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Backgrounder – Budget 2005 and Expenditure Review Committee (ERC) Initiatives

CFIA's ERC Initiatives

February 23, 2005 - In December 2003, the Prime Minister announced the establishment of the Expenditure Review Committee as part of a series of initiatives designed to strengthