadian data and performance reporting system.
Blood research and development
In this context, "blood" includes whole blood and blood products, plasma and plasma products and their respective artificial and substitute products.
With support from the Program, CBS helps maintain and increase the safety, supply and efficiency of the Canadian blood system by advancing innovation and maintaining Canadian capacity in transfusion science and medicine. In 2023-24, CBS is expected to continue to foster research, facilitate dissemination and application of knowledge, educate the next generation of scientific and health care experts, and engage with an interdisciplinary network of partners in Canada and beyond.
Further, the Program will continue to support the construction and start-up of dedicated plasma collection sites across the country in order to increase domestic supply of plasma. This includes the renovation and fit-up of existing buildings, infrastructure changes/upgrades/remodeling and the purchase of equipment (such as plasmapheresis machines and freezers for storing collected plasma).
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2022-23
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2027-28 – Blood Research and Development
2025-26 – Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Program
General targeted recipient groups
Canada Blood Services is the sole recipient.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with Canadian Blood Services' staff and senior management to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $19,397,000 | $17,763,000 | $8,580,000 | $8,580,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $19,397,000 | $17,763,000 | $8,580,000 | $8,580,000 |
Strengthening Canada's Home and Community Care and Mental Health and Addiction Services Initiative
Start date
November 9, 2017
End date
March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 1: Health Care Systems
Result 1: Canada has modern and sustainable health care systems
Result 2: Canadians have access to appropriate and effective health services
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 1: Responsive Health Care Systems
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The Government of Canada is investing $11 billion over ten years (from 2017 to 2027) to support provinces and territories (PTs) to improve access to home and community care ($6 billion) and mental health and addictions ($5 billion) services in their jurisdictions, in accordance with the Common Statement of Principles for Shared Health Priorities (CSoP), which was jointly agreed to by F/P/T Ministers of Health (with the exception of Quebec) in August 2017.
Governments agreed to common objectives in each of home and community care and mental health and addiction services, and in particular to improving access to mental health and addictions through one or more of the following areas of action:
- Expanding access to community-based mental health and addiction services for children and youth (age 10-25), recognizing the effectiveness of early interventions to treat mild to moderate mental health disorders.
- Spreading evidence-based models of community mental health care and culturally-appropriate interventions that are integrated with primary health services.
- Expanding availability of integrated community-based mental health and addiction services for people with complex health needs.
Similarly, on home and community care, FPT governments agreed to work together to improve access to services through one or more of the following areas of action:
- Spreading and scaling evidence-based models of home and community care that are more integrated and connected to primary health care.
- Enhancing access to palliative and end-of-life care at home or in hospices;
- Increasing support for caregivers.
- Enhancing home care infrastructure, such as digital connectivity, remote monitoring technology and facilities for community based service delivery.
By endorsing the CSoP, PTs agreed to develop a focused set of common indicators to measure progress on these priority areas. Following agreement on the Common Statement of Principles for Shared Health Priorities in 2017, the federal government negotiated and signed bilateral agreements with all 13 provinces and territories which set out details of how each jurisdiction is using federal investments to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services over the first five years of investment. One-year extensions of the agreements were implemented for 2022-23. New agreements will be required for provinces and territories to access the remaining four years if this funding (2022-23 to 2026-27). The 2020 Fall Economic Statement provided an additional $1 billion to provinces and territories through the Safe Long-term Care Fund to support greater infection prevention and control in long-term care facilities and seniors' residences.
Budget 2021 outlined a further $3 billion investment over five years. ($600 million per year to ensure that provinces and territories can provide a high standard of care in their long-term care facilities. The GOC continues to work collaboratively with P/Ts to provide this support.)
Expected results
It is expected that through these investments Canadians will experience tangible improvements in access to home and community care as well as mental health and addictions services. This will lead to better health outcomes and a more sustainable health care system, as care is shifted from expensive hospital care to more patient-centric settings in the home and in the community. These investments could also have a broader, positive impact on Canada's economy, by making the health care system more sustainable in the long term, and by enhancing workforce productivity and social participation.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups
Provinces and Territories.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will engage regularly with Provinces and Territories to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 | $1,800,310,000 |
Note: These amounts will be allocated to provinces and territories using funding approaches outlined in bilateral agreements in combination with a per capita basis based on population estimates from Statistics Canada. |
Substance Use and Addictions Program
Start date
December 4, 2014
End date
Ongoing (Contribution)
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2018-19
Link to the departmental results
Core Responsibility 2: Health Protection and Promotion
Result 4: Canadians are protected from unsafe consumer and commercial products and substances
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 27: Tobacco Control
Program 28: Controlled Substances
Program 29: Cannabis
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
Health Canada's Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) provides grants and contributions funding to respond to drug and substance use issues. This funding is provided to other levels of government, community-led and not-for-profit organizations in Canada.
SUAP provides funding for a wide range of innovative and evidence-informed projects addressing problematic substance use prevention, harm reduction and treatment initiatives across the country. Projects target a range of psychoactive substances, including opioids, stimulants, cannabis, alcohol, nicotine and tobacco, at the community, regional and national levels.
Expected results
Health Canada provides contribution funding through SUAP in support of the Canadian Drug and Substance Strategy, as well as the delivery of three of the department's Programs: Cannabis, Tobacco Control and Controlled Substances.
In addition to funding many community, regional and national organizations, Health Canada also provides SUAP funding to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction to achieve national impact by advancing strategic partnerships, knowledge mobilization, and training and education for targeted populations in areas such as stigma reduction and the intersections between substance use and mental health.
It is expected that through these investments Canadians and stakeholders will have access to evidence- based information on substance use and increased availability of harm reduction, safer alternatives and treatment services. In the longer-term, this will lead to improved knowledge and skills and help Canadians make informed decisions about their health to reduce risk-taking behavior. Ultimately, these investments may contribute to reduced negative health impacts experienced by people who use drugs and substances.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
2022-23 Continuation
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24 - Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy
2025-26 - Health Portfiolio's Tobacco and Vaping Activities
2027-28 – Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis
General Targeted Recipient Groups
Community-based, Indigenous, regional and national non-profit organizations, including those in the health and education sectors; and, other levels of government and their agencies.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
SUAP applicants and recipients include not-for-profit organizations, provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous organizations, people with lived and living experience of substance use, universities, and many other groups. These groups are engaged through various methods, including stakeholder outreach, solicitation processes, project development discussions, and performance reporting and monitoring tools, processes and activities. Health Canada also supports knowledge translation and exchange opportunities between SUAP projects and other partners and stakeholders.
Health Canada will engage SUAP applicants on funding applications and work closely with successful organizations to shape their initiatives, monitor contribution agreements and obtain required performance measurement and evaluation reports. Of note, the department is also exploring the development of theme-based Communities of Practice (e.g. peer workers, chronic pain) with partners within and external to the federal government.
Health Canada officials will continue to undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with SUAP recipient groups to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipient's compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $182,295,391 | $136,634,149 | $75,375,876 | 35,990,774 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $182,295,391 | $136,634,149 | $75,375,876 | 35,990,774 |
Transfer Payment Programs under $5 Million
Chemicals Management Plan Engagement and Outreach Contribution Program
Start date
April 1, 2022
End date
March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2021-22
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 2: Health Protection and Promotion
Result 4: Canadians are protected from unsafe consumer and commercial products and substances
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 12: Health Impacts of Chemicals
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The purpose of this Program is to support the capacity of Canadians, with an emphasis on disproportionately impacted populations and Indigenous peoples, to engage in the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) and environmental health programs, allowing for a broad range of expertise and opinions to be heard and considered. The Program will also support partnerships to increase outreach to Canadians about environmental health issues, using tailored tools and messaging. This will include raising awareness of the impacts of chemicals on human health and how to reduce the risks.
Expected results
The expected results for this program are that (1) people in Canada, including Indigenous peoples and disproportionately affected subgroups, have improved capacity to participate in the implementation of the CMP and broader environmental health initiatives; and (2) funded communications provide Canadians, directly or via intermediaries, with information needed to minimize environmental health risks.
To contribute to the achievement of these outcomes, the Department will monitor information on progress from funding recipients provided as part of each contribution agreement. This information includes lists of engagement and information dissemination activities completed with contribution funding and descriptions of how funding recipients (1) participated in and supported the representation of disproportionately impacted populations in engagement opportunities; and (2) disseminated information to disproportionately impacted populations.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2023-24
General targeted recipient groups
For-profit organizations; not-for-profit organizations and charities; academia and public institutions; indigenous recipients; government; international (non-government); individuals; health service organizations, including Indigenous health organizations and community health centres.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with recipient groups to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting, both formally and informally, and solicit input on engagement activities at key points in the process. Applicant and recipient consultations will be structured to support the design of projects that will maximize reach and impact. Health Canada will also provide expertise and support throughout project delivery and performance measurement of results achieved, including engagement in the form of partnerships for outreach activities.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $468,000 | $468,000 | 0 | 0 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $468,000 | $468,000 | 0 | 0 |
Environmental Health Research Contribution Program
Start date
2023-24
End date
2026-27
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2022-23
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 2: Health Protection and Promotion
Result 4: Canadians are protected from unsafe consumer and commercial products and substances
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 12: Health Impacts of Chemicals
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The purpose of this Program is to build external capacity and research infrastructure by funding research activities on environmental pollutants, including microplastics, in order to improve the health and quality of life of Canadians.
Expected results
The expected results are:
- Research results are available to inform decision-making on the potential human health impacts of environmental pollutants.
These expected results will be measured by the following indicator:
Percentage of implicated federal decision-makers who indicate that they have more information available for consideration in evidence-based decision making related to impacts to human health or the environment from plastic pollution including microplastics (contribution program research).
Target: 70% by March 31, 2027
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable, because this is a new program.
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
The timing for the evaluation will be determined during the development of the next Departmental Evaluation Plan.
General targeted recipient groups
Non-government, not-for-profit organizations, academia and public institutions, including but not limited to:
- Educational institutions;
- Professional associations;
- P/T government agencies;
- Regional health authorities.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake appropriate communication (for example, meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with recipients to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial Information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | 0 | 538,580 | 538,580 | 538,580 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | 0 | 538,580 | 538,580 | 538,580 |
Radon Outreach Contribution Program
Start date
April 1, 2018
End date
Ongoing
Type of transfer payment
Contribution
Type of appropriation
Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2018-19
Link to the departmental result(s)
Core Responsibility 2: Health Protection and Promotion
Result 4: Canadians are protected from unsafe consumer and commercial products and substances
Link to the department's Program Inventory
Program 18: Radiation Protection
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The purpose of this Program is to protect and improve human health and well-being in Canada from the impacts of indoor radon exposure, by aiding in the education of Canadians about the importance of testing their homes, schools and workplaces for radon and reducing radon levels where necessary.
Expected results
The expected results are:
- Canadians and stakeholders are aware of strategies and tools to reduce exposure to radon; and
- Canadians and stakeholders are enabled to manage risk from exposure to radiation.
These expected results will be measured by the following indicators:
Percentage of Canadians surveyed who are knowledgeable about radon
Target: At least 65% by March 31, 2023
Percentage of Canadian homeowners surveyed who have tested their homes for radon
Target: 10% by March 31, 2026
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation
Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation
Not applicable
Fiscal year of next planned evaluation
2024-25
General targeted recipient groups
Not-for-profit organizations and charities; academia and public institutions; indigenous recipients; government; and professional associations.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients
Health Canada officials will undertake numerous exchanges (meetings, phone calls, e-mails and knowledge transfer activities) with recipient groups to discuss progress. In addition, Health Canada will continue to monitor the recipients' compliance with the contribution agreement, performance and results through the analysis and follow-up of progress, performance and financial reporting.
Financial information
Type of transfer payment | 2022–23 Forecast spending | 2023–24 Planned spending | 2024–25 Planned spending | 2025–26 Planned spending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total contributions | $250,000 | $350,000 | $350,000 | $350,000 |
Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total program | $250,000 | $350,000 | $350,000 | $350,000 |
Gender-Based Analysis Plus
Section 1: Institutional GBA Plus capacity
Health Canada is committed to systematically integrating sex, gender and diversity considerations into all of its activities through the application of quality Sex- and Gender-Based Analysis Plus (SGBA PlusFootnote 1). The renewal of both the Health Portfolio SGBA Plus Policy (Policy) and the Health Canada SGBA Plus Action Plan (Action Plan) in 2021-22 supports greater integration of equity, diversity and inclusion into all Health Canada initiatives, departmental culture and operations.
Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research all endorsed the Policy. In 2021-22, Health Canada led a process to renew the Policy on behalf of the Health Portfolio. This included reframing SGBA Plus to emphasize intersectional analyses and equity, diversity and inclusion considerations and to reflect coherence with other federal frameworks and priorities (anti-racism, accessibility, etc.). The Policy was also updated to acknowledge the importance of engaging with diverse partners in all activities and the need for culturally relevant application of SGBA Plus that adheres to principles of respecting the Government of Canada's relationship with Indigenous Peoples. The Policy includes all relevant identity factors as part of SGBA Plus (including, but not limited to, sex, gender, age, race, sexual orientation, etc.).
Health Canada's Action Plan provides a framework that strengthens the systematic integration of sex, gender and other intersectional factors in departmental work and decision-making while also supporting the Government of Canada's priorities on gender equality, diversity and inclusion. The Department has framed the Action Plan under the following three pillars:
- Accountability
- Knowledge and evidence
- Capacity and expertise
Priority areas under these pillars include:
- Increasing governance, accountability and transparency in the integration of SGBA Plus in the Department's decision making;
- Strengthening departmental SGBA Plus knowledge and capacity with enhanced learning opportunities, tools and resources to increase SGBA Plus competency;
- Developing strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance equity lenses and intersectional expertise in SGBA Plus;
- Enabling the collection and use of disaggregated data for rigour in intersectional analysis;
- Enhancing communications and guidance with clarity on SGBA Plus and intersectionality.
In 2023-24, the Department will continue to strengthen SGBA Plus integration, as part of the Action Plan, through the implementation of initiatives across the organization that are informed and developed through an intersectional lens.
Institutional leadership and support for SGBA Plus integration
Health Canada's SGBA Plus Centre of Excellence (SCOE) provides leadership for the implementation of SGBA Plus at Health Canada. The SCOE advises and collaborates with senior management, branch leads and colleagues to formulate responsive and inclusive health research, policies, regulations, services, programs, and other initiatives to promote greater health equity. In 2023-24, the SCOE will continue to:
- Provide dedicated support to Health Canada branches to assist in the development of branch-specific SGBA Plus integration plans to align with recommendations from the June 2021 Management Response and Action Plan: Evaluation of Health Canada's Sex and Gender Action Plan;
- Support the functioning of a departmental SGBA Plus Integration Network comprised of Assistant Deputy Minister-appointed branch representatives to lead, promote and support the systematic integration of SGBA Plus in their respective branch activities and organizational processes;
- Develop a Health Canada SGBA Plus learning path to support the development and delivery of a suite of enhanced SGBA Plus tools and learning products, including those specific to functional areas (e.g., regulations, science, policy, etc.) and branch priorities;
- Develop and support communications and learning opportunities that focus on a greater understanding of SGBA Plus and its associated concepts (e.g., diversity and inclusion, intersectionality, equity, etc.) and its application to the work of the department;
- Collaborate and engage with diversity and inclusion experts to support the objectives of the Policy and the Action Plan to integrate SGBA Plus through an intersectional lens;
- Provide guidance to branches and employees in support of the integration of SGBA Plus considerations in key policy documents;
- Promote and support SGBA Plus best practices, including the collection, use and analysis of disaggregated data for rigour in intersectional analyses;
- Engage with programs as part of Health Canada's annual review of program performance indicators. As part of this process, SCOE will continue to collaborate with programs to identify additional SGBA Plus data and new indicators to support analysis and reporting of impacts on gender and diversity; and
- Support departmental partners to ensure that, where possible, Health Canada information holdings are consistent with the TBS Policy Direction to Modernise the Government of Canada's Sex and Gender Information Practices.
Departmental SGBA Plus Integration Network - Enhanced governance and accountability will be achieved in 2023-24 with the support of the Health Canada SGBA Plus Integration Network. Consisting of branch head-appointed delegates, the Department established the Network in late 2021 to support culture change towards the systematic integration of SGBA Plus into all departmental activities.
Key initiatives in support of SGBA Plus integration
Canadian Community Health Survey – Health Canada will continue to work with CIHI and Statistics Canada to provide national-level sex and gender disaggregated data that support departmental initiatives, for example through targeted questions in the Canadian Community Health Survey. This data will be used to inform initiatives in the Responsive Health Care Systems Program and allow the Department to assess, monitor and report on their impact on diverse populations.
Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) – CPAC continues to support the implementation of the 2019-29 Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control. The Strategy calls for more practical research to gain a deeper understanding of barriers faced by specific groups, which will be done in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Metis governments, organizations and communities to ensure culturally relevant approaches and strategies. CPAC will contribute to this research and disaggregate data whenever possible to inform their programming, for example in developing First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples cancer plans.
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) – Changes to the federal legislation on MAID will require the Department to expand MAID data collection to include information about race, Indigenous identity and disability, with a view to using this information to help determine the presence of individual or systemic inequality or disadvantage in the context of MAID.
SGBA Plus Action Plan for Health Products – Health Canada will continue to further develop and implement its SGBA Plus Action Plan as it relates to the Department's Pharmaceutical Drugs Program (Program 4), Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Program (Program 5), Medical Devices Program (Program 6) and Natural Health Products Program (Program 7) to ensure that people in Canada have access to information that supports informed decision-making regarding treatment options, based on the safety and efficacy profiles of people like them.
Section 2: Highlights of GBA Plus results reporting capacity by program
Core responsibility 1 Program Inventory (PI) redesign SGBA Plus improvement
Effective 2023-24, Core Responsibility 1 (CR1) will see the fifteen Performance Information Profiles consolidated into three. The new structure allows for an enduring approach to performance reporting and results management in CR1 that is based on three thematic areas: Responsive Health Care Systems, Healthy People and Communities, and Quality Health Science, Data, and Evidence. Starting in 2023-24, Health Canada will also report on composite indicators that aggregate results from multiple programs. Results are provided by the Department's external partners that receive funding from transfer payment programs. The composite indicators will enable the Department to capture its impact across multiple initiatives and sub-populations. Partner data that contributes to composite indicators will be encouraged to report on the same data categories (e.g., sex, gender, age, geography) to support departmental reporting.
Over the coming fiscal years, Health Canada will review the data collection methodology associated with performance measures, including those related to SGBA Plus, to identify best practices and lessons learned about collecting disaggregated. Health Canada will be creating data collection tools and guidance documents to strengthen the harmonization of methodologies and data categories to improve SGBA Plus disaggregated data in reporting on composite indicators.
Program 1Footnote 2: Responsive health care systems program
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The following initiatives and transfer payment programs contribute to this program:
- Canada Health Act (CHA)
- Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) Monitoring Program
- Funding to the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)
- Funding to the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC)
- Organs and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Initiative under the Organs, Tissues and Blood Program
- Funding to Canadian Blood Services for organs and tissue donation and transplantation
- Funding to targeted projects for healthcare system improvements
- Department work on pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices
- Department work on home, community and palliative care, and long-term care
The Responsive Health Care Systems Program supports work undertaken to improve the capacity of and broad access to the Canadian healthcare system. Most of these initiatives under the Program collect data that support monitoring and reporting of program impacts by gender and other diversity factors, notably in the areas of MAID, cancer control, pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices, and targeted projects on healthcare system improvements. However, some initiatives have limited disaggregated data on diverse groups such as pan-Canadian data to support analysis and reporting on diversity in long-term care, home and palliative care or data on donors/patients of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. A better understanding of the Program's impact on diverse populations will help Health Canada to ensure that initiatives are appropriate and accessible for all people living in Canada. These data limitations stem from reliance on partner data and a lack of harmonized data methodology, making the regular collection and reporting of national data complex as well as expensive.
The Department often relies on provinces and territories (P/Ts), organizations that receive funding, and other partners to measure the results of Health Canada-funded initiatives and report on disaggregated data.
- The federal government provides targeted funding to P/T governments by way of the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities in the areas of mental health, home care and long-term care. As part of this funding, P/Ts agreed to work with the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) to report on a set of common indicators to measure pan-Canadian progress and committed to report to Canadians every year on this work. These indicators include some disaggregated data by gender and sub-populations and are available online. However, the data currently available can be difficult to compare across P/Ts due to differences in definitions, formats and reporting mechanisms.
- The federal government also relies on P/Ts and other health system partners for data on effective management of pharmaceuticals and medical devices which have varying degrees of SGBA Plus considerations and disaggregated data available.
- Recipient progress and performance reporting are a key source of evidence for disaggregated data and program impacts among diverse populations.
While data gaps remain, various health data initiatives are underway to seek improvements in the regular collection of disaggregated data.
Health Canada will continue to work with CIHI and Statistics Canada to provide national-level sex and gender disaggregated data that support departmental initiatives, for example through targeted questions in the Canadian Community Health Survey. This data will be used to inform initiatives in the Responsive Health Care Systems Program and allow the Department to assess, monitor and report on their impact on diverse populations. For example:
- In 2023-24, all committed indicators in the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities will have reported data publicly.
- CIHI will continue to collect demographic, clinical, and functional and resource utilization information on clients serviced by publicly funded home care programs in Canada through its Home Care Reporting system. This supports front-line planning and quality improvement at the point of care and supports planning/policy making.
Health Canada will continue to work with recipient organizations and encourage them to disaggregate their data by sex, gender and other identity factors related to their initiative, to the greatest extent possible. Recipient data will support the Department's capacity to perform SGBA analysis on the Program's impacts and inform decision-making to continually improve implementation. The following initiatives illustrate the work of the Department's recipient organizations on measuring diversity:
- Canada Health Infoway will examine and report on sex, gender and other identity factors differences in technology adoption, use and satisfaction levels among health care providers, patients and other users.
- CPAC will continue their commitment to addressing the diagnostic and treatment needs of men, women, girls, boys, and gender diverse Canadians in its SGBA Plus data collection plans and activities, where appropriate.
- CADTH will work with HC to build SGBA Plus indicators that are more relevant and capable of communicating CADTH's work through performance measurement and reporting.
- Canadian Blood Services (CBS) will continue to improve access to health information and organ donation and transplantation services for all Canadians, regardless of geography or income-level. They will work with Health Canada to strengthen the collection of SGBA Plus data as part of their performance measurement strategy.
To administer compliance with the Canada Health Act (CHA), Health Canada will draw on P/T government correspondence and publications, non-governmental organizations, media reports, and correspondence received from the public to monitor whether P/T health insurance plans are providing access to insured health services without direct charges at the point of service to all sub-populations. In addition to the administration of the CHA, the same information sources will used to inform the Department's understanding of insured and non-insured health care services available to certain groups, for example access to gender-affirming care and reproductive health services.
Health Canada will continue to improve and expand data collection on diversity throughout 2023-24 in the following areas:
- Changes to the federal legislation on MAID will require the Department to expand MAID data collection to include information about race, Indigenous identity and disability, with a view to using this information to help determine the presence of individual or systemic inequality or disadvantage in the context of MAID. Health Canada will be working with P/Ts, health regulators and practitioners to support implementation of the expanded data collection starting January 1, 2023. MAID will also continue to fund projects aimed at gathering qualitative information and greater insight into the circumstances and experiences of people who seek MAID.
- Foundational work is being undertaken to generate and provide stewardship for pharmaceutical drug data and translate data into practical advice to inform decision-making and address systemic inequalities. The pharmaceutical drug data initiative will create a robust data foundation on the use of prescription drugs and establish baseline data, including for diverse populations, to compare against and measure progress in future years. This work has begun and will continue in 2023-24.
- Health Canada is also working with Statistics Canada on improving data collection on pharmaceuticals and medical devices in future surveys, with an emphasis on at-risk populations, as committed in Budget 2021.
- Health Canada is collaborating with Statistics Canada's Health Care Access, Experiences and Related Outcomes (HC-AERO) project to identify opportunities to include palliative care data. HC-AERO will improve understanding of health care access and experience from diverse perspectives, which can reveal needs, gaps, and inequities to accessing palliative care.
SGBA Plus data and analysis will also be used to inform the development of strategies, policies, and initiatives. Public awareness campaigns are one area where the Department will expand their focus to underrepresented populations and monitor their increased awareness, with the hope that it will lead to uptake of health care services among these populations.
- Before launching the national palliative care awareness campaign, public opinion research (POR) was undertaken with the following target communities on key messages and strategies: people with serious illness from the Black community, other racialized communities and physical disability communities. The awareness campaign will monitor its success among these target populations.
- CBS will continue to raise awareness about the need for all genders and those of diverse heritage to register their intent to donate and have discussions with their families about their decision. CBS will continue to ensure its public polling specifically reaches underserved populations and regions to provide a clearer picture of how identity factors influence the public's awareness, trust and participation in the donation and transplantation system. Furthermore, CBS is working on building trust and engagement strategies to improve understanding of Indigenous perspectives over the coming years.
Health Canada will continue working with Statistics Canada and CIHI to fill data gaps and develop a strong evidence base in key policy areas. These national data sets and guidance on gender, diversity, and inclusion data collection and analysis will be used to inform program decision-making and ensure SGBA Plus data is available to the public.
The Department will consider whether transfer payment programs can be used to fund policy and research projects to address other data gaps through recipient reporting and targeted calls for proposals.
Recipient organizations will continue to implement diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, positions, and committees to demonstrate their commitment to an equitable workplace and embed SGBA Plus into all their organization's work. This will support structural equity and diversity considerations in their programming.
Program 2: Healthy people and communities program
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The following initiatives and transfer payment programs contribute to this program:
- Official Languages Health Program (OLHP)
- Funding to Healthcare Excellence Canada (HEC)
- Funding to Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) and other targeted mental health projects
- Funding to the Canadian Thalidomide Survivors Support Program
- Funding to Address Anti-Indigenous Racism in Health Care
- Funding to targeted projects on health care improvements
The initiatives in the Healthy People and Communities Program target inadequate and unequal access to health care services and promote culturally appropriate care. Initiatives are funded to target underserved groups and diverse communities. Initiatives will collect disaggregated data to enable monitoring and reporting impact by sex, gender and other identity factors as relevant to ensure they are reaching their intended audience. Statistics Canada and CIHI also analyze and report on national-level disaggregated data, including self-reported data, on a regular basis. For example, data on perceived mental health status is reported by education level, gender and sexual orientation, geography, racialized communities, Indigeneity, and immigration status to measure the impacts of federal investments on the mental health of diverse populations.
Sex, gender and diversity considerations are an integral part of transfer payment programs work and a key criterion for funding decisions and performance measurement reporting requirements. For example, applicants are asked to describe their SGBA Plus approach or how the project would take intersectionality into account, including sex, gender, and other identity factors. This ensures the selection of applicants and initiatives is setup from the beginning to incorporate SGBA considerations and appropriate monitoring of diverse impacts.
In 2023-24, the initiatives in the Healthy People and Communities Program will be working collaboratively with funding recipients on improving the collection and use of SGBA Plus data. Health Canada develops tools, templates and guidance for recipients on performance measurement plans that collect SGBA Plus data wherever applicable. Some departmental initiatives also monitor the target population's access to and level of satisfaction with services. The following transfer payment programs highlight the department's work in this area:
- Funding to Address Anti-Indigenous Racism in Health Care will provide tools and templates to organizations receiving funding to help them apply an SGBA Plus lens when collecting and reporting their performance data. The indicators could measure: the identification of equity-seeking groups targeted in the projects; whether results are gender-specific; geographical locations of the activities and outputs; and languages of the products and outputs being developed.
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Program will also provide support to funding recipients as they develop performance measurement strategies to collect and report disaggregated data, and tailor the strategy to the communities served by this new initiative.
- Canadian Thalidomide Survivors Support Program will use an annual survey to monitor survivors' level of satisfaction with the services and information provided, which measures their expected outcomes. Survey information will be assessed to better understand survivor needs and to try to improve communication strategies, streamline processes, and where possible, make enhancements to the initiative based on sex, gender, language, and level of disability considerations.
- Health Canada will work with recipient organization Healthcare Excellence Canada (HEC) to implement their new performance measurement framework, with data collection on sex, gender and other identity factors. HEC will also continue to look for ways to go beyond data collection to analysis that may support higher quality, safer care, and better outcomes for diverse populations.
Internal surveys are also being developed and implemented in 2023-24 to administer to departmental staff to gather qualitative data on how effective sex, gender and diversity are in informing programming and reporting.
- The Health Care Policy and Strategies Program will disseminate a survey to specific staff at the end of each project, which contains a section to assess and report on their recipient's success on collecting SGBA Plus data and gather best practices and lessons learned. Information will be used to strengthen advice to recipients on SGBA Plus data collection.
- The Department will launch an internal survey to staff with specific questions on the effectiveness of SGBA Plus guidance and advice on shaping initiatives and performance measurement strategies. The data will be used to improve support provided to staff on SGBA Plus considerations during an initiative's design and implementation.
In 2023-24 departmental initiatives will review their performance measurement tools, including primary data collection tools and guidance for recipients to monitor and analyze progress in implementing initiatives within diverse populations and improve the Program's ability to report on expected results. For example:
- Health Canada's Wellness Together Portal prioritizes privacy to reduce barriers to access and collects minimal amounts of personal data but is considering other ways of collecting demographic data, e.g., surveys, usability tests, focus groups. The data collection will provide a sample representative of portal users, with a strong focus on priority populations (e.g., Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQIA+, persons with disabilities, racialized communities and people with various socio-demographic characteristics (including language, religion, geographic origin, nationality, cultural traditions, ancestry and migration history, among others).
- The OLHP will review its current performance measurement tools to streamline and improve data collection and capacity to measure, analyze and report on gender and diversity to better integrate SGBA Plus considerations, and reflect the diversity of Official Language Minority Communities.
Program 3: Quality health science, data and evidence program
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The following initiatives and transfer payment programs contribute to this program:
- Organs, Tissue and Blood Program for blood research
- Canada Brain Research Fund Program, funding to Brain Canada Foundation
- Funding to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI)
- Funding to targeted projects for research and evidence
- Departmental science policy work
The Quality Health Science, Data and Evidence Program funds research, data and evidence generating activities to support decision-makers across the healthcare system and address data gaps across many policy areas. For example, funding to the recipient organization CIHI will provide essential data and analysis, as a key evidence source for comparable, pan-Canadian data on Canada's health systems and the health of Canadians. A number of initiatives under this program collect disaggregated data to enable monitoring and reporting impact by sex, gender and other diversity factors. In scientific research, biological sex is specifically a variable that is collected and routinely available. Health Canada will encourage organizations receiving funding to collect data disaggregated by other identity factors as appropriate and support work on under-researched populations.
While these initiatives are often a source of evidence informing a range of departmental initiatives in the healthcare system, there are opportunities to improve the data collection of sex, gender and other identity factors to enhance overall program impact.
In the 2023-24 fiscal year, Health Canada will collaborate with organizations receiving funding under the Quality Health Science, Data and Evidence Program to develop tools, templates and guidance for recipients on the collection and use of SGBA Plus data. Recipient organizations measure progress and performance and will report on their research outcomes among diverse populations and other disaggregated data, as available. The Department and funding recipients will review and make improvements to performance measurement strategies to support the integration of sex, gender and diversity considerations and data collection and analysis.
- Canada Brain Research Fund Program is working with their recipient, the Brain Canada Foundation, to refine their performance measurement strategy. It will capture the gender and diversity of funded researchers in addition to monitoring research projects that seek to improve health outcomes for diverse groups using sex, gender, and other diversity considerations. Expanding the collection of disaggregated data will also be considered in designing and refining medium or longer-term outcomes.
- CIHI is renewing their organization's performance measurement strategy to improve their ability to measure, collect, analyze and report on disaggregated data for additional identity factors. This will enable the Department to monitor whether the Program is serving the data needs of diverse communities.
Through their funding agreement with the Department, CIHI will collect data from governments, hospitals, regional health authorities, medical practitioners and other stakeholders and disaggregate data when possible. CIHI has recently implemented new standards for the collection of sex and gender data across data providers. The standards that CIHI has developed, and their implementation support, will encourage P/Ts to submit data in a standardized format. CIHI will continue supporting the adoption of standards across healthcare systems to allow more comprehensive data collection for sex and gender across Canada.
Health Canada's data experts provide advice to departmental staff and assist in retrieving and using disaggregated data to inform the Department's initiatives. They will continue providing these supports over 2023-24.
Organizations receiving funding from the Department are continuing to implement diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, positions, and committees to demonstrate their commitment to an equitable workplace and embed SGBA Plus into all the organization's work. This will support upstream equity and diversity considerations in their programming.
Recipient organizations are improving their performance measurement strategies to include more diversity and equity considerations and data collection. Improved performance measurement will allow for more publicly available disaggregated across the healthcare systems.
Program 4: Pharmaceutical drugs
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus. In June 2021, Health Canada developed an SGBA Plus Action Plan for Health Products, which outlined measures that will be taken over a period of 5-10 years to improve the department's capacity to collect, analyze, and report on disaggregated data and its impacts. In October 2022, as part of Phase 1 of this initiative, the department began collecting baseline data from sponsors regarding the diversity of clinical data submitted to Health Canada.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to further develop and implement its SGBA Plus Action Plan as it relates to the Department's Pharmaceutical Drugs Program (Program 4), Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Program (Program 5), Medical Devices Program (Program 6) and Natural Health Products Program (Program 7) to ensure that people in Canada have access to information that supports informed decision-making regarding treatment options, based on the safety and efficacy profiles of people like them. Specifically, Health Canada will work with relevant national and international stakeholders to:
- Improve the SGBA Plus data submitted to Health Canada;
- Enhance the way SGBA Plus data is analyzed and reported on by Health Canada; and
- Increase the SGBA Plus information available to people in Canada to build trust and transparency.
Data-relevant elements of the branch-specific SGBA Plus Action Plan will include:
- The development of an SGBA Plus data strategy to ensure that required information is collected and reported on transparently through our transparency initiatives;
- Drug sponsors to submit clinical trial data on safety and efficacy that is disaggregated by subgroups;
- Creating guidance documents for industry around developing inclusive trials, to encourage greater diversity in trial participants, including from populations that tend to be underrepresented or excluded from trials currently: and,
- Health Canada is planning to redesign the forms for medical device incident reporting in 2023-24 to allow for collection of sex and race and ethnicity data in post-market surveillance.
Additional phases planned for Drugs in 2023-24 as follows:
- Phase 2: Regulation (2023-24) - Draft regulatory amendments to the Food and Drug Regulations that will require drug sponsors to submit their clinical data in a disaggregated manner have been proposed and were posted for public consultation in Canada Gazette I as part of the Agile Phase 1 regulatory package.
- Phase 3: Transparency (2023-24) - drug sponsors will be required to submit to Health Canada the percentage (%) breakdown of their clinical trial participants by trial phase and by group (sex, age, race/ethnicity). This will allow Health Canada to share this information with those in Canada to support informed decision-making regarding drug use.
Health Canada conducts post-market surveillance activities through the Canada Vigilance Program. The Department is examining options to update the reporting forms for industry, consumers and hospitals to provide options for improved SGBA plus data collection, specifically for race, ethnicity and gender.
Program 5: Biologic and radiopharmaceutical drugs
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The same activities are in place or planned as for pharmaceutical drugs. See Program 4 above.
Program 6: Medical devices
Currently, this program does not collect sufficient data to enable it to fully monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
At the pre-market stage, Health Canada will continue to employ a case-by-case approach to SGBA Plus when reviewing medical device license applications based on indicated populations and the specifics of the product. Further changes to the review process and templates may be explored in the future to systematically include SGBA Plus considerations.
On November 15, 2022, Health Canada published the Guidance Document on Clinical Evidence Requirements for Medical Devices to encourage manufacturers to conduct clinical studies and to use clinical data that reflects the diversity of Canadians and the populations whom a device is intended to serve. SGBA Plus considerations will continue to be included in guidance documents as appropriate, such as the upcoming guidance document on machine learning-enabled medical devices.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to further develop and implement its SGBA Plus Action Plan as it relates to the Medical Devices Program. This will help ensure that people in Canada have access to information that supports informed decision-making regarding their treatment options, based on the safety and efficacy profiles of people like them.
Please refer to Program 4: Pharmaceutical drugs for an overview of the Action Plan for Health Products.
Program 7: Natural health products
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will aim to further develop SGBA Plus data collection as it relates to the Natural Health Products Program. The Department developed and finalized an SGBA Plus toolbox in August 2021 to promote the significance of considering sex, gender, and other identity factors when collecting consumer data pertaining to natural health products. The SGBA Plus toolbox will continue to provide important resources on gender concepts and definitions, key words to use in a literature search, data analysis tools, the description of the methodology of gender analysis, and references to publications that have used SGBA Plus. The SGBA Plus toolbox will act as a resource to guide data collection on sex and gender that will enhance the Department's ability to further integrate SGBA Plus in its decision-making for the Natural Health Program.
Please refer to Program 4: Pharmaceutical drugs for an overview of the Action Plan for Health Products.
Program 8: Food and nutrition
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will aim to further develop SGBA Plus data collection as it relates to the Food and Nutrition Program. Health Canada will continue its efforts to monitor the state of food advertising to children and explore ways to include gender and diversity considerations, such as those relating to underserved populations, in its data collection and analysis to inform the future development of clinical trials regulations for foods for a special dietary use.
All research developed and implemented for consumer awareness, understanding, appraisal and use of labelling regulations, alternatives to regulations (i.e. policies, standards, guidelines), communications and education, aims to collect disaggregated SGBA Plus data on interested and affected parties, in particular those that are disadvantaged by risks of marginal/limited health literacy. Research shows that consumers face many health literacy challenges in accessing, understanding and evaluating food labelling information when making food choices. The systematic integration of gender and health literacy considerations into social science and consumer behaviour research can help address these challenges and better meet the needs of the increasingly diverse Canadian population.
For nutrition labelling to be effective, the requisite information must be noticed, processed, evaluated and used by those at the greatest risk of limited/marginal health literacy. In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to strengthen application of SGBA Plus, and more specifically health literacy considerations, into social science and consumer behaviour research on the monitoring and evaluation of the recent updates to the nutrition labelling regulations and labelling approach for supplemented foods. The integration of health literacy considerations will help address challenges of the increasingly diverse Canadian population in accessing, understanding and evaluating labelling information when making food choices.
In addition, the Department is conducting food toxicology research on flame retardant contaminants in food with a focus on refining the threshold levels that may pose risks to pregnant persons and infants.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to strengthen application of SGBA Plus considerations within its chemicals management activities by, for example, implementing tools and training materials to better consider SGBA Plus more systemically in its risk assessment and risk management activities.
Program 9: Air quality
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The Air Quality Program conducts scientific research and health risk assessments related to air pollution, including examining sex-specific health endpoints; health effects by sex; and differences based on age, underlying health conditions and socio-economic status. Other epidemiological studies assess whether there are differences in the relationship between air pollution and various adverse health outcomes by sex. The Program currently reports on mortality attributable to short-term exposure to outdoor air pollution, ground-level ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) by age, sex and region through the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators (CESI) Air Health Trends indicator.
Health Canada will continue to collect data on, study, and assess health effects attributable to air pollution, including sex- and- gender-specific health endpoints, most notably with a significant focus on studying the impacts on at-risk sub-populations including pregnant persons and birth outcomes.
Health Canada will also continue to study and assess who is reached by the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) (a scale designed to help people in Canada understand what the air quality around them means to their health) and how associated health messaging is used, particularly among sub-populations who may be more susceptible or highly exposed to air pollution. As part of the AQHI POR planned for 2025-26, Health Canada will prioritize collecting data on AQHI usage among different populations as part of ongoing efforts to improve awareness of the tool so that Canadians can better protect themselves from the health risks of air pollution.
Program 10: Climate change
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The Climate Change Program conducts POR on the health impacts of climate change every five years. Applicable results related to sex, gender and diversity are reported.
The Program conducts POR to collect data on the level of awareness and the use of evidence-based measures to reduce the health impacts of climate change every five years. The last survey was conducted in 2022 and the next POR is planned for 2027-28. Survey results are disaggregated by sub-populations to enable a more comprehensive understanding of climate change awareness among disproportionately impacted groups. Socio-demographic information including sex, gender, age, geographic location, racial/cultural group, language, and indigenous status factors are collected and reported if significant and data permitting. Health Canada will continue to collect and assess data on the health effects attributable to climate change impacts and collaborate with federal partners to identify ways to enhance these considerations, including SGBA Plus-specific health endpoints.
Program 11: Water quality
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
When developing drinking water quality guidelines, the Water Quality Program considers and often bases maximum acceptable concentrations of contaminants on health endpoints related to at-risk populations and sex, when available, most notably the impacts on pregnant persons and birth outcomes, along with other potentially at-risk populations based on other considerations (e.g., age, geography). Data collection is part of the ongoing development of the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines. Health Canada will continue to collect existing and emerging scientific evidence and analyze SGBA Plus data, such as those related to sex, gender, age, and/or geography. Using all information gathered, Health Canada will identify critical health endpoints affecting human health from water contaminants, including determining whether certain sub-populations may be particularly at-risk to exposure or effects of exposure, to inform a protective concentration level. The Program is also collaborating with other federal health risk assessment programs to identify ways to enhance SGBA Plus considerations in water risk assessments.
Program 12: Health impacts of chemicals
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The Program conducts health risk assessments, including examining sex-specific health endpoints; health effects by sex; and differences based on age. As part of the risk assessment process, certain sub-groups (e.g., infants, children and people of reproductive age) are routinely considered to determine whether there are age- or sex-specific differences in biological susceptibility. Sub-groups that may have higher exposures due to factors such as their behaviour (such as infants/toddlers exposed through mouthing objects) or where they live (e.g., people living near industrial sites exposed to releases occurring there) are also considered. This type of information on susceptibility and exposure is necessary to identify disproportionately impacted sub-groups, with biomonitoring data collected through, for example, the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) and the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) study. The CHMS, which has collected and continues to collect nationally representative biomonitoring data since 2007, reports the levels of environmental chemicals disaggregated by age and sex for the Canadian population. MIREC collects information on levels of chemicals and their health effects during pregnancy, in infancy and in childhood by sex.
When risk assessment of a substance identifies a particular risk to a sub-group (e.g., infants or pregnant persons), risk management actions are put in place to address them. The Program's performance measurement activities, intended to assess the extent to which risk management activities have reduced the potential for exposure to harmful substances, include a particular focus on disproportionately impacted sub-groups.
Health Canada will continue to collect data on, study and assess health effects attributable to chemical substances, including sex-and-gender-specific health endpoints with a significant focus on studying the impacts on pregnant persons and birth outcomes. Health Canada is implementing a work plan that will incorporate SGBA Plus principles to advance progress on addressing the needs of sub-populations who may be more susceptible or highly exposed in the context of chemicals management. Ongoing and planned activities include finalizing targeted guidance for risk assessors, exploring data needs, and additional opportunities for obtaining data in this area.
Future cycles of the CHMS will also collect information on the sex and gender identity of respondents and on a new at-risk sub-population (1-2 years of age). Health Canada's research, monitoring and surveillance activities (including biomonitoring) will continue to include collection of SGBA Plus data to inform risk assessment, risk management, policy, and ultimately performance measurement.
The Department conducts POR to collect data on the level of knowledge, awareness, and behaviours on environmental health issues. The last survey was conducted in 2022, with the plan to repeat every five years. Survey results are disaggregated by sub-population (e.g., by gender, age, geography) to enable analysis of SGBA Plus considerations for a more comprehensive understanding of environmental health awareness and behaviours and inform more targeted outreach efforts.
Program 13: Consumer product safety
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The Consumer Product Safety Program identifies risks pertaining to certain sub-groups (e.g., infants or children) when assessing health and safety risks of consumer products and, as applicable, takes risk management and compliance actions to address identified risks. The Program then uses case studies to measure the impact of program performance on Canadians and will continue to consider impacts on SGBA Plus sub-populations in upcoming case studies.
In 2021-22, Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety Directorate established an Anti-Racism Science Working Group to identify areas of potential racial bias within program activities. This awareness will support informed data collection strategies and support an anti-racism review of guidance, operating procedures, decision-making processes, and templates. For example, the Program will continue its work on a multi-year toxicology project related to identifying possible bias in a skin pigmentation scale used for assessment of irritation.
Program 14: Workplace hazardous products
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
Health Canada is collecting SGBA Plus data through consultations with partners, stakeholders, and the public in order to inform policy and decision-making as it relates to workplace hazardous products.
Health Canada is exploring the protection of at-risk workers. In this context, at-risk workers may include young, new, aging, migrant/immigrant workers and workers who have precarious employment. These workers are likely disproportionately employed in physically demanding or hazardous jobs, which puts them at higher risk for workplace injuries and illnesses. Work is continuing to qualify and quantify economic impacts for certain injuries and illnesses and to identify the potential relationship between these injuries and illnesses and the use of chemical products at work. These data will be disaggregated to the extent possible along SGBA Plus lines to enable a better understanding of workplace illness and injury among various demographic groups. This work will serve to inform compliance promotion and enforcement of accurate hazard communication to workers in at-risk sectors.
Program 15: Tobacco control
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to monitor trends in tobacco and vaping product use based on socio-demographic characteristics and consider targeted measures to address high prevalence rates amongst population groups, as appropriate. Priorities include addressing concerns regarding youth vaping and protecting youth and non-users of tobacco products from nicotine addiction. The Department's SGBA Plus data collection plans include collaborating with Statistics Canada to assess key aspects of tobacco and vaping products use through population health surveys, such as the Canadian Community Health Survey and the Canadian Tobacco and Nicotine Survey.
Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS)
- The CCHS is a large nationally representative annual survey conducted by Statistics Canada. The CCHS collects sociodemographic data including sex, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, geographic region (provincial data is collected annually while territorial data is collected biennially), income, job type, and education linked to health status and health behaviours. In 2020, the CCHS began collecting data nationally on vaping product use in Canada. This survey is the primary source of information on tobacco and vaping product use in Canada. It enables the Department to identify disparities in use among various Canadian subpopulations. The annual nature of the survey will support continued monitoring of groups that may be disproportionately affected by program initiatives.
Canadian Tobacco and Nicotine Survey (CTNS)
- CTNS is a general population survey conducted by Statistics Canada. It measures tobacco and vaping products use among Canadians aged 15 years and older. The CTNS also collects demographic information such as age and gender.
These surveillance tools allow Health Canada to analyze the distribution of smoking and vaping behaviours among the Canadian population, including the identification of subgroups with high prevalence rates. The Department also develops and implements supplementary surveillance projects, such as POR, to gather information about Canadians' knowledge and attitudes about tobacco and vaping products, considering the age, sex, gender, language, geography and other characteristics of participants. Health Canada will share the SGBA Plus findings with Canadians and stakeholders. This approach allows the Department to respond to emerging policy issues and to identify key populations and targeted interventions and initiatives for groups, such as young adults who smoke cigarettes as well as youth and young adults who use vaping products.
Data is leveraged from Performance and Progress Reports, which recipients funded through the SUAP submit on a biannual basis. Indicator data is disaggregated by demographics such as sex, gender, and language, and target populations such as Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+ and racialized people and communities.
- CCHS: Annual data collection using the CCHS will continue in 2023 and 2024. A notable addition to the 2023 cycle is the inclusion of questions that assess the methods used by people who smoke who reported making a quit attempt (e.g., using nicotine replacement therapy, using smoking cessation medications, using a vaping product, etc.). This information is expected to improve the Department's ability to track specific methods used in quit attempts as well as in successful quits.
- CTNS: Annual data collection using the CTNS will continue in 2023-24. The 2023-24 cycle will include the additional questions introduced in the 2022 cycle that assess SGBA Plus factors like education, cultural identity and Indigenous identity, sexual orientation, and disability.
Program 16: Controlled substances
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
Health Canada collects SGBA Plus data and information from a variety of sources including general and targeted population surveys, reports from supervised consumption sites, and recipients funded through the Department's Substance Use and Addictions Program. SGBA Plus data on sex, gender, age, and region is collected through the Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CADS) and the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS). The 2019 CADS general population survey had been conducted by Statistics Canada and challenges related to data quality and sample size arose when collecting information on gender and diversity. To mitigate this, Health Canada is strengthening methods to ensure meaningful SGBA Plus data is collected. In addition, questions and language regarding sex and gender will be revised to better support data and trend analysis going forward. The next cycle of CADS is scheduled for summer 2023 and results will be available by mid-2024.
Health Canada continues to collect, analyze and disseminate SGBA Plus data, and where possible, indicator data is disaggregated by various demographics such as geographic location, language, sex, and gender, with consideration of target populations such as Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+ and racialized peoples and communities. In 2023-24, the Department will continue to apply SGBA Plus while reviewing and developing policies and initiatives related to the overdose crisis and controlled substances, including treatment and harm reduction services and initiatives to reduce stigma associated with drug and substance use.
Applying an SGBA Plus lens to disaggregated data has made it possible to determine how opioid-related harms and deaths are experienced at a greater rate among specific sub-populations (e.g., young and middle-aged men were identified as a higher-risk group). Health Canada continued to address the stigma around help-seeking for addiction and substance use through a targeted advertising and marketing campaign to reach men in physically demanding occupations. Additionally, by using this SGBA Plus data, which highlighted the potential generational impacts of substance use, Health Canada will continue to implement prevention measures with the Know More Opioids Awareness Program sharing information about opioid use with thousands of young people across Canada.
Health Canada will continue to apply SGBA Plus in its work by also drawing on disaggregated data to define issues and inform policies and programs related to substance use more broadly. For example, Health Canada has used disaggregated data to identify trends in men and women who use substances such as alcohol and legal drugs.
Health Canada will improve data collection, particularly disaggregated data, on substance use and marginalized populations, social determinants of health, and impacts of substance use on health systems. This will help fill existing gaps in substance use data to better support federal policies and programming aimed at these groups. There will be a particular focus on priority populations (e.g., children and youth, men 20-60 working in trades, Indigenous Peoples, Black Canadians and other racialized groups, etc.) and applying an equity lens to data and policy.
Program 17: Cannabis
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
In 2023-24, Health Canada will continue to apply SGBA Plus to its data collection tools and analysis to help inform policy and regulatory decisions as well as the development of more targeted public education campaigns. SGBA Plus data collection plans include the assessment of key aspects of cannabis use through population health surveys, such as the Canadian Cannabis Survey, Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey, and the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs Survey.
Canadian Cannabis Survey (CCS)
- The CCS gathers detailed information about the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (e.g., including high-risk behaviours such as cannabis use and driving, frequent cannabis use, etc.), product preferences and purchasing habits and sources of cannabis amongst Canadians aged 16 and over who use cannabis, including cannabis for medical purposes. The CCS collects information on sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, household income and ethnicity.
Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CADS)
- The CADS is a biennial general population survey of cannabis, alcohol and drug use among Canadians aged 15 years and older. The CADS collects information on sex, gender, Indigenous status and age group.
Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS)
- The CSTADS is a biennial national survey conducted with students in grades 7-12 (Secondary I – Secondary V in Quebec). The survey captures information related to the use of tobacco and vaping products and smoking status, cannabis, as well as the use of alcohol and drugs among students and other areas identified by schools as priorities. The CSTADS collects information on sex, gender and grouped grade.
The Department will also collect data through the Performance and Progress Reports submitted on a biannual basis by recipients funded through the Health Canada Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP). Indicator data will be disaggregated by demographics such as sex, gender, language, and target population factors such as Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+ and racialized people/communities.
Information obtained from these surveillance and reporting tools will help further inform the legislative review of the Cannabis Act, regulatory initiatives, and public education and awareness activities.
Notable future data collection initiatives include:
- Results from the 2023 CCS to be published at the end of 2023. The next wave of data collection is aimed to begin in 2024-25.
- Results from the 2023 CADS to be published in 2024.
- Results from the 2021-22 CSTADS to be published in 2023. The next wave of data collection is aimed to begin in 2023-24.
Moreover, in 2023-24, the Department will continue to integrate SGBA Plus considerations into its activities by:
- Promoting a diverse commercial cannabis industry and deterring illicit activity by reducing barriers, improving guidance, and enhancing outreach for micro-cultivation and micro-processing license applicants who wish to grow or process cannabis on a smaller scale;
- Offering an Indigenous Navigator Service for Indigenous-affiliated parties who are interested in obtaining a federal license to cultivate or process cannabis, including industrial hemp, under the Cannabis Act;
- Having regular and frequent engagement with First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders, organizations and communities to support a distinctions-based engagement approach, to advance a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, and to respond to specific interests and priority areas raised by Indigenous leadership; and
- Delivering evidence-based public education and awareness messaging to priority populations, including youth and young adults, pregnant and breastfeeding people, 2SLGBTQIA+ populations, parents, older adults, health professionals, and school communities.
Program 18: Radiation protection
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
In 2021-22, the Radiation Protection Program conducted POR (PDF format) to determine Canadians' attitudes and knowledge about the risks from radiation emitting devices. Review of this disaggregated data was initiated in 2022-23 to support SGBA Plus considerations. This information will inform the development and implementation of effective knowledge mobilization plans and activities that can be adapted to specific target audiences. The Program will report applicable results related to sex, gender, and diversity (e.g., results by gender, age and social-economic status).
Health Canada conducts POR every 5 years to collect data on radon knowledge and attitudes. In 2022-23, the POR collected information on at-risk populations, including those living in high radon regions, parents, and smokers, and results will be reported by disaggregated sub-populations. Results of the POR will be available in 2023-24 and will inform the outreach and behavior change work under the National Radon Program.
Additionally, Health Canada is planning a survey in 2023-24 to determine Canadians' awareness and use of information regarding radiation emitting devices and will be collecting disaggregated data to help inform better-targeted outreach activities and determine additional opportunities to incorporate SGBA Plus considerations into future work. Health Canada will report on disaggregated results by certain sub-groups (e.g., by gender identity, region, age, household income, education and language).
Program 19: Pesticides
The Program collects sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
When a pesticide is being evaluated for its potential risks to human health, the Pest Control Products Act requires Health Canada to take into account risks that chemicals may pose to groups based on differences in biology and behaviour (e.g., differences related to sex, gender, age and occupation). If the health and environmental risks of a pesticide cannot be mitigated, the product will not be registered for use in Canada. The Considerations of Sex and Gender in Pesticide Risk Assessments Infographic highlights GBA Plus metrics considered by the Department. The Sex- and Gender-based Considerations in the Scientific Risk Assessment of Pesticides in Canada Factsheet provides additional details on how the Department considers SGBA Plus within its operations and forward plans.
In addition to the above, Health Canada conducts a POR Survey every 4 years to measure the impact of outreach and awareness activities on the public. Respondents can be grouped by SGBA Plus metrics such as geography, age, and gender, which provide insight into whether variances exist between these groups and can inform future program strategies.
Companies applying to register a pesticide must provide the Department with substantial toxicology data from health and environmental studies in accordance with internationally accepted scientific standards. Departmental scientists evaluate potential risks to human health and the environment based on the data provided, which includes consideration of SGBA Plus factors such as sex, gender, and age. The Department requests additional information from the applicant, if necessary.
Health Canada is conducting another POR Survey in 2023-24 and SGBA Plus metrics will be analyzed to determine whether differences exist between groups regarding the impact of outreach and awareness, to inform future program strategies.
The Department will continue to evaluate the feasibility, and requirements regarding the collection of additional SGBA Plus data, with emphasis on intersectionality.
Program 20: Health Canada specialized services
This program does not collect sufficient data to enable it to monitor and/or report program impacts by SGBA Plus.
The Health Canada Specialized Services Program consists of three sub-programs:
- Employee Assistance Services (EAS), which delivers the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through a network of contracted mental health professionals;
- Public Service Occupational Health Program (PSOHP), which provides occupational health services and occupational hygiene consultative services to Government of Canada departments and agencies; and
- The Internationally Protected Persons (IPP) Program, whose mandate is to coordinate the development of health contingency plans for visiting IPPs to Canada and reports on the IPP program.
EAP
Health Canada collects sufficient data for monitoring EAP impacts by gender and diversity. The Department will continue to collect disaggregated data to support SGBA Plus, which includes data on sex, gender, age, geography, language, sexual orientation, and employment equity groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and racialized minorities). Using past research to guide directions, in 2023-24, EAP will focus on broadening reach through:
- Continuing recruitment efforts to improve alignment of the counsellor network with public service demographics;
- Expanding the collection of demographic data to include specific sub-groups within the "racialized" category to enhance how disaggregated data is collected and evaluated;
- Continuing promotion of live Chat and other digital wellness resources through social media and other means (presentations, information sessions, EAP website);
- Continuing promotion of diversity-themed organizational services (training and other wellness supports) available for managers and their teams.
PSOHP
Health Canada is currently unable to collect disaggregated data on delivery of the PSOHP due to a delay in the implementation of its new National Occupational Health Information System (NOHIS), and limitations with its existing Activity Tracking System. However, NOHIS will capture data on client populations to support the use of SGBA Plus in monitoring and reporting on program impacts. It is anticipated this new system will be operational in 2023-24. The Department will ensure best practices in EAP's SGBA Plus data collection plans are applied to NOHIS, as well as enhance client department engagement on the collection of disaggregated data for positions that undergo occupational health evaluations.
IPP
The IPP Program's mandate is to coordinate the development of health contingency plans for visiting IPPs to Canada. Data collected by the IPP Program relates to information about a very small group of political leaders from sovereign nations outside of Canada and is not sufficient to enable monitoring or reporting of program impacts by gender and diversity. Data that could inform GBA Plus monitoring or reporting is only collected if medically relevant, and use of that information is restricted to medical treatment only. The IPP Program collaborates with program partners, primarily the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Global Affairs Canada, to determine the level of service provided to visiting IPPs. As such, Health Canada cannot predict the volume of data that will be collected. Collecting data that could inform SGBA Plus monitoring or reporting could reveal personal information and would be considered diplomatically sensitive.
The IPP Program continues to work with departmental partners to identify any future initiatives to support the development of data collection and analysis tools to measure and assess the impacts of the Program on gender and diversity in the future.
Horizontal initiatives
Chemicals Management Plan
General information
Name of horizontal initiative
Chemicals Management Plan
Lead department
Health Canada
Federal partner organization(s)
- Environment and Climate Change Canada
- Public Health Agency of Canada
Start Date
2007-08
End Date
2023-24
Description
The objective of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP or "the Program") is to protect human health and the environment by addressing substances of concern in Canada. It was launched in 2006 and is jointly managed by Health Canada (HC) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) also contributes to this Program.
The core functions of the Program are: 1) chemicals risk assessment; 2) chemicals risk management, compliance promotion and enforcement; 3) research, monitoring and surveillance; and 4) collaboration, outreach and engagement.
The CMP addresses both substances currently in commerce ("existing substances") and substances entering the Canadian market ("new substances"). It also takes into consideration various routes of exposure (e.g., from water, air, food, consumer products, cosmetics, pesticides, etc.), and both chronic and acute risks. When identifying and/or managing risks, actions are guided by the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA), the Food and Drugs Act (F&DA), the Pest Control Products Act (PCPA), and others, as appropriate.
For more information, see the Government of Canada's Chemical Substances Portal.
Governance structures
Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada share the overall responsibility for delivering the CMP. The Departments fulfill their responsibilities through established internal departmental governance structures, as well as a joint CMP governance structure to address shared responsibilities.
Within the joint structure, there is a CMP Horizontal Initiative Oversight Committee comprised of implicated Assistant Deputy Ministers (ADMs) from the three partner organizations. Meetings of the CMP Horizontal Initiative Oversight Committee are co-chaired by the ADM of the Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, the ADM of the Environmental Protection Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the ADM of the Science and Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada. This Committee provides strategic direction and management oversight for the integrated delivery and management of the CMP. This Committee will also resolve any disputes within the Horizontal Initiative. This Committee reports to the Deputy Ministers of Health Canada and of Environment and Climate Change Canada and is responsible for the overall management of the CMP. It meets approximately four times a year.
The CMP Horizontal Initiative Oversight Committee is supported by the CMP Steering Committee, which consists of all implicated Directors General (DGs) within Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada. The CMP Steering Committee also meets four times a year, although some DG sub-groups meet monthly. The CMP Steering Committee provides a regular open exchange of information and decisions on a broad range of operational and policy issues for the implementation of CMP.
The CMP Steering Committee is supported by a CMP Working Group, a director-level committee that meets every two weeks to provide oversight of the CMP's implementation and coordination, and seeks to resolve issues that may arise, while developing options and making recommendations to DGs as needed. Overall, this joint CMP governance structure supports integration, co-ordination, decision-making, and clear accountabilities within the Horizontal Initiative.
Total federal funding allocated from start to March 31, 2024 (dollars)
$1,785,865,593
Total federal funding planned spending to March 31, 2022 (dollars)
$1,467,408,131
Total federal actual spending to March 31, 2022 (dollars)
$1,394,710,580
Date of last renewal of initiative
June 2021
Total federal funding allocated at the last renewal and source of funding (dollars)
$477,686,192. Budget 2021.
Additional federal funding received after last renewal (dollars)
Not applicable.
Total planned spending since last renewal
$159,228,731
Total actual spending since last renewal
$128,005,820
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation
2023-24
Planning highlights
In 2023-24, the Program will:
- Conduct science-based assessments and risk management activities, as needed, on both new and existing substances. This includes identifying and addressing risks posed by harmful chemicals in foods and food packaging materials, consumer products, cosmetics, and drinking water.
- Conduct pesticide re-evaluations as legislated under the PCPA. In addition, review incident and sales reporting data from industry to identify pesticide trends and inform re-evaluations, special reviews, work planning, and prioritization.
- Conduct research to address priority knowledge gaps related to the risk of exposure and the effects of substances on human health and the environment, in order to inform risk assessments, risk management, and international activities.
- Conduct targeted monitoring and surveillance activities related to existing and emerging chemicals of concern to inform risk assessments and risk management activities.
- Undertake performance measurement evaluations to evaluate the effectiveness of risk management measures in reducing the use and release of harmful substances.
- Raise industry's awareness of regulatory and legislative requirements, and conduct risk-based compliance promotion and enforcement activities.
- Increase proactive communications to the public to raise awareness of the risks and safe use of substances, including greater use of partnerships to expand the reach of messaging, with a focus on disproportionately impacted populations.
- Participate in a range of international activities that support the sound management of chemicals.
- Identify and address human health risks associated with water, food and sanitation on passenger conveyances such as aircraft, trains, cruise ships, and ferries, focusing efforts on the areas of greatest risk to public health.
Contact information
Health Canada
Angelika Zidek
A/Director
Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch
angelika.zidek@hc-sc.gc.ca
613-618-0385
Environment and Climate Change Canada
Thomas Kruidenier
A/Executive Director, Program Development and Engagement
Science and Technology Branch
thomas.kruidenier@ec.gc.ca
613-697-4854
Maya Berci
Executive Director, Chemicals Management Division
Environmental Protection Branch
maya.berci@ec.gc.ca
613-852-7302
Horizontal initiative framework: departmental funding by theme (dollars)
Horizontal initiative: Chemicals Management Plan
Shared outcomes: Risks from harmful chemicals to the environment and to the health of Canadians are reduced
Name of theme | Theme 1 Chemical risk assessments |
Theme 2 Chemical risk management, compliance promotion and enforcement |
Theme 3 Science-based decision-making |
Theme 4 Collaboration, outreach and engagement |
Internal services |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme outcome(s) | Harmful chemicals are identified through risk assessments of established priority chemicals | Potential human or environmental exposure to harmful chemicals is reduced | CMP research and monitoring and surveillance projects provide data to inform CMP decisions | Canadians use information to minimize the health and environmental risks of harmful chemicals | Not applicable |
Health Canada | $68,194,221 (Top-up) $21,477,054 (Existing) |
$31,979,616 (Top-up) $17,726,922 (Existing) |
$62,934,767 (Top-up) $26,848,854 (Existing) |
$22,865,441 (Top-up) $4,327,170 (Existing) |
$11,447,915 (Top-up) |
Environment and Climate Change Canada | $8,918,649 (Top-up) $28,983,039 (Existing) |
$49,782,999 (Top-up) $56,244,369 (Existing) |
$22,995,255 (Top-up) $17,220,642 (Existing) |
$0 | $6,803,097 (Top-up) $8,555,904 (Existing) |
Public Health Agency of Canada | $0 | $9,548,552 (Top-up) $330,369 (Existing) |
$0 | $501,357 (Top-up) |
$0 |
Planning Information
Horizontal initiative overview
Name of horizontal initiative | Total federal funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) | 2023–24 Planned spending (dollars) |
Horizontal initiative shared outcome(s) | Performance indicator(s) | Target(s) | Date to achieve target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chemicals Management Plan | 477,686,192 | 159,228,731 | Risks from harmful chemicals to the environment and to the health of Canadians are reduced | Health: Levels of exposure to a selectedTable footnote 1 group of harmful chemicals where risk management actions have been put in place | Stable or downward trend (confirmed through periodic, comparative analysis of selected substances undertaken since 2010) | March 2026 |
Environment: Levels of exposure within the environment of a selected group of harmful chemicals where risk management actions have been put in place | Stable or downward trend (confirmed through periodic, comparative analysis of selected substances undertaken since 2010) | March 2026 | ||||
Theme horizontal initiative activities
Theme 1 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chemical Risk Assessments | 127,572,963 | 42,528,418 | Harmful chemicals are identified in a timely manner | % of the 4,363 existing chemicals that were prioritized under the Chemicals Management Plan that have been addressed | 100% | March 2024 |
Theme 1 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HC |
|
Risk Assessment | 89,671,275 | 29,894,522 | ER 1.1 | PI 1.1.1 | T 1.1.1 | March 2024 |
PI 1.1.2 | T 1.1.2 | March 2024 | ||||||
ER 1.2 | PI 1.2.1 | T 1.2.1 | March 2024 | |||||
PI 1.2.2 | T 1.2.2 | March 2024 | ||||||
ECC | Substances and Waste Management | Risk Assessment | 37,901,688 | 12,633,896 | ER 1.3 | PI 1.3.1 | T 1.3.1 | March 2024 |
PI 1.3.2 | T 1.3.2 | March 2024 |
Theme 2 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chemical Risk Management, Compliance Promotion and Enforcement | 165,612,827 | 55,204,276 | Potential human or environmental exposure to harmful chemicals is reduced | Exposure or prevalence of a selected group of chemicals where risk management actions have been put in place | Varies by chemical (stable or downward trend) | March 2024 |
% of actions taken in a timely manner to protect the health of Canadians from substances found to be a risk to human health | 100% | March 2024 | ||||
% of actions taken in a timely manner to protect Canada's environment from substances found to be a risk to the environment | 100% | March 2024 |
Theme 2 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HC |
|
Risk Management, Compliance Promotion and Enforcement | 49,706,538 | 16,568,846 | ER 2.1 | PI 2.1 | T 2.1 | March 2024 |
ECCC |
|
Risk Management, Compliance Promotion and Enforcement | 106,027,368 | 35,342,456 | ER 2.2 | PI 2.2 | T 2.2 | March 2024 |
ER 2.3 | PI 2.3.1 | T 2.3.1 | March 2024 | |||||
PI 2.3.2 | T 2.3.2 | March 2024 | ||||||
PHAC | Border and Travel Health | Risk Management, Compliance Promotion and Enforcement | 9,878,921 | 3,292,974 | ER 2.4 | PI 2.4 | T 2.4 | March 2024 |
Theme 3 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Science-Based Decision-Making | 129,999,518 | 43,338,670 | CMP research and monitoring and surveillance projects provide data to inform CMP decisions | % of research projects that inform program science-based decision-making (including priorities for risk assessment; risk management; research, monitoring and surveillance; and/or international activities related to the impacts of chemicals) | 100% | March 2024 |
% of monitoring and surveillance activities that inform program science-based decision-making (including priorities for risk assessment; risk management; research, monitoring and surveillance; and/or international activities related to the impacts of chemicals) | 100% | March 2024 |
Theme 3 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HC |
|
Research | 48,750,852 | 16,250,284 | ER 3.1 | PI 3.1 | T 3.1 | March 2024 |
|
Monitoring and Surveillance | 41,032,769 | 13,683,087 | ER 3.2 | PI 3.2 | T 3.2 | March 2024 | |
ECCC | Substances and Waste Management | Research | 22,607,403 | 7,535,801 | ER 3.3 | PI 3.3 | T 3.3 | March 2024 |
Monitoring and Surveillance | 17,608,494 | 5,869,498 | ER 3.4 | PI 3.4 | T 3.4 | March 2024 |
Theme 4 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Collaboration, Outreach and Engagement | 27,693,968 | 9,225,799 | Canadians use information to minimize the health and environmental risks of harmful chemicals | % of Canadians who took recommended actions to minimize the health and environmental risks of harmful chemicals (overall; as well as disaggregated for Indigenous people and vulnerable populations, such as women and visible minorities, when relevant/possible) | 55% | March 2027 |
Theme 4 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 Planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 Horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HC | Health Impacts of Chemicals | Outreach and Engagement | 5,043,213 | 1,682,883 | ER 4.1 | PI 4.1.1 | T 4.1.1 | March 2024 |
PI 4.1.2 | T 4.1.2 | March 2024 | ||||||
PI 4.1.3 | T 4.1.3 | March 2024 | ||||||
PI 4.1.4 | T 4.1.4 | March 2024 | ||||||
ER 4.2 | PI 4.2 | T 4.2 | March 2024 | |||||
Program Management | 22,149,398 | 7,375,797 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||
PHAC | Health Impacts of Chemicals | Program Management | 501,357 | 167,119 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Total spending, all themes
Theme | Total federal funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 total federal planned spending (dollars) |
---|---|---|
Theme 1 | 127,572,963 | 42,528,418 |
Theme 2 | 165,612,827 | 55,204,276 |
Theme 3 | 129,999,518 | 43,338,670 |
Theme 4 | 27,693,968 | 9,225,799 |
Total, all themes | 450,879,276 | 150,297,163 |
Horizontal Initiative Activity Codes
Theme 1: Chemical Risk Assessments
Expected Results
Health Canada
ER 1.1: Harmful chemicals are identified in a timely manner
ER 1.2: Regulated pesticides are deemed to meet current scientific standards with respect to health and the environment
Environment and Climate Change Canada
ER 1.3: Harmful chemicals are identified through timely risk assessments
Performance Indicators
Health Canada
PI 1.1.1: % of existing chemicals addressed within targeted timelines
PI 1.1.2: % of new substances (chemicals, polymers, and animate products of biotechnology) assessed within prescribed timelines
PI 1.2.1: % of pesticide re-evaluations that are completed within specified timelines
PI 1.2.2: % of pesticide special reviews that are completed within specified timelines
Environment and Climate Change Canada
PI 1.3.1: % of new substances (chemicals, polymers, and animate products of biotechnology) assessed within prescribed timelines
PI 1.3.2: % of existing chemicals addressed within targeted timelines
Targets
Health Canada
T 1.1.1: 100%
T 1.1.2: 100%
T 1.2.1: 90%
T 1.2.2: 90%
Environment and Climate Change Canada
T 1.3.1: 100%
T 1.3.2: 100%
Theme 2: Chemical Risk Management, Compliance Promotion and Enforcement
Expected Results
Health Canada
ER 2.1: Regulatees are informed of and comply with legislative and regulatory requirements related to the applicable HC Acts
Environment and Climate Change Canada
ER 2.2: Regulatees are informed of requirements of regulatory and non-regulatory instruments
ER 2.3: Non-compliant regulatees become compliant with established risk management obligations
Public Health Agency of Canada
ER 2.4: Public health risks associated with travel are reduced
Performance Indicators
Health Canada
PI 2.1: % of planned CMP compliance verifications completed
Environment and Climate Change Canada
PI 2.2: % of regulatees subject to regulatory and non-regulatory CMP instruments that are contacted through compliance promotion activities
PI 2.3.1: % of non-compliance addressed by enforcement action
PI 2.3.2: % of verified compliance for ongoing environmental violations during follow-up inspections
Public Health Agency of Canada
PI 2.4: % of inspected passenger transportation operators that meet public health requirements
Targets
Health Canada
T 2.1: 100%
Environment and Climate Change Canada
T 2.2: 100%
T 2.3.1: 70%
T 2.3.2: 60%
Public Health Agency of Canada
T 2.4: 95%
Theme 3: Science-Based Decision-Making
Expected Results
Health Canada
ER 3.1: Research data is available to inform CMP decisions
ER 3.2: Monitoring and surveillance data is available to inform CMP decisions
Environment and Climate Change Canada
ER 3.3: Research data is available to inform CMP decisions
ER 3.4: Monitoring and surveillance data is available to inform CMP decisions
Performance Indicators
Health Canada
PI 3.1: % of planned knowledge transfer activities completed related to research on chemicals of concern
PI 3.2: % of planned knowledge transfer activities completed related to monitoring and surveillance on chemicals of concern
Environment and Climate Change Canada
PI 3.3: % of research projects that supports priorities for risk assessment and risk management
PI 3.4: % of monitoring and surveillance projects that supports risk assessment and risk management decisions
Targets
Health Canada
T 3.1: 100%
T 3.2: 100%
Environment and Climate Change Canada
T 3.3: 100%
T 3.4: 100%
Theme 4: Collaboration, Outreach and Engagement
Expected Results
Health Canada
ER 4.1: Canadians and intermediaries have access to information to minimize environmental health risks
ER 4.2: The Government better understands the interests and concerns of vulnerable populations and Indigenous people regarding the management of chemicals and environmental health risks
Performance Indicators
Health Canada
PI 4.1.1: % of Canadians who engaged in social media in order to actively learn more about minimizing the health risks of harmful chemicals
PI 4.1.2: % of outreach participants who report an increase in knowledge about environmental health risks
PI 4.1.3: % of outreach participants who intend to take recommended actions to minimize the environmental health risks of harmful chemicals
PI 4.1.4: % of contribution funds committed to selected recipients to communicate evidence-based information about chemicals and health to Canadians
PI 4.2: % of planned engagement opportunities completed with the participation of vulnerable populations, including Indigenous peoples
Targets
Health Canada
T 4.1.1: 1%
T 4.1.2: 80%
T 4.1.3: 70%
T 4.1.4: 100%
T 4.2: 100%
Renewal of the funding for the existing Federal Framework for the Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis in Canada
General information
Name of horizontal initiative
Renewal of the funding for the existing Federal Framework for the Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis in Canada
Lead department
Health Canada
Federal partner organization(s)
- Canada Border Services Agency
- Public Health Agency of Canada
- Public Safety Canada
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Note: Other government departments (e.g., the Department of Justice) are supporting the federal cannabis framework. However, they are not captured in this Horizontal Initiative table, as they have not received targeted funding to support this initiative.
Start Date
April 1, 2017
End Date
March 31, 2025
Description
This horizontal initiative is designed to implement and administer the federal framework to legalize and strictly regulate cannabis. The Cannabis Act received Royal Assent on June 21, 2018, and came into force on October 17, 2018. This initiative aims to achieve the Government of Canada's objectives of reducing the public health harms associated with cannabis use, particularly among youth and displacing the illegal cannabis market with a strictly regulated legal industry.
Federal partner organizations implement the regulatory framework including licensing; regulatory compliance and enforcement; engagement with partners on public health and public safety; law enforcement; preventing and interdicting the cross-border movement of cannabis; research and surveillance; and public education activities.
Activities are organized by five high-level themes:
- Implement and enforce the legislative framework;
- Provide Canadians with information needed to make informed decisions and minimize health and safety harms;
- Enhance data, knowledge and tools on illegal cannabis and public safety by working with key partners and stakeholders;
- Provide intelligence, undertake enforcement activities, and support security screenings; and
- Prevent and interdict prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis while maintaining the flow of legitimate travellers and goods.
Governance structure
The Government of Canada continues to support a robust governance structure to facilitate a whole-of-government coordination in implementing and administering the federal framework to legalize and strictly regulate cannabis. An Assistant Deputy Minister in each partner department is responsible for delivering on planned activities and is accountable for reporting on cannabis results to Health Canada as the lead department for this horizontal initiative. As part of the governance structure, horizontal committees have been established to ensure collaboration and information exchange.
At the federal level, this governance structure includes an Assistant Deputy Minister Cannabis Committee (ADM CC) that serves as a forum for government-wide coordination of policy and activities. It is the main federal government forum to report on progress in the delivery of the program, surface emerging issues or risks and coordinate activities and relay information to responsible Deputy Heads, as appropriate. The ADM CC meetings are held every two months and are chaired by the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch (CSCB), Health Canada. Member departments include Health Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, Public Safety Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Privy Council Office, Treasury Board Secretariat, Finance Canada, Justice Canada, Global Affairs Canada, Canada Revenue Agency, Indigenous Services Canada, Statistics Canada, Transport Canada, and the Department of National Defence.
The ADM CC is supported by a Directors General-level Committee that meets bi-weekly, as needed, to exchange information necessary to enable timely monitoring and reporting on implementation and risks.
The Government is committed to ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. The Federal/Provincial/Territorial (F/P/T) Senior Officials Working Group on Cannabis Legalization and Regulation enables governments to exchange information on important issues about the legalization and regulation of cannabis. Meetings occur every two months and are chaired by Health Canada. Main membership includes representatives from both the policy and health fields at the provincial/territorial-level. Federal departments represented are Health Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, Public Safety Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Finance Canada and Justice Canada.
Health Canada assumes the chair and secretariat functions for these committees and working groups and has the central coordinating role in tracking key milestones and in reporting to federal Ministers.
Total federal funding allocated from start to end date (dollars)
$1,047,187,948
Total federal funding planned spending to date (dollars)
$546,807,456
Total federal actual spending to date (dollars)
$508,554,096
Date of last renewal of initiative
2022-23
Total federal funding allocated at the last renewal and source of funding (dollars)
$500,380,492
Additional federal funding received after last renewal (dollars)
Not applicable
Total planned spending since last renewal
$0
Total actual spending since last renewal
$0
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation
2027-28
Planning highlights
The federal government will continue to implement the cannabis legislative and regulatory framework in collaboration with provinces, territories, (P/Ts), Indigenous governments and communities, municipalities, the regulated industry, public health organizations, non-governmental organizations, academics, federal partners, international partners, and law enforcement.
For 2023-24, the federal government will continue to oversee the regulation of licence holders who cultivate and process cannabis as well as standards for products, packaging and labeling, and prohibitions on promotion, which is designed to protect the health and safety of Canadians. Provinces and territories are responsible for determining how cannabis is distributed and sold in their jurisdictions.
More specifically, participating federal departments and agencies have identified the following key priorities for 2023-24:
Health Canada (HC)
In 2023-24, Health Canada will:
- Continue to adapt its public education and awareness activities based on emerging evidence to help keep cannabis out of the hands of youth and help ensure adult consumers are able to make informed decisions to protect their health and safety;
- Continue to monitor, collect and analyze scientific evidence and data on cannabis and its impacts on public health; conduct research and surveillance on cannabis; monitor, assess and publicly report on adverse reactions, and assess and communicate potential health risks of cannabis use to Canadians;
- Continue to promote, monitor, verify and enforce compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements by conducting inspection activities (including inspection planning and operations, inspection policy, and regulatory program reporting and operational supports), reviewing and acting upon incidents of potential non-compliance, and refining risk-based strategies to address observed patterns of non-compliance;
- Develop regulatory amendments to simplify and streamline administrative requirements, and will continue to provide guidance and interpretation of cannabis-related legislative and regulatory requirements;
- Continue to administer the cost recovery framework as per the Cannabis Fees Order, and continue to manage the national Cannabis Tracking System, which provides information on cannabis production, inventories, distribution, and sales;
- Administer the new framework for human research on the effects and risks of cannabis for non-medical purposes which will in turn generate knowledge to inform public health and safety measures, public education, and policies;
- Continue to provide reasonable access to cannabis for medical purposes by registering individuals who have the support of their health care practitioner to produce a limited amount of cannabis for medical purposes or to designate someone to produce it for them;
- Strengthen the integrity of the medical access framework by addressing the potential public health and public safety risks posed by individuals who may misuse the personal production of cannabis for medical purposes. For example, Health Canada will request additional evidence from health care practitioners to substantiate or support high daily authorization amounts;
- Continue to issue licences and permits under the Cannabis Act, including for cannabis, hemp, research, analytical testing and for drugs containing cannabis;
- Continue to promote a diverse commercial cannabis industry and deter illicit activity by reducing barriers, improving guidance, and enhancing outreach for micro-cultivation and micro-processing licence applicants who wish to grow or process cannabis on a smaller scale;
- Continue to offer an Indigenous Navigator Service for Indigenous-affiliated parties who are interested in obtaining a federal licence to cultivate or process cannabis, including industrial hemp, under the Act;
- Continue to have regular and frequent engagement with First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders, organizations and communities to support a distinctions-based engagement approach, to advance a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, and to respond to specific interests and priority areas raised by Indigenous leadership;
- Continue to provide analytical lab services to support compliance and enforcement activities and decision making.
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
In 2023-24, CBSA will continue to advance initiatives that support the identification and interception of high-risk people, goods and conveyances that pose a threat to the security of Canadians with respect to the illegitimate cross-border movement of cannabis. Planning highlights include:
- A commitment to address or implement the recommendation made following the conclusion of the Health Canada-led Horizontal Evaluation of the Legalization and Strict Regulation of Cannabis (2017-18 to 2021-22);
- Continue to promote compliance, inform travellers of requirements under the Cannabis Act, and to detect and interdict illicit cannabis entering Canada through cannabis questioning, inspection, examination and administration of appropriate enforcement actions, while maintaining the flow of legitimate travellers and goods;
- Ensure existing CBSA policies related to the identification and interception of illegitimate cross-border movements of cannabis are sufficient and current;
- Continue to provide travellers with access to recourse mechanisms and appeal decisions in a timely manner;
- Conduct laboratory-based analysis and testing of seized products suspected of containing cannabis. This will result in the issuance of scientific certificates of analysis for evidentiary purposes, as well as building on the capacity to provide advice that supports operational decision-making;
- Work with law enforcement partners to maintain border integrity and discourage the illicit cross-border movement of cannabis; and
- Continue to monitor and report on the prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis.
Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC)
In 2023-24, PHAC will:
- Continue to support Canada's Chief Public Health Officer in raising the profile of the public health impacts of substance use and bringing together stakeholders to support the prevention of substance-related harms;
- Continue to support Canadians, particularly priority populations, in making informed decisions about cannabis and other substance use by co-developing and disseminating evidence-based public education resources;
- Continue to support schools and communities in implementing best practices for preventing substance-related harms among youth, including models such as the Blueprint for Action: Preventing substance-related harms among youth through a Comprehensive School Health approach.
Public Safety Canada (PS)
In 2023-24, PS will:
- Continue to work with key F/P/T stakeholders as well as third parties to advance efforts aimed at displacing the illicit cannabis market in Canada;
- Enhance data collection and monitoring on illicit cannabis to better measure the scope of the illicit cannabis market and facilitate enforcement actions;
- Continue to work with subject matter experts to build on research and knowledge related to the impacts of cannabis legalization on public safety;
- Continue its public education and awareness activities to discourage illegal cannabis use by informing Canadians about the health, safety and financial risks and potential legal consequences. These efforts will complement adjacent Health Canada activities;
- Undertake a public opinion research to examine the motivations of illegal cannabis sourcing to inform future policy directions, awareness efforts and communications activities both at the federal level and in support of the provinces and territories.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
In 2023-24, the RCMP will:
- Work to support outreach and engagement for the provision of culturally-responsive and community-appropriate assistance related to cannabis legislation and enforcement, as well as the provision of direction, recommendations, and guidance to RCMP divisions relating to Indigenous cultural protocols and enforcement matters related to Indigenous communities;
- Continue to develop public awareness products tailored for youth and Indigenous communities, and to support education and awareness activities specific to these communities;
- Continue to educate school resource officers on how to engage effectively with youth and Indigenous communities about cannabis and substance use;
- Continue to collaborate with partners and stakeholders to develop criminal intelligence products that assist with detecting and disrupting criminal involvement in the Canadian cannabis market, and share intelligence with law enforcement agencies, domestic government partners, and international law enforcement partners;
- Work with RCMP divisions and law enforcement/regulatory partners to coordinate criminal intelligence and effectively plan enforcement action against organized criminal activity in the Canadian cannabis market;
- Work with divisional and regulatory partners and federal and provincial law enforcement agencies to identify intelligence gaps and requirements for effective intelligence collection and analysis.
- Continue to analyze and collate information about the implementation of the cannabis regime, and monitor and interpret statistics associated with cannabis-related offences. Implementation of quality assurance processes to improve the accuracy and reliability of cannabis-related data.
Contact information
Health Canada
John Clare
Director General
Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch
John.Clare@hc-sc.gc.ca
613-858-8429
Horizontal Initiative: Renewal of the funding for the existing Federal Framework for the Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis in Canada
Shared Outcomes (SO):
- SO 1: Cannabis is kept of out of the hands of Canadian children and youth; and
- SO 2: The illegal cannabis market is reduced.
Name of theme | Theme Area 1: Implement and enforce the legislative framework |
Theme Area 2: Provide Canadians with information needed to make informed decisions and minimize health and safety harms |
Theme Area 3: Enhance data, knowledge and tools on illegal cannabis and public safety by working with key partners and stakeholders |
Theme Area 4: Provide intelligence, undertake enforcement activities, and support security screenings |
Theme Area 5: Prevent and interdict prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis while maintaining the flow of legitimate travellers and goods |
Internal Services |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme outcome(s) |
|
|
|
|
|
Not applicable |
Health Canada | $382,424,274 | $18,492,009 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | $35,688,549 |
Canada Border Services Agency | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | $28,951,613 | $448,387 |
Public Health Agency of Canada | Not applicable | $2,359,308 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | $322,174 |
Public Safety Canada | Not applicable | $100,000 | $2,690,792 | Not applicable | Not applicable | $509,208 |
Royal Canadian Mounted Police | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | $24,519,000 | Not applicable | $3,875,178 |
Planning information
Horizontal initiative overview
Name of horizontal initiative | Total federal funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) | 2023–24 planned spending (dollars) |
Horizontal initiative shared outcome(s) | Performance indicator(s) | Target(s) | Date to achieve target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Renewal of the funding for the existing Federal Framework for the Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis in Canada | $500,380,492 |
|
SO 1. Cannabis is kept out of the hands of Canadian children and youth [HC, PHAC, PS, RCMP and CBSA] | Percentage of youth (grade 10-12) who report frequent (daily to weekly) cannabis use in the past 30 days [HC] | At most 9.2% | March 31, 2025 | Survey of Canadian students in grades 7 -12. Data collected through the Canadian Student Tobacco Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS) | Biannually |
SO 2. The illegal cannabis market is reduced [HC, PHAC, PS, RCMP and CBSA] | Percentage of the estimated total market demand captured by the legal cannabis market [HC] | 74.4% | March 31, 2025 | Statistics Canada's Household Expenditure Table | Quarterly | |||
Percentage change of assessed organized crime groups operating in the illicit cannabis trade [RCMP] | Target/baseline expected to be established by Q2 of 2023-24Table R2 Footnote 1 | March 31, 2024 | Criminal Intelligence Service Canada (CISC) intelligence reports on organized crime group trends | Annually, but updated periodically throughout the year | ||||
Percentage decrease of cannabis import interdictions at the ports of entry [CBSA] | 18,799 5% reduction (+/- 5%) to baseline of 19,788Table R2 Footnote 2 |
March 31, 2024 | Integrated Customs Enforcement System (ICES) | Annually | ||||
|
Theme 1 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme Area 1: Implement and enforce the legislative framework | HC: $382,424,274 |
HC: $129,429,989 |
The cannabis industry is federally regulated and licensed [HC] | Percentage of licence applications processed within service standards [HC] | TBD Q1 of 2023-24 | March 31, 2024 | Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System | Annually |
Percentage of cannabis and hemp import and export permit applications processed within service standards [HC] | 85% | March 31, 2024 | Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System | Annually | ||||
The cannabis industry is informed of the regulatory requirements for cannabis [HC] | Percentage of targeted federal licence holders who indicate they have access to information to help them understand the regulatory requirements [HC] | 80% | March 31, 2024 | Survey to Federal Licence Holders | Biannually | |||
The cannabis industry is compliant with cannabis-related laws and regulations [HC] | Percentage of federally licensed industry that is found to be compliant with regulatory requirements [HC] | 80% | March 31, 2024 | Inspection reports | Annually | |||
Canadians authorized to use cannabis for medical purposes have reasonable access to legal cannabis [HC] | Percentage of applications for personal/designated production processed within the service standard [HC] | 85% | March 31, 2024 | JIRA | Annually | |||
Health Canada has the capacity to identify potential health and safety risks with cannabis products [HC] | Percentage of cannabis-related serious adverse reaction reports reported to Health Canada's Canada Vigilance Program that are investigated [HC] | 100% | March 31, 2024 | Canada Vigilance Database | Annually |
Theme 1 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Health Canada | Cannabis Program | Licensing and Other Federal Authorizations | $140,155,180 | $47,357,730 | ER 1.1.1 | PI 1.1.1.1 | T 1.1.1.1 | March 31, 2024 | Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System | Annually |
PI 1.1.1.2 | T 1.1.1.2 | March 31, 2024 | Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System | Annually | ||||||
ER 1.1.2 | PI 1.1.2 | T 1.1.2 | March 31, 2024 | JIRA | Annually | |||||
Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement and Inspections | $175,427,617 | $58,572,341 | ER 1.1.3 | PI 1.1.3 | T 1.1.3 | March 31, 2024 | Survey to Federal Licence Holders | Biannually | ||
ER 1.1.4 | PI 1.1.4 | T 1.1.4 | March 31, 2024 | Inspection reports | Annually | |||||
Regulatory Policy, Engagement, Surveillance and Science | $66,841,477 | $23,499,918 | ER 1.1.5 | PI 1.1.5 | T 1.1.5 | March 31, 2024 | Canada Vigilance Database | Annually |
Theme 2 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme Area 2: Provide Canadians with information needed to make informed decisions and minimize health and safety harms |
|
|
Canadian youth understand the potential health and safety risks associated with cannabis use [HC] | Percentage of youth (grades 7-12) who perceive that there is "no risk" in smoking cannabis on a regular basis [HC] | 7% | March 31,2025 | Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS) | Biannually |
Canadians have access to enough trustworthy information on cannabis use (including health effects) [HC] | Percentage of Canadians who strongly agree or somewhat agree that they have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of cannabis to make informed decisions [HC] | 75% | March 31, 2025 | Canadian Cannabis Survey | Biannually | |||
Canadians have access to public health knowledge products on cannabis and polysubstance use [PHAC] | Number of Canadians accessing public health knowledge products developed on cannabis and polysubstance use [PHAC] | 100,000 or more | March 31, 2025 | Product distribution, web analytics, number of participants in events/webinars | Annually | |||
Stakeholders work with the Public Health Agency of Canada to co-develop knowledge products related to the public health impacts of cannabis and polysubstance use [PHAC] | Number of knowledge mobilization projects co-developed with stakeholders on cannabis and polysubstance use [PHAC] | 10 | March 31, 2025 | Internal documents such as contract reports and administrative documents held by PHAC | Annually | |||
Canadians have access to information on illicit cannabis [PS] | Percentage increase in web traffic on illicit cannabis pages on relevant GoC and P/T websites [PS] | Baseline will be established in Q1 2023-24 | March 31, 2025 | GoC and PT data on web traffic | Annually |
Theme 2 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Health Canada | Cannabis Program | Public Education and Awareness | $18,492,009 | $6,164,003 | ER 2.1.1 | PI 2.1.1 | T 2.1.1 | March 31, 2025 | Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS) | Biannually |
ER 2.1.2 | PI 2.1.2 | T2.1.2 | March 31, 2025 | Canadian Cannabis Survey | Biannually | |||||
Public Health Agency of Canada | Health Promotion | Develop public health advice to support the role of Canada's Chief Public Health Officer through targeted knowledge mobilization, engagement, and collaboration | $2,359,308 | $828,068 | ER 2.2.1 | PI 2.2.1 | T 2.2.1 | March 31, 2025 | Product distribution, web analytics, number of participants in events/webinars | Annually |
ER 2.2.2 | PI 2.2.2 | T 2.2.2 | March 31, 2025 | Internal documents such as contract reports and administrative documents held by PHAC | Annually | |||||
Public Safety | Crime Prevention | Public education and awareness | $100,000 | $100,000 | ER 2.3.1 | PI 2.3.1 | T 2.3.1 | March 31, 2025 | GoC and PT data on web traffic | Annually |
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme Area 3: Enhance data, knowledge and tools on illegal cannabis and public safety by working with key partners and stakeholders | PS: $2,690,792 | PS: $845,015 | Governments, law enforcement agencies and private sector stakeholders are aware of policies and practices to reduce illegal cannabis use and availability [PS] | Number of participants reached through knowledge sharing events/meetings on illegal cannabis [PS] | 100 | March 31, 2025 | Administrative data tracking tool maintained by PS Drug Policy Division | Annually |
Percentage of participants/ recipients of knowledge activities/ products reporting that they were useful [PS] | 75% | March 31, 2025 | Survey of participants in knowledge sharing activities | Annually (starting in year 2) | ||||
Policy and practice is informed by evidence [PS] | Number of knowledge products disseminated [PS] | 6 | March 31, 2025 | Administrative data tracking tool maintained by PS Drug Policy Division | Annually | |||
Percentage of stakeholders reporting that their policy and practice were informed by data and knowledge tools produced under this program [PS] | Target will be established in Q3 2023-24 | March 31, 2025 | Survey of participants in knowledge sharing activities | Annually (starting in year 2) | ||||
|
Theme 3 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Public Safety |
Serious and Organized Crime |
Data and Knowledge |
$2,690,793 |
$845,015 |
ER 3.1.1 |
PI 3.1.1.1 |
T 3.1.1.1 |
March 31, 2025 |
Administrative data tracking tool maintained by PS Drug Policy Division |
Annually |
PI 3.1.1.2 |
T 3.1.1.2 |
March 31, 2025 |
Survey of participants in knowledge sharing activities |
Annually (starting in year 2) |
||||||
Engagement |
ER 3.2.1 |
PI 3.2.1.1 |
T 3.1.2 |
March 31, 2025 |
Administrative data tracking tool maintained by PS Drug Policy Division |
Annually |
||||
PI 3.2.1.2 |
T 3.1.3 |
March 31, 2025 |
Survey of participants in knowledge sharing activities |
Annually (starting in year 2) |
Theme 4 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme Area 4: Provide intelligence, undertake enforcement activities, and support security screenings | RCMP: $24,519,000 |
RCMP: $7,758,542 |
Law Enforcement Records Checks (LERCs) are conducted in support of HC's security clearance decisions [RCMP] | Percentage of LERCs completed within negotiated service standards [RCMP] | 75% | March 31, 2024 | Evidence and Reporting – RCMP case management database | Annually |
Canadian law enforcement agencies have access to cannabis-related actionable intelligence products [RCMP] | Number of cannabis-related intelligence products [RCMP] | 14 or higherTable R9 Footnote 1 | March 31, 2024 | Manual Tracking | Annually | |||
Number of reports on trends and patterns that examine organized crime involvement in the illicit cannabis market [RCMP] | 6 | March 31, 2024 | Integrated Risk Assessment Process and Subject Matter Working Groups | Annually | ||||
Canadian law enforcement agencies are aware of organized crime and the illicit cannabis market [RCMP] | Percentage of cannabis referrals processed within the service standard [RCMP] | 90% | March 31, 2024 | Federal Policing National Cannabis Outlook Account | Annually | |||
Percentage of Policing Partners and Stakeholders who agree that CISC intelligence products inform decision-making and/or priority-setting exercises [RCMP] | 80% | March 31, 2024 | Annual RCMP CliPS Survey | Annually | ||||
Canadian law enforcement agencies' information and actionable intelligence are used to inform decision-making [RCMP] | Percentage of internally developed cannabis-related intelligence and information products disseminated to RCMP operational units, non-operational units (e.g. policy units), decision-makers, as well as other stakeholders and external partners/agencies [RCMP] | 80% shared internally 30% shared externally |
March 31, 2024 | Manual Tracking | Annually | |||
Canadian law enforcement agencies act against organized crime and the illicit cannabis market [RCMP] | Percentage increase of cannabis-related occurrences that are tied to organized crime/street gang [RCMP] | Increase of 10% or more (99 or more) | March 31, 2026 | RCMP Records Management Systems - PROS / SPROS / BC PrimeTable R9 Footnote 2 | Annually | |||
Number of cannabis-related tiered projects [RCMP] | Increase of 10% or more (8) | March 31, 2026 | RCMP Records Management Systems - PROS / SPROS / BC Prime | Annually | ||||
RCMP prevention and engagement activities support enhanced understanding among targeted partners and stakeholders, including youth and Indigenous communities [RCMP] | Percentage of targeted federal partners and stakeholders who strongly agree or agree with the statement "RCMP Federal Policing Strategic Engagement and Awareness has increased my understanding specific to the cannabis regime, organized crime, and the illicit cannabis market" [RCMP] | 45% | March 31, 2024 | RCMP Federal Partners and Stakeholders Survey | Annually | |||
Increased cannabis-specific engagements with Indigenous communities [RCMP] | Number of engagements at the leadership level between RCMP detachments/divisions and Indigenous community leadership on cannabis-related issues. [RCMP] | Target/baseline will be established in Q1 2023-24 after the first year of data collection | March 31, 2024, once baselines are established | Divisional reporting to RCMP-Indigenous Relations Services Indigenous Liaison Officers | Annually | |||
Number of RCMP-led community awareness sessions/workshops held with Indigenous communities on cannabis-related issues (e.g. town halls, school presentations, etc.) [RCMP] | Target/baseline will be established in Q1 2023-24 after the first year of data collection | March 31, 2024, once baselines are established | Annually | |||||
Enhanced capacity of target populations, including partners and stakeholders, youth and Indigenous communities, to respond to the cannabis regime [RCMP] | Number of information inquiries responded to by the Centre for Youth Crime Prevention [RCMP] | 150 | March 31, 2024 | RCMP manual tracking report – National Youth Services | Quarterly | |||
Percentage of targeted partners/stakeholders who strongly agree or agree with the statement "RCMP Federal Policing Strategic Engagement and Awareness has increased my skills/ability to respond to the cannabis regime" [RCMP] | 30% | March 31, 2024 | RCMP Federal Partners and Stakeholders Survey | Annually | ||||
Percentage of youth resource officers who positively assessed the impact of training [RCMP] | 100% | March 31, 2024 | RCMP tracking survey with School resource officers and evaluation forms from the Youth Officer Training | Annually | ||||
|
Theme 4 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Royal Canadian Mounted Police | Specialized Technical Investigative Services | Security screening | $11,756,841 | $3,865,724 | ER 4.1.1 | PI 4.1.1 | T 4.1.1 | March 31, 2024 | Evidence and Reporting – RCMP case management database | Annually |
Criminal Intelligence | Intelligence and Enforcement (including Data Management) | $9,285,028 | $2,635,765 | ER 4.1.2 | PI 4.1.2.1 | T 4.1.2.1 | March 31, 2024 | Manual Tracking | Annually | |
Federal Policing General Investigations Criminal Intelligence Service Canada | PI 4.1.2.2 | T 4.1.2.2 | March 31, 2024 | Integrated Risk Assessment Process and Subject Matter Working Groups | Annually | |||||
ER 4.1.3 | PI 4.1.3.1 | T 4.1.3.1 | March 31, 2024 | National Cannabis Outlook Account | Annually | |||||
PI 4.1.3.2 | T 4.1.3.2 | March 31, 2024 | Annual RCMP CliPS Survey | Annually | ||||||
ER 4.1.4 | PI 4.1.4 | T 4.1.4 | March 31, 2024 | Manual Tracking | Annually | |||||
ER 4.1.5 | PI 4.1.5.1 | T 4.1.5.1 | March 31, 2026 | RCMP Records Management Systems - PROS/SPROS | Annually | |||||
PI 4.1.5.2 | T 4.1.5.2 | March 31, 2026 | RCMP Records Management Systems - PROS/SPROS/BC Prime | Annually | ||||||
Public Engagement | Prevention and Engagement (including Indigenous Relations Services) | $3,477,131 | $1,257,053 | ER 4.1.6 | PI 4.1.6 | T 4.1.6 | March 31, 2024 | RCMP Federal Partners and Stakeholders Survey | Annually | |
ER 4.1.7 | PI 4.1.7.1 | T 4.1.7.1 | March 31, 2024, once baselines are established | Divisional reporting to RCMP-Indigenous Relations Services Indigenous Liaison Officers | Annually | |||||
PI 4.1.7.2 | T 4.1.7.2 | March 31, 2024, once baselines are established | Annually | |||||||
ER 4.1.8 | PI 4.1.8.1 | T 4.1.8.1 | March 31, 2024 | RCMP manual tracking report – National Youth Services | Quarterly | |||||
Operational Readiness and Response | PI 4.1.8.2 | T 4.1.8.2 | March 31, 2024 | RCMP Federal Partners and Stakeholders Survey | Annually | |||||
PI 4.1.8.3 | T 4.1.8.3 | March 31, 2024 | RCMP tracking survey with School resource officers and evaluation forms from the Youth Officer Training | Annually |
Theme 5 details
Name of theme | Total federal theme funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 federal theme planned spending (dollars) |
Theme outcome(s) | Theme performance indicator(s) | Theme target(s) | Date to achieve theme target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Theme Area 5: Prevent and interdict prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis while maintaining the flow of legitimate travelers and goods | CBSA: $28,951,613 | CBSA: $9,650,538 | Enhanced capacity to promote compliance and to enforce import and export-related laws [CBSA] | Percentage decrease in number of traveller cannabis forfeitures at the ports of entry [CBSA] | 4,460 [5% reduction (+/- 5% variance) to baseline of 4,695]Table R11 Footnote 1 | March 31, 2024 | Integrated Customs Enforcement System (ICES) | Quarterly |
Percentage decrease in number of traveller cannabis seizures at the ports of entry [CBSA] | 1,035 [5% reduction (+/- 5% variance) to baseline of 1,089]Table R11 Footnote 2 | March 31, 2024 | ICES | Quarterly | ||||
Prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis detected [CBSA] | Percentage of referred cannabis samples analyzed within 60 days [CBSA] | 90% | March 31, 2024 | Laboratory Analysis Support System (LASS) | Annually | |||
Travellers and the business community have access to timely redress mechanisms [CBSA] | Percentage of cannabis-related appeals received that are acknowledged within 10 calendar days [CBSA service standard] | 85% | March 31, 2024 | Recourse Information Management System (RIMS) | Annually | |||
Percentage of Enforcement and Trusted Traveller cannabis-related appeals received that are decided within 180 workable days [CBSA service standard] | 70% | March 31, 2024 | ||||||
Capacity to address critical data, research and surveillance gaps that present a barrier to the effective implementation and monitoring of Canada's cannabis framework pre, and at the border [CBSA] | Percentage of time cannabis reporting applications were fully functional and available to users [CBSA service standard] | 90% | March 31, 2024 | Program administrative data | Annually | |||
Assessment of the quality of policies, procedures, agreements and research papers to support Canada's cannabis framework pre, and at the border [CBSA] | Quality is rated as "Excellent," "Average" or "Below Average" | March 31, 2024 | Program administrative data | Annually | ||||
|
Theme 5 horizontal initiative activities
Departments | Link to department's Program Inventory | Horizontal initiative activity (activities) | Total federal funding allocated to each horizontal initiative activity since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 planned spending for each horizontal initiative activity (dollars) |
2023–24 horizontal initiative activity expected result(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity performance indicator(s) | 2023–24 horizontal initiative activity target(s) | Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity target | Data source | Data collection frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Canada Border Services Agency | Traveller Facilitation and Compliance | Traveller Port of Entry Processing | $20,648,067 | $6,878,593 | ER 5.1.1 | PI 5.1.1.1 | T 5.1.1.1 | March 31, 2024 | ICES | Quarterly |
PI 5.1.1.2 | T 5.1.1.2 | March 31, 2024 | ICES | Quarterly | ||||||
Policy, Implementation, Monitoring and Reporting | $3,183,837 | $1,073,568 | ER 5.1.2 | PI 5.1.2.1 | T 5.1.2.1 | March 31, 2024 | Program administrative data | Annually | ||
PI 5.1.2.2 | T 5.1.2.2 | March 31, 2024 | Program administrative data | Annually | ||||||
Field Technology | Laboratory Services | $3,304,229 | $1,093,217 | ER 5.1.3 | PI 5.1.3 | T 5.1.3 | March 31, 2024 | LASS | Anually | |
Recourse | Enforcement Appeals Procession | $1,815,480 | $605,160 | ER 5.1.4 | PI 5.1.4.1 | T 5.1.4.1 | March 31, 2024 | RIMS | Annually | |
PI 5.1.4.2 | T 5.1.4.2 | March 31, 2024 |
Total spending, all themes
Theme | Total federal funding allocated since last renewal (dollars) |
2023–24 total federal planned spending (dollars) |
---|---|---|
Theme 1 | $382,424,274 | $129,429,989 |
Theme 2 | $20,951,317 | $7,092,071 |
Theme 3 | $2,690,792 | $845,015 |
Theme 4 | $24,519,000 | $7,758,542 |
Theme 5 | $28,951,613 | $9,650,538 |
Total, all themes | $459,536,996 | $154,776,155 |
Theme 1: Implement and enforce the legislative framework
Expected results
Health Canada
- ER 1.1.1 The cannabis industry is federally regulated and licensed
- ER 1.1.2 Canadians authorized to use cannabis for medical purposes have reasonable access to legal cannabis
- ER 1.1.3 The cannabis industry is informed of the regulatory requirements for cannabis
- ER 1.1.4 The cannabis industry is compliant with cannabis-related laws and regulations
- ER 1.1.5 Health Canada has the capacity to identify potential health and safety risks with cannabis products
Performance indicators
Health Canada
- PI 1.1.1.1 Percentage of licence applications processed within service standards
- PI 1.1.1.2 Percentage of cannabis and hemp import and export permit applications processed within service standards
- PI 1.1.2 Percentage of applications for personal/designated production processed within the service standard
- PI 1.1.3 Percentage of targeted federal licence holders who indicate they have access to information to help them understand the regulatory requirements
- PI 1.1.4 Percentage of federally licensed industry that is found to be compliant with regulatory requirements
- PI 1.1.5 Percentage of cannabis-related serious adverse reaction reports reported to Health Canada's Canada Vigilance Program that are investigated
Targets
Health Canada
- T 1.1.1.1 TBD in Q1 of 2023 and Q1 of 2023-24
- T 1.1.1.2 85%
- T 1.1.2 85%
- T 1.1.3 80%
- T 1.1.4 80%
- T 1.1.5 100%
Theme 2: Provide Canadians with information needed to make informed decisions and minimize health and safety harms
Expected results
Health Canada
- ER 2.1.1 Canadian youth understand the potential health and safety risks associated with cannabis use
- ER 2.1.2 Canadians have access to enough trustworthy information on cannabis use (including health effects)
Public Health Agency of Canada
- ER 2.2.1 Canadians have access to public health knowledge products on cannabis and polysubstance use
- ER 2.2.2 Stakeholders work with the Public Health Agency of Canada to co-develop knowledge products related to the public health impacts of cannabis and polysubstance use
Public Safety Canada
- ER 2.3.1 Canadians have access to information on illicit cannabis
Performance indicators
Health Canada
- PI 2.1.1 Percentage of youth (grades 7-12) who perceive that there is "no risk" in smoking cannabis on a regular basis
- PI 2.1.2 Percentage of Canadians who strongly agree or somewhat agree that they have access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of cannabis to make informed decisions
Public Health Agency of Canada
- PI 2.2.1 Number of Canadians accessing public health knowledge products developed on cannabis and polysubstance use
- PI 2.2.2 Number of knowledge mobilization projects co-developed with stakeholders on cannabis and polysubstance use
Public Safety Canada
- PI 2.3.1 Percentage increase in web traffic on illicit cannabis pages on relevant GoC and PT websites
Targets
Health Canada
- T 2.1.1 7%
- T 2.1.2 75%
Public Health Agency of Canada
- T 2.2.1 100, 000 or more
- T 2.2.2 10
Public Safety Canada
- 2.3.1 T Baseline will be established in Q1 2023-2024
Theme 3: Enhance data, knowledge and tools on illegal cannabis and public safety by working with key partners and stakeholders
Expected results
Public Safety Canada
- ER 3.1.1 Governments, law enforcement agencies and private sector stakeholders are aware of policies and practices to reduce illegal cannabis use and availability
- ER 3.2.1 Policy and practice is informed by evidence
Performance indicators
Public Safety Canada
- PI 3.1.1.1 Number of participants reached through knowledge sharing events/meetings on illegal cannabis
- PI 3.1.1.2 Percentage of participants / recipients of knowledge activities / products reporting that they were useful
- PI 3.2.1.1 Number of knowledge products disseminated
- PI 3.2.1.2 Percentage of stakeholders reporting that their policy and practice were informed by data and knowledge tools produced under this program
Targets
Public Safety Canada
- T 3.1.1.1 100
- T 3.1.1.2 75%
- T 3.2.1.1 6
- T 3.2.1.2 Target will be established in Q3 2023-2024
Theme 4: Provide intelligence, undertake enforcement activities, and support security screenings
Expected results
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- ER 4.1.1 Law Enforcement Records Checks (LERCs) are conducted in support of HC's security clearance decisions
- ER 4.1.2 Canadian law enforcement agencies have access to cannabis-related actionable intelligence products
- ER 4.1.3 Canadian law enforcement agencies are aware of organized crime and the illicit cannabis market
- ER 4.1.4 Canadian law enforcement agencies' information and actionable intelligence are used to inform decision-making
- ER 4.1.5 Canadian law enforcement agencies act against organized crime and the illicit cannabis market
- ER 4.1.6 RCMP prevention and engagement activities support enhanced understanding among targeted partners and stakeholders, including youth and Indigenous communities
- ER 4.1.7 Increased cannabis-specific engagements with Indigenous communities
- ER 4.1.8 Enhanced capacity of target populations, including partners and stakeholders, youth and Indigenous communities, to respond to the cannabis regime
Performance indicators
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- PI 4.1.1 Percentage of LERCs completed within negotiated service standards
- PI 4.1.2.1 Number of cannabis-related intelligence products
- PI 4.1.2.2 Number of reports on trends and patterns that examine organized crime involvement in the illicit cannabis market
- PI 4.1.3.1 Percentage of cannabis referrals processed within the service standard
- PI 4.1.3.2 Percentage of Policing Partners and Stakeholders who agree that CISC intelligence products inform decision-making and/or priority-setting exercises
- PI 4.1.4 Percentage of internally developed cannabis-related intelligence and information products disseminated to RCMP operational units, non-operational units (e.g. policy units), decision-makers, as well as other stakeholders and external partners/agencies
- PI 4.1.5.1 Percentage increase of cannabis-related occurrences that are tied to organized crime/street gang
- PI 4.1.5.2 Number of cannabis-related tiered projects
- PI 4.1.6 Percentage of targeted federal partners and stakeholders who strongly agree or agree with the statement "RCMP Federal Policing Strategic Engagement and Awareness has increased my understanding specific to the cannabis regime, organized crime, and the illicit cannabis market"
- PI 4.1.7.1 Number of engagements at the leadership level between RCMP detachments/divisions and Indigenous community leadership on cannabis-related issues
- PI 4.1.7.2 Number of RCMP-led community awareness sessions/workshops held with Indigenous communities on cannabis-related issues (e.g. town halls, school presentations, etc.)
