Message from the Minister

Since our last Corporate Business Plan, the environment in which the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) operates has changed significantly. In the wake of the events of September 11, our customs program responded to dramatically higher levels of concern for personal and economic security. The fact that we could move quickly, and with additional resources in the federal budget, fast-track the implementation of measures that had already been developed, is a tribute to this organization's capacity for innovation and learning.

As a subscriber to the theory of continuous improvement, I believe that we must constantly strive to innovate in delivering service to Canadians. We must have a strong capacity to adjust to changing realities and anticipate Canada's future needs. The CCRA, a unique innovation in modern governance, allows us to respond quickly and effectively to these challenges.

With an annual budget of over $3 billion and more than a quarter of the federal public service, the CCRA is, by any measure, this country's largest public-sector service provider. Mobilizing people and resources quickly and responsibly in such a diverse and complex organization is a significant undertaking. With the Customs Action Plan well underway, the CCRA has been able to accelerate the modernization of our border system to keep Canadians safe, terrorists out, and our borders open to legitimate international trade and travel that is so vital to the growth and prosperity of our nation. As well, our ongoing work with our American partners will enable us to contribute to a modern "smart" border for traders and travellers alike.

As we look to the future, we know that an increasingly global economy and the changing demographic profile of the Canadian population will pose new challenges for our organization. The CCRA is responding with a more focussed service vision, known as Future Directions, which is being developed in consultation with individuals, business leaders, and staff. Central to this effort will be the most effective use of new technologies to connect with more Canadians on-line, improving the accessibility, convenience, and reliability of our services, while at the same time lessening the reporting and compliance burden on our clients.

The services delivered by the CCRA are critical to Canada's stability and security, and to the prosperity of our country. It is essential that these services be delivered efficiently, at reasonable cost, and in close co-operation with our partners across government. I welcome the opportunity to work with the people at the CCRA and my parliamentary colleagues in ensuring that this organization is respected by Canadians for its integrity and fairness, and acknowledged for being an innovative service organization.

The Honourable Elinor Caplan
Minister of National Revenue

Date modified:

2002-03-21