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Canadian Rural Partnership
Annual Report to Parliament 2001 | 2002 
Celebrating Success in Rural CanadaAcrobat Portable Document Format (.pdf) For more information, please contact:
The Canadian Rural Partnership, now in its fifth year, continues to build upon a strong foundation based on dialogues, partnerships, an information outreach program and the Rural Lens—the government's process of seeing the impact of issues through the eyes of rural Canadians. From the outset, our objectives have been to reconnect the Government of Canada with rural Canadians, and to strengthen the economic and social foundations of rural Canada. The success of the Partnership is evident through ongoing grassroots Rural Dialogue meetings with citizens across the country who know that a strong and successful Canada can only exist when all of its components—both rural and urban—are strong. Rural citizens stressed the importance of this recently at the second National Rural Conference held in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Following the conference, the Government of Canada announced the investment of $55 million into the renewal of the Partnership for another five years. This investment was included as part of the new Agriculture Policy Framework (APF), the federal–provincial–territorial initiative being developed with industry to help the Canadian agriculture sector better respond to increasing consumer demands and global competition. The Government of Canada will make $5.2 billion in new investments in the agricultural sector over the next six years, including $3.4 billion to implement the APF. By investing in the future of the agriculture and the agri-food industry, we are investing in the growth and well-being of our rural communities. Celebrating Success in Rural Canada highlights some of our achievements over the last year. As Minister Coordinating Rural Affairs, I am very pleased to join my colleague, Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State for Rural Development and the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario in presenting this report to Parliament Lyle Vanclief
Our strategic approach to addressing issues faced by Canadians living in rural areas is based on, but not limited to, four key components that have produced the greatest results:
Our bottom-up approach to decision making is a success. This was evident at the second National Rural Conference which was held in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island where over 500 Canadians came together to share information and discuss ideas for community capacity building in their communities. The conference marked the release of the Rural Action Plan Report Card, designed to document the progress of federal departments and agencies in their response to action items identified at the first National Rural Conference. Canadians in both rural and urban regions of the country have made these results possible. However, the work doesn't stop here. We plan to keep the momentum going by working closely with 29 federal departments and agencies, other levels of government and community stakeholders, in order to enhance our efforts to help build a strong and sustainable rural Canada. We are also consulting with provinces and territories to develop a National Rural Policy Framework to guide a long-term action plan for rural Canada. This third Annual Report to Parliament reflects the continuing success of these efforts in rural and remote areas across the country. Andy Mitchell
Celebrating Success In Rural CanadaThe Government of Canada is listening to rural citizens, to provide the tools and strategic resources required to build successful communities. The 2000–2001 Annual Report to Parliament outlined the key priority initiatives of the Government of Canada, designed to support sustainable solutions and innovation in rural communities. The goal was to enhance the quality of life for rural Canadians. This 2001–2002 Annual Report celebrates the success of the Government of Canada working collaboratively with rural citizens to build strong communities. The results of ongoing rural initiatives enrich the lives of Canadians by assisting local champions to develop grassroots solutions to create a better tomorrow. Through these initiatives, such as the development and implementation of a National Rural Policy Framework, the benefits will continue to grow as all Canadians share in our knowledge-based economy. What is success in rural Canada? The answer can be found in the success stories provided in this report. They illustrate fundamental activity that will endure and add value to the quality of life in rural Canada. From promoting opportunities, to improving health care and reaching out to youth to make healthy lifestyle choices, success comes from innovation and initiatives that help rural Canadians to enjoy an enriched quality of life. Building A Successful Future The strength of rural Canada lies in its communities. The second National Rural Conference, held in Charlottetown in April 2002, involved rural and remote Canadians in decision making, helping them to stay connected and active in creating solutions in their own communities. From that platform, the Government of Canada supported the Rural Development Initiative, with $2.8 million in funding, announced by the Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State for Rural Development. A commitment was made to develop a national network of rural organizations, and to provide funding to expand the Service Canada rural network. The development of a national youth network, also announced at the conference, will give young Canadians from rural and remote areas the opportunity to contribute today to shape their future. The release of the Rural Action Plan Report Card (see Appendix 1) at the second National Rural Conference gave a clear view of the progress the Government of Canada had made in addressing the priorities of rural and remote Canadians. Sustaining Healthy Communities The Government of Canada—through the Canadian Rural Partnership—is committed to its results-oriented approach to achieve long-term, sustainable outcomes. Guided by a clear vision of the measurable effects of initiatives, and through listening and working with rural Canadians, together we will continue to enhance the quality of life in rural communities and celebrate further success in rural Canada.
Celebrating Success In Rural CanadaPeople are changing the landscape of rural and remote Canada. By building and growing together, we help to create sustainable and successful, bottom-up solutions. The answers are in our own backyard—opportunities to use innovation and community-based solutions to overcome challenges at the grassroots level. The second Annual Report demonstrated the ongoing commitment of the Government of Canada to enhance the quality of life for rural Canadians. This commitment has remained strong over the last year. This third Annual Report of the Canadian Rural Partnership celebrates the success of people in working together, with the support of the Government of Canada, to build sustainable, significant development in their own communities. It highlights some of the ways that communities in the heartland, urban-adjacent, and northern and remote areas of Canada are using innovative ideas to create local solutions to local challenges. The Rural Action Plan Report Card (see Appendix 1) outlines the progress that the Government of Canada has made in addressing the priorities of Canadians living in these regions. Through the Canadian Rural Partnership, the Government of Canada listens to rural citizens, and provides strategic tools and resources to assist communities to realize the benefits of networking and resource sharing. The Canadian Rural Partnership is the key rural policy initiative which works to ensure that programs, policies and activities are co-ordinated to provide support to rural and remote communities across Canada. The Canadian Rural Partnership helps us ensure that people can organize themselves to mobilize their communities, define goals and carry out plans that improve the quality of life in rural Canada. The Rural Secretariat manages the Canadian Rural Partnership. The work of the Rural Secretariat has led to tangible and positive changes in policy development and coordination, citizen engagement, development and dissemination of research and information, building strategic partnerships, and community support. The Canadian Rural Partnership Web site (www.rural.gc.ca) and the Rural Action Plan Report Card provide details on these endeavours. In the past four years, the Canadian Rural Partnership has been proud to work with rural and remote Canada to create a new approach to engaging people to make their own decisions. The Government of Canada has helped people at the local level acquire the tools and skills to stimulate sustainable development in their communities. Through information and resource sharing, the government's commitment to supporting a successful future in rural and remote Canada is becoming a reality. Building Successful Communities The key to the long-term success and viability of rural Canada lies in its communities. What is a successful community? It is one that leads by example, where innovation and new ideas are allowed to flourish. A successful community is one that involves young people—our leaders of today and tomorrow—helping them contribute today to build their world. A successful community has the ability to develop the skills to embrace our knowledge-based economy in the new millennium. A successful community attracts, develops and retains people—essential in building the capacity of rural communities. A successful community is ‘healthy' socially, culturally and economically, and deals with environmental issues in a responsible manner. By listening to Canadians, the Government of Canada has learned how to support the fundamental elements that build successful communities. Our Success Stories The year 2001–2002 saw Canadians working as a team to build a better future. From hundreds of projects affecting millions of Canadians, the energy and spirit of rural and remote Canada has delivered dramatic achievements. Through the innovative efforts of dedicated residents in rural and remote Canada, the Government of Canada continues to strengthen its commitment to respond effectively to support solutions that will promote economic and social well-being. This third Annual Report of the Canadian Rural Partnership focuses on the success of our nation—in the heartland, urban-adjacent areas, and northern and remote regions. The success stories contained in this report are examples that illustrate how Canadians working together can have an ongoing positive impact on our quality of life. They demonstrate that innovation and grassroots initiatives are helping to shape a brighter future, one that allows all Canadians to benefit from our knowledge-based society. From improving health care in the remote areas of the country, to helping youth make positive lifestyle decisions, Canadians are helping each other benefit from everything our knowledge-based society has to offer. As stated in the Speech from the Throne 2002, the Government of Canada will support the efforts of Canadians by targeting its regional development activities to better meet the needs of the knowledge economy and address the distinct challenges of Canada's heartland, urban-adjacent, and northern and remote communities. Our Commitment To Share The second National Rural Conference, held on April 4–6, 2002 in Charlottetown, P.E.I., demonstrated the depth and sincerity of Canadians in rural and remote Canada. Issues and concerns became challenges for which solutions will be achieved. The valuable involvement of young people will help to shape our country for the generation to come, with the resources and skills to succeed. The creation of a National Rural Network will provide a means to bring rural communities together to share strengths, services and information. The conference was the launching pad for $2.8 million in federal funding, announced by the Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State for Rural Development, to support the Rural Development Initiative. Other announcements and commitments from the conference include:
The future offers an exciting journey that will lead to healthier communities sharing strengths and common bonds. The Government of Canada made a commitment to put rural and remote Canadians' priorities into action. The National Rural Conferences have helped to shape the agenda. Teamwork is paying off. All that is needed is you.
The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that all Canadians can benefit from the unique solutions offered by our knowledge-based society. Access to health care is a critical concern for those who live where medical resources and facilities may not be available. The following success story demonstrates action, through partnerships and the dedicated efforts of community leaders, to support a revolutionary, sustainable, long-term method to bring modern medical attention to remote communities. Telehealth - A Cure For Isolated First Nations In Northern OntarioLiving in remote Canada has many advantages. Nature is still master. Those who thrive away from urban development have a deep appreciation for their natural environment. However, there are challenges—especially where personal health and medical attention are concerned. Poplar Hill, a remote community in northern Ontario, is a typical example. A community nurse is only available part-time to take care of all day-to-day health concerns for about 300 residents. Patients who need special consultation or treatment must fly to Thunder Bay, Sioux Lookout or Winnipeg. They often need an escort who can translate into Ojibway for them. All too often, people who need medical attention choose to just stay home and suffer. It is too much effort and strain to seek the help they need. The Telehealth Solution Today, there is a healthy alternative—telehealth! This project helps people in remote communities receive attention from health care professionals through computer video conferencing—without having to leave their community. The Kuh-ke-nah Network (K-NET) of Smart First Nations Aboriginal Demonstration Project is providing this solution through Industry Canada's Smart Communities program, involving five First Nations in northern Ontario. Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor), Industry Canada, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), and Health Canada worked collaboratively to provide critical funding. "A lot of people would cancel their appointments with specialists because it's so stressful for them to not know if a person will be available to escort them, or if there'll be an interpreter for them when they get to the hospital," says Rita Wassaykeesic, Poplar Hill's local telehealth coordinator. When K-NET's telehealth pilot project rolled out in April 2002, many of those patients became able to ‘see' a specialist from the comfort of their own community. Not only does telehealth save both travel time and health care costs, the system reduces stress for patients. In some ways, telehealth can be a cure for related ailments—like depression and even homesickness. Through video conferencing, telehealth will also deliver services like telepsychiatry and patient education programs. Families are also able to ‘visit' with relatives who are in hospital. Communities Helping Each Other Setting up the advanced technology made up a large part of K-NET's time and resources. However, the smart community has also stayed focussed on the heart of health care: personal relationships. For example, K-NET has made a point of hiring local people as the telehealth community coordinators. "If the telehealth coordinators are from their own communities, they have a vested interest in promoting and learning telehealth, and keeping it going," says Donna Williams, a nurse who coordinates telehealth education for the project. Coordinators received specialized training to enable them to handle the wide variety of challenges patients may present. They attended a week-long intensive training session last January at Balmertown, Ontario—headquarters for the telehealth project. Since taking up their posts in the five pilot project communities in spring 2002, the coordinators have seen plenty of Donna. Each week, she travels to one of the participating First Nations communities—Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Keewaywin, North Spirit Lake and Poplar Hill—to provide hands-on training. Training focuses on three areas:
Some local coordinators, like Rita, have already had health care training. For others, it is a completely new experience, and they are learning as they go. "Everybody's coming along very well," says Donna. "When they learn the technological part, it's very intimidating, but as they pick up those skills, they're getting excited, and feeling a lot more confident. They're already starting to promote the potential benefits of telehealth in their communities. I really think we're just at the beginning of what's going to be a revolution in health care access for First Nations." A Big Effort—A Bigger Pay Off The telehealth project is a prime example of people working together to create a higher quality of life. Partnerships—support and resource sharing within government and the private sector—are responsible for the infrastructure to make telehealth a reality. The project was only made possible and is totally dependent on the infrastructure and network capacity through the efforts of a number of government and private sector partners. FedNor was instrumental in bringing partners together to deal with the infrastructure needs of these remote communities and contributed approximately $10 million toward building telecommunications and broadband capacity within 18 First Nation communities in the north. Of the total, $2 million went to K-NET, representing the five First Nations identified in northwestern Ontario. FedNor also provided $500,000 toward the purchase of telemedicine equipment, used as part of this project. FedNor funding helped link K-NET with the much larger "North Network" providing them with access to 60 sites throughout northern Ontario. This access includes a number of medical sites which are critical to the pilot project. Industry Canada, INAC and Health Canada were also significant partners through activities that are broader in scope than just this project. To learn more about K-NET and telehealth, visit the Web site at http://telehealth.knet.ca/.
Healthy communities are vital to our individual and national well-being. Canadians have a collective responsibility to protect our children from exploitation in all its forms. The Government of Canada supports resourceful initiatives that encourage our national youth to be the leaders of their world today, and for tomorrow. The following success story shows an innovative approach for cooperative effort and positive peer influence to provide a healthy alternative for our young people. Take A ‘DARE' To Resist Drug AbuseYoung people face choices every day. Constable Kevin McDonald believes DARE can make all the difference. Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) is an RCMP program aimed at helping young people make healthy lifestyle choices to avoid drug abuse. DARE is not just another lecture about the dangers of substance abuse. "It's more of a life-skills program," says McDonald, who is based at the RCMP detachment in Sherwood Park, a suburb of Edmonton. "No one was taking the time to explain to a lot of these kids that the choices they make now determine where they go in life." Originally targeted to grade six students, DARE has expanded in some communities to include junior and senior high school students, even adults. While there are no discernible measuring sticks to tell police the program is successful, you do not have to convince McDonald it works. "From an instructor's point of view, you can never measure a substance-abuse program on numbers. If it helps one or two children, it has done its job." DARE To Choose DARE helps kids learn to be assertive and not succumb to peer pressure. It shows them how to maintain self-esteem and resolve conflicts without violence. After 17 weeks, the students 'graduate' in a ceremony that often attracts parents and other family members. Every instructor has seen how DARE can make the difference in the life of a struggling young person. McDonald recalls a boy from a broken home who dropped out of school at 13 and began living on the street. He watched a friend self-destruct from drugs before using what he learned in DARE to save himself. At 17, with social services support, he returned to school and graduated that year. "If we had that program in all elementary schools, there's no doubt in my mind, we'd see a difference on the street," says McDonald, a 26-year veteran. "A change in the attitude of the kids, a change in the demand for a lot of the drugs out there." Financial support from the Canadian Rural Partnership helps keep Constable McDonald's dream growing. After five years with the program, he may very well be making a bigger difference as a 'mentor'—an officer who trains other instructors. He estimates he has trained 300 instructors in the past two years, and not just from Alberta. DARE is making a difference all across Canada, with programs in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Maritimes. Much of that training was made possible with the $37,500 in funding from the Canadian Rural Partnership's Pilot Project Initiative. During the 1998–1999 school year, Canadian Rural Partnership funds helped train over 100 RCMP officers as DARE instructors. RCMP Sergeant Kevin Graham, of K Division headquarters in Edmonton, is credited as being one of those responsible for the growth of DARE. Graham says Alberta has the largest DARE program in the world, having reached 47,000 schoolchildren so far. Today, 80 per cent of the RCMP detachments in Alberta teach the DARE program, including those in rural areas, reserves and Metis communities. As the program gains momentum, it is anticipated that DARE will become more widespread from coast to coast. DARE Gets It Straight, First "Kids get exposed to so much more at such an early age. You have to get the straight facts out there. They get bombarded with these message that drugs are cool, and there's no counter-message to say why they're not cool," said Graham. "You're not going to see a change at home or on the streets, until you see a change in schools. Education and awareness are going to do that, not enforcement." And the Canadian Rural Partnership is helping to see that change come about. To learn more about DARE, visit the Web site at http://www.dare.com/.
