HUMA Committee Report
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On 16 February 2004, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) introduced a call-for-proposals process and three other national policy directives designed to improve the administration, management and accountability of contribution programs funded through the Department. These administrative directives were implemented almost immediately and, not surprisingly, many organizations that deliver these programs were caught off guard.
The transition period following the implementation of the four new national administrative directives has not been smooth. Some organizations that deliver contribution projects on behalf of HRSDC have experienced discontinuity in service delivery as a consequence of delays in project approval and funding, some have halted the intake of clients while awaiting funding approval, while others have witnessed a total collapse of their services.
Members of the Committee view very seriously the adverse impact of these directives, and on 24 February 2005 agreed to undertake a study of this issue. Our hearings began on 8 March 2005. Since then, the Committee has heard from more than 25 witnesses and has received submissions from many interested individuals and groups.
Our report begins with some background information on measures that HRSDC has introduced to enhance the administration, management and accountability of contribution programs. This is followed by a discussion of the key issues that surfaced during our hearings. The issues include the implementation of the four national directives, the call-for-proposals process, the selection criteria, the administrative burden, the duration of funding, accountability for program results, and HRSDC’s management and personnel.