- PI 4.1.8.1 Number of information inquiries responded to by the Centre for Youth Crime Prevention
- PI 4.1.8.2 Percentage of targeted partners/stakeholders who strongly agree or agree with the statement "RCMP Federal Policing Strategic Engagement and Awareness has increased my skills/ability to respond to the cannabis regime"
- PI 4.1.8.3 Percentage of youth resource officers who positively assessed the impact of training
Targets
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- T 4.1.1 75%
- T 4.1.2.1 14 or higherFootnote 3
- T 4.1.2.2 6
- T 4.1.3.1 90%
- T 4.1.3.2 80%
- T 4.1.4 80% shared internally (% of total products), 30% shared externally (% of total products)
- T 4.1.5.1 Increase of 10% or more (99 or more)
- T 4.1.5.2 8 (increase of 10% or more)
- T 4.1.6 45%
- T 4.1.7.1 Target/baseline will be established in Q1 2023-24 after the first year of data collection
- T 4.1.7.2 Target/baseline will be established in Q1 2023-24 after the first year of data collection
- T 4.1.8.1 150
- T 4.1.8.2 30%
- T 4.1.8.3 100%
Theme 5: Prevent and interdict prohibited cross-border movement of cannabis while maintaining the flow of legitimate travelers and goods
Expected results
Canada Border Services Agency
- ER 5.1.1 Enhanced capacity to promote compliance and to enforce import and export-related laws
- ER 5.1.2 Capacity to address critical data, research and surveillance gaps that present a barrier to the effective implementation and monitoring of Canada's cannabis framework pre, and at the border
- ER 5.1.3 Prohibited cross border movement of cannabis is detected
- ER 5.1.4 Travellers and the business community have access to timely redress mechanisms CBSA actions and decisions in a timely manner
Performance indicators
Canada Border Services Agency
- PI 5.1.1.1 Percentage decrease in number of traveller cannabis forfeitures at the ports of entry
- PI 5.1.1.2 Percentage decrease in number of traveller cannabis seizures at the ports of entry
- PI 5.1.2.1 Percentage of time cannabis reporting applications were fully functional and available to users
- PI 5.1.2.2 Assessment of the quality of policies, procedures, agreements and research papers to support Canada's cannabis framework pre, and at the border
- PI 5.1.3 Percentage of referred cannabis samples analyzed within 60 days
- PI 5.1.4.1 Percentage of cannabis-related appeals received that are acknowledged within 10 calendar days
- PI 5.1.4.2 Percentage of Enforcement and Trusted Traveller appeals received that are decided within 180 workable days
Targets
Canada Border Services Agency
- T 5.1.1.1 4,460 [5% reduction (+/- 5% variance) to baseline of 4,695]
- T 5.1.1.2 1,035 [5% reduction (+/- 5% variance) to baseline of 1,089]
- T 5.1.2.1 90%
- T 5.1.2.2 Quality is rated as "Excellent," "Average" or "Below Average
- T 5.1.3 90%
- T 5.1.4.1 85%
- T 5.1.4.2 70%
United Nations 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals
Health Canada
The following provides examples of how Health Canada programming supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supplements the information outlined in Health Canada's Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy and in the SDG overview section of the Departmental Plan.
SDG 3 Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
Planned initiatives
Canada's Healthy Eating Strategy aims to improve the food environment in Canada to make it easier for Canadians to make healthier choices. The strategy is made up of complementary initiatives to: improve healthy eating information, improve the nutritional quality of foods, protect vulnerable populations and support increased access to and availability of nutritious foods.
Health Canada is implementing strategies to show Canadians how to use Canada's Food Guide and apply food guide recommendations in their everyday lives. This includes a social marketing campaign directed at youth and young adults from lower income and culturally diverse populations, to support them in developing their food skills including how to use recipes to cook healthy meals and snacks. As well, a food guide monthly e-newsletter will prioritize 'hard to reach' populations, including newcomers to Canada.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 3.1 Canadians adopt healthy behaviours.
- CIF Target: By March 31, 2024, 30% of Canadians report eating fruits and vegetables 5 or more times per day
Through Bilateral Agreements for Home and Community Care and Mental Health and Addiction Services with provincial and territorial governments, Health Canada continues to expand access to care at home and in the community, reducing reliance on more expensive facility-based infrastructure. These agreements also provide funding for provinces and territories to expand access to community-based mental health and substance use services, with a focus on integrating services with primary care, expanding services for children and youth and for individuals with complex cases.
This work is strengthened through the establishment and application of standards for long-term care to ensure seniors, and those in care, live in safe and dignified conditions. Similarly, the development of national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, will enable the use of evidence-based tools to help ensure services meet a consistent level of care and are sensitive to a wide range of needs. Standards will also help to advance equity in the delivery of high-quality mental health and substance use services for diverse populations that face barriers to care.
The Wellness Together Canada portal helps to advance equitable access to quality mental health and substance use care for Canadians through mental health and substance use supports and services that can be easily accessed online, by phone or by text at no cost. This supports populations facing barriers to care, including those in isolated or remote areas.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambitions:
- 3.7 Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives
- CIF Target: Percentage of Canadians who perceived their mental health as very good to excellent
- 3.12 Canada prevents causes of premature death
- CIF Target: Reduction from the previous year in the incidence of opioid and stimulant overdose related harms
The Government of Canada introduced Canada's first national dental benefit to improve access to dental care services for children under 12, since oral health is a major contributor to overall health and well-being and evidence has shown that socioeconomic factors, including income, education, employment, are determinants of oral health.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 3 Canadians have healthy and satisfying lives
- CIF Target: No specific target
Canada's Tobacco Strategy aims to help Canadians who smoke, to quit or reduce the harms of their addiction to nicotine and to protect the health of young people and non-smokers from the dangers of tobacco use.
Health Canada continues to support organizations at the community, regional and national levels through the Substance Use and Addictions Program by furthering public education and awareness about the use of tobacco and vaping products through projects aiming to:
- Inform Canadians about cessation interventions for people who smoke and youth who vape;
- Encourage and support attempts to quit; and,
- Address information or knowledge gaps such as the health impacts of vaping.
Health Canada will also contribute to strengthening the global implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) through its role as Regional Coordinator for the Americas for the Conference of the Parties to the FCTC.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambitions:
- 3.2 Canadians adopt healthy behaviours
- CIF target: By 2023, less than 10% of students (grades 7-12) have used a vaping product (e-cigarettes only) in the past 30 days
- 3.13 Canada prevents causes of premature death
- CIF Target: By 2035, less than 5% of Canadians (aged 15+) are cigarette smokers
The Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy incorporates a comprehensive, collaborative, compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy with the aim to prevent and minimize substance use harms through initiatives that address substance use prevention, harm reduction and treatment.
Health Canada continues to modernize the policies and operational procedures governing supervised consumption sites and services, to support those most vulnerable and impacted by the overdose crisis, including:
- Establishing temporary overdose prevention sites to help people stay safe from overdoses; and,
- Establishing other harm reduction activities (drug checking/virtual supervision of drug consumption) to prevent overdoses and overdose deaths.
Health Canada continues to support organizations at the community, regional and national levels to improve access to prevention, harm reduction and treatment services, naloxone training and distribution, and the safer supply of prescription opioids.
There will be particular focus on priority populations (e.g., children and youth, men aged 20-60 working in trades, Indigenous Peoples, Black Canadians and other racialized groups, etc.) and applying an equity lens to data and policy.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambitions:
- 3.4 Canadians adopt healthy behaviours (prevalence of harmful alcohol use)
- CIF Target: no specific target
- 3.12 Canada prevents causes of premature death
- CIF Target: Reduction from the previous year in the incidence of opioid and stimulant overdose related harms
SDG 6 Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
Planned initiatives
Health Canada's Water Quality Program develops and updates health-based Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality in partnership with federal, provincial, and territorial partners for use by all jurisdictions in Canada as the basis for their drinking water requirements.
Health Canada participates in the Strategic Water Management on Reserve Committee, which provides a key opportunity for meaningful engagement between the Assembly of First Nations and the federal government. The committee provides a forum for discussion and joint strategic action on safe drinking water and effective wastewater management in First Nations communities south of 60˚.
Health Canada also works with Indigenous Services Canada to engage with First Nations organizations in the prioritization and review processes for drinking water guidelines.
Health Canada's international efforts to support global health initiatives to improve water quality include providing scientific advice and participating in collaborative research through fora such as the WHO Collaborating Centre on Environmental Health, the Pan-American Health Organization, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 6.2 Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
- CIF Target: No specific target
SDG 11 Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
Planned initiatives
Health Canada's Air Quality Program supports actions to improve air quality and health for all Canadians by conducting research on the exposure of Canadians to air pollution and on the health impacts of air pollution, assessing the health risks from air pollutants and pollutant sources, and analyzing the health benefits of actions to improve air quality. This work enables the Program to contribute to updates to the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, which drive the continuous improvement of air quality across the country.
Health Canada conducts targeted research to better understand and address the needs of individuals disproportionately affected by air pollution and strives to identify and assess the health risks through its science, research, and assessment work.
Health Canada is working in collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada to identify priority areas for Indigenous communities with regard to air quality, including potential involvement in air quality monitoring and management based on recent research studies and consultation. This includes a project to support community-level adoption of effective interventions to mitigate health impacts of smoke from wildfires and wood heating that includes Indigenous, rural, and remote communities.
Health Canada's international efforts to support global health initiatives to improve air quality include:
- Providing scientific advice, participating in collaborative research, and sharing information through the WHO Collaborating Centre on Environmental Health, the Pan-American Health Organization, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
- Reviewing the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement in collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 11.3 Canadians live in healthy, accessible, and sustainable cities and communities
- CIF target: Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air pollutants concentrations are less or equal to the standards from 60% in 2005 to 85% in 2030
SDG 12 Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
Planned Initiatives
The Government of Canada's Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) aims to protect human health and the environment by reducing risks related to chemical substances in air, water, soil, and consumer and industrial products and processes. Key activities include risk assessment, risk management, compliance promotion and enforcement, research, monitoring and surveillance, and collaboration, outreach, and engagement.
Health Canada continues to conduct research to better understand the effects of microplastics on human health and to support the Government of Canada's agenda for reducing plastic waste.
Health Canada will also continue to learn more about early life exposures to environmental chemicals in Canadians. For the first time, the Canadian Health Measures Survey will collect data on exposures in children aged one to two years, providing key information to support future health protection efforts.
Work is also underway in CMP risk assessment and risk management activities to enhance consideration of disproportionately impacted populations who, due to greater susceptibility or greater exposure, may be more vulnerable to experiencing adverse health effects from exposure to chemical substances. New guidance will be developed for risk assessors, as well as improved communication tools to better communicate work in this area to Canadians.
Under the CMP, the Government has committed to advancing enhanced and meaningful engagement with Indigenous partners, including:
- Seeking dialogue with National Indigenous Organizations on distinctions-based approaches to Inuit, Métis, and First Nations' chemicals management priorities; and,
- Provision of dedicated contribution funding to support the participation of Indigenous partners in the CMP and environmental health programs, thereby enriching the Program with diverse Indigenous perspectives.
Health Canada continues to advance the engagement of the Canadian health sector in developing a global framework on the sound management of chemicals through participation in:
- The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM), including the Intersessional Process to establish a new framework for the global sound management of chemicals; and,
- The WHO Chemicals and Health Network.
Health Canada also provides technical and policy expertise to strengthen international and intersectoral collaboration on environmental determinants of health, including chemicals, air, water, and climate change, by:
- Collaborating with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on chemical safety and biosafety programs and initiatives; and,
- Hosting the WHO Collaborating Centre on Environmental Health.
In support of both CMP and its 2021 pesticide regulation commitments, Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) Transformation Agenda has launched a water sampling program to inform the development of a national water monitoring program for pesticides. This program will collect surface water and groundwater samples supported by a network of sampling partners across Canada.
Additionally, a framework is being developed to collect, monitor, analyze and publicly report on pesticide use information in Canada. Data from these initiatives will help to better inform pesticide risk assessment and risk management decisions and contribute to strengthening protection of human health and the environment from risks posed by pesticides. Health Canada is integrating the application of an equity lens to pesticide data and policy to address disproportionately impacted populations such as children and youth, Indigenous Peoples, and migrant workers.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 12 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
- CIF Target: No specific target
SDG 13 Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
Planned Initiatives
Health Canada's Climate Change Program aims to increase knowledge, capacity, and tools on the human health impacts and adaptation approaches to climate change available to healthcare and public health professionals, emergency preparedness officials, and provincial and local decision-makers across Canada. The Program also aims to increase the level of awareness among Canadians, including disproportionately impacted populations, of climate change and health risks (e.g., from extreme heat), and ways to protect themselves and reduce health risks. Climate-related hazards (e.g., floods, extreme heat events, wildfires, hurricanes, drought, sea-level rise, and melting permafrost) can affect the physical and mental health of people in Canada, and health systems.
Health Canada supports the Health and Wellbeing component of the Government of Canada's first National Adaptation Strategy, which will incorporate justice, inclusion, diversity, and equality considerations for adaptation action.
Health Canada's international efforts in support of global climate change and health initiatives include collaboration with the WHO and other partners, for example:
- Co-chairing the Climate Resilient Health Systems working group of the Alliance on Transformative Action on Climate and Health, focusing on building climate resilience and adaptation to help inform countries' efforts to protect their populations from current, emerging, and future health impacts and threats of climate change.
- Informing the development of technical publications to support the WHO Collaborating Centre on Environmental health to build sustainable health systems and strengthen climate resilience in response to countries' requests for technical support.
This work contributes to advancing Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) Ambition:
- 13.3 Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
- CIF Target: No specific target
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