Through innovation and initiative at the local level, communities can make a measurable impact on their own economy. The Government of Canada will continue to build on its commitment to invest in creating healthy communities, with the infrastructure, cultural and social amenities required to attract sustainable growth. This success story illustrates how vision and opportunity, supported by partnerships and local champions, can breathe new life into aging resources. Community-run Wharves Make Waves Of PossibilitiesOn summer afternoons, old steamer boat wharves along New Brunswick's lower St. John River will reverberate with the sound of people having fun. From 1816 to 1946, these ports-of-call welcomed travelers and cargo brought by river boats. Now, they are poised to become community-run aquatic adventure sites. It is an exciting transformation—one that is picking up steam in many communities. By breathing new life into the waterfront, surrounding towns and villages can hold on to an important part of their history while growing a new local industry—tourism. Only three years ago, these waterfront structures were the subject of bleak speculation. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) announced it was giving up ownership of the wharves and the province passed on taking them over. Now, thanks to an innovative partnership between the federal DFO and the St. John River Society, 12 of the wharves will be upgraded and maintained for community recreational and commercial use. In 1999, the project received $21,000 in funding through the Canadian Rural Partnership's Pilot Project Initiative, which encouraged rural communities to develop and test innovative solutions to local challenges. For New Brunswick's wharf communities, the challenge was to find a way to hold on to the past while embracing the future. Many of the aging structures had been the centre of the local economies for generations. "When the St. John River Society learned that DFO intended to begin divestiture of its system of 37 steamer boat wharves and that the provincial government did not intend to take them over, we stepped in," says Muriel MacKenzie, past president of the Society. Building A Dream The Society first made contact with communities to build interest in taking control of the wharves. Initially, some people were reluctant to take on what they saw as a huge undertaking. Charles Gaudet, Chief of Small Craft Harbours in DFO in the Maritimes region, says the Society was the perfect choice to discuss the idea with communities that were hesitant. The St. John River Society, established in 1991, is dedicated to the stewardship of the St. John River. The mandate of the incorporated not-for-profit organization is to celebrate and conserve life in the St. John River watershed. "The St. John River Society offered us the best alternative because they were willing to negotiate with individual communities," says Gaudet. "They were a good solid group to work with because they represented the interests of the communities." "A very real concern for us was to ensure the historic right of public access to the river for each of these communities," explains MacKenzie. "Demographic and tourism surveys suggest that as baby boomers retire, they will select to live in rural areas of Canada, particularly those that offer canoeing, kayaking and boating of all kinds. So there's a real potential for growth." The Lower St. John River Sustainable Development Coalition was struck in 1998 to make all stakeholders aware of issues relating to the wharf transfer. The Coalition chose the St. John River Society to manage the stewardship of the wharves on behalf of each community. Community committees were established, made up of members from local communities and members from the Society. After a year of working together to resolve concerns and build sustainable plans, the St. John River Society's partnership proposal was accepted by the Canadian Rural Partnership's Pilot Project Initiative in the summer of 1999. "The Society then went to every community to find out exactly what each one wanted to do with its wharf," says MacKenzie. And they did not overlook the commercial fishery—the traditional livelihood of these rural communities. Reg Robinson of Cambridge-Narrows makes his living fishing eels and gaspereau, exported to European and Asian markets. "I use five wharves on the St. John River," he says. "If I didn't have access to these wharves, I would be out of business." Vision Becomes Reality Of the 37 wharves, twelve communities agreed that the St. John River Society would become the "management option" for their river wharves. Ten wharves were transferred to local community groups. Another four are owned by, and will be managed by, municipalities. Two wharves went to private owners. Three had to be destroyed. The future of the remaining six is under consideration. Liz Watson, an advisory committee member of the local service district of Hampstead, has only praise for the St. John River Society. "I live near the Hampstead Wharf and am happy that public access to the wharf is now ensured," she says. The impact on individual communities is enormous, notes MacKenzie. "As a result of this initiative, each community will decide exactly how its wharf will be used, both now and in the future. This project can be a model for other rural community-based cooperative initiatives in other areas of Canada." "We learned the importance of starting at the grassroots, getting whole communities on board, and then networking with government," MacKenzie adds. "It's an important lesson that can be applied to any cooperative venture involving community and government." The St. John River Society received $375,000 from DFO to maintain the 12 wharves under its jurisdiction. "This money has been invested by the Society for the long-term and will be used as required," says MacKenzie. "Some wharves are in dire need of immediate repair and upgrading, while the condition of others is less acute." The Society is currently considering ways of raising additional funds, such as imposing user fees, so the wharf project will continue indefinitely. "The wharves are such an integral part of life on the lower St. John River, both currently and historically, that they must be maintained," says MacKenzie. "That's what this partnership allows us to do."
Words To Build On . . .What happens when you bring 500 rural and remote Canadians together for a weekend? They have plenty to talk about! And the more they share, the more they see how we are all in this together . . . We will make our future happen together—one strong nation, for all Canadians. That is what delegates decided on April 4–6, 2002 in Charlottetown, P.E.I., at the second National Rural Conference. The focus was community capacity building. The message was clear . . . people and resources working together to shape our success. The conference demonstrated how the Government of Canada is willing to listen to and wants to learn from the people who live in rural and remote Canada. How do we make our communities stronger? Start by building on what we know. Then share the benefits with others. No matter where conference delegates came from, they were all one in P.E.I., with the same goal—to improve the quality of life in their hometown. Delegates from the heartland, urban-adjacent, and northern and remote regions of Canada agreed that long-term sustainable development requires commitment—with the resources to back it up. Rural Canada may not have all the amenities of urban centres, but there is pride, integrity and a sense of community. There are solid values with leadership and vision. The National Rural Conference helped community leaders understand their role. They learned where to find the services to assist in community development, both economically and socially. Success does not come from a weekend conference. It can only plant the seeds. It takes time, effort and patience to grow a prosperous future. The conference looked at the challenges that must be overcome for rural Canada to continue to be the backbone of the country's resource-based economy. It shed light on our next generation of leaders, and how critical their involvement is for the future of rural Canada. In his opening message, the Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State for Rural Development, offered inspiration to challenge delegates to work together to find solutions through sharing. From spearheading discussion, to personal commitments expressed in his question and answer session, Mr. Mitchell's message was clear: "The Government of Canada is dedicated to working with you to ensure that this nation, with a strong rural Canada, has an opportunity to thrive as we go through the 21st century." Pre-conference Sessions Two pre-conference sessions—the Rural Youth Forum and the National Rural Network Forum—brought out ideas and issues to be the focus of the main event. Delegates explored the challenges and possibilities for a brighter tomorrow. Rural Youth Forum The Rural Youth Forum sparked inspiration to help shape our next generation. Young people want to be involved now to create their world for tomorrow. They want to learn to be better leaders. They want to be informed. They want to be heard. Youth need training and resources—especially broadband Internet—to have the opportunity to make a difference. Backed by the Government of Canada's commitment to build a stronger, sustainable rural and remote Canada, young people are our present and future success. National Rural Network Forum Helping communities to find a way to share their expertise, experience and knowledge was the focus of the National Rural Network Forum. The benefits are many—from building the ‘human capacity' of rural and remote Canada to contributing to government policy development. The network will link rural communities across Canada to support information and resource sharing. We are a country of diverse people who share common goals and take pride in sustaining a high quality of life, no matter where we live. Community-based and bottom-up, our National Rural Network will help to build the human capacity of rural and remote Canada. A steering committee is carrying on the development of the National Rural Network, with strong partnerships that will build an effective system. A follow-up forum is being planned. Building A Stronger Tomorrow The second National Rural Conference had only one goal—to keep rural and remote Canada connected and contributing to their own success. From the 45 workshops, breakout sessions and keynote speakers, came real-life success stories, innovative ideas and feasible solutions, shared by local leaders from all parts of Canada. Delegates discussed the need for leadership development, as there is a growing gap in many rural and remote areas in the population from which to draw new leaders. Possible solutions included: promoting the values and strengths of rural Canada; inviting new people who would be open to change and accept new ideas; supporting community ‘champions'; and keeping youth on the team. The challenge of skills development for the new economy was also addressed. A lack of resources has made it difficult for rural and remote Canadians to keep pace in the ‘new' knowledge-based economy. Delegates discussed solutions, such as: Government of Canada support through programs and publications to foster local initiatives to build long-term local resources; enhancing long-distance learning and courses at community colleges and local school boards; and local mentors and community-based organizations. Other issues raised during the conference included: improving co-ordination between provincial and territorial governments for better program and service delivery; investing in human capital and human innovation, as well as technology; tailoring rural development for the unique realities of northern and remote communities; building partnerships between adults and youth; increasing access to heath care and education; and reflecting rural Canada in Canada's immigration policy. Rural Action Plan Report Card By listening and responding to the issues and concerns of rural and remote Canadians, the Government of Canada has laid the groundwork for a coordinated federal focus on these priorities. At the first ever National Rural Conference, the Government of Canada made a commitment to put rural and remote Canadian's priorities into action—the Rural Action Plan. Based on the input from conference participants, the Rural Action Plan outlined the key priorities and next steps to bring about government action in rural and remote Canada. The Rural Action Plan Report Card (see Appendix 1)—which was released at the second National Rural Conference—demonstrates the practical ways the Government of Canada's commitment has been and is being carried out. It outlines the progress that has been made on the next steps identified in the Rural Action Plan, with examples of key initiatives and results. With these and many other initiatives, the Government of Canada, through the Canadian Rural Partnership, is reaching out to help rural and remote Canadians create a higher quality of life.
How do we make the 21st century all it can be? By working together to create sustainable, community-driven solutions. Supporting that evolution is the commitment of the Canadian Rural Partnership. Policy development, coordination, information sharing and resource support have brought about dramatic results by engaging citizens to be responsible ‘champions' of community growth. By helping to build and sustain strategic partnerships, the Government of Canada maintains a leading-edge position in the future of our nation. Through the National Rural Policy Framework, the Government of Canada will work collaboratively with provincial and territorial governments to ensure the long-term sustainability of rural and remote communities. The development and implementation of this framework will also lead to an enhanced integrated approach to rural issues across federal departments and agencies. The Rural Secretariat is committed to a results-oriented approach to reporting based on the needs of rural citizens, which includes a clear vision and understanding of the short and long-term effects of programs on rural development. This results-based management and accountability framework and risk-based audit framework will enable the Rural Secretariat to assess its results and risks, adjust operations and continue to improve client service while maintaining a citizen focus. The evidence-based information will help federal, provincial and territorial governments make sound decisions on policy and program design and delivery, as well as provide measurable results to Parliamentarians and Canadians. Where Do We Go From Here?People working together—with innovation and grassroots resourcefulness—are creating solutions to build a sustainable future. The Government of Canada is committed to providing rural and remote Canadians with the tools and resources. Here are some other ways the Government of Canada is working toward this goal:
Together, we can make it happen. With young people actively involved, our opportunities to enhance the quality of life in rural and remote Canada will remain boundless. The Canadian Rural Partnership continues to be the focal point for innovation and discovery that is more responsive to the needs of rural Canadians. The Government of Canada is listening, sharing and working together to shape our future success. "Be the catalyst for action in your rural community" –
Membership List Of The Canadian Rural Partnership (Interdepartmental Working Group) Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Canada Customs and Revenue Agency Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Canada Post Corporation Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency Canadian Heritage Canadian Tourism Commission Citizenship and Immigration Canada Department of Finance Canada Department of Justice Canada Department of National Defence Environment Canada Farm Credit Canada Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor) Fisheries and Oceans Canada Health Canada Human Resources Development Canada Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Industry Canada Natural Resources Canada Privy Council Office Public Works and Government Services Canada Royal Canadian Mounted Police Statistics Canada Transport Canada Treasury Board Secretariat Western Economic Diversification Canada
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