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Excellence in service to Canadians to ensure the
sustainable development and safe use of Canadian waters. |
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It is our mission, as DFO employees, to deliver to
Canadians the following outcomes:
- Safe and Accessible
Waterways;
- Healthy and Productive
Aquatic Ecosystems; and
- Sustainable Fisheries
and Aquaculture.
In working toward these outcomes, the Department will
be guided by the principles of sound scientific
knowledge and effective management.
On behalf of the Government of Canada, DFO is
responsible for developing and implementing policies and
programs in support of Canada’s scientific, ecological,
social and economic interests in oceans and fresh
waters. DFO is a national and international
leader in marine safety and in the management of oceans
and freshwater resources. Departmental activities and
presence on Canadian waters help to ensure the safe
movement of people and goods. As a sustainable
development department, DFO will integrate environment,
economic and social perspectives to ensure Canada’s
oceans and freshwater resources benefit this generation
and those to come. The Department’s guiding
legislation includes the Oceans Act, which
charges the Minister with leading oceans management and
providing coast guard and hydrographic services on
behalf of the Government of Canada, and the Fisheries
Act, which confers responsibility to the Minister
for the management of fisheries, habitat and
aquaculture. The Department is also one of the three
responsible authorities under the Species at Risk Act.
In real terms, what do we do?
- Save lives.
- Work with security forces to ensure the safe and
secure use of Canada’s waterways.
- Help with ship-to-shore communication, navigation,
and clear passageways for safe water travel.
- Study, conserve and protect aquatic ecosystems.
- Conduct scientific research and related
activities, which are vital to the understanding and
sustainable management of Canada’s oceans and aquatic
resources.
- Work in collaboration to manage the commercial,
recreational and Aboriginal fisheries.
- Provide services to fishermen such as issuing
licences.
- Create the conditions to support a vibrant and
sustainable aquaculture industry.
- Maintain a network of harbours.
- Ensure compliance with environmental standards and
regulations in support of economic development and
other activities.
- Provide high-quality hydrographic data, products
and services.
- Co-ordinate clean-up efforts of pollution and oil
spills.
- Develop and promote the wise use of technology to
ensure the long-term health of Canada’s waters.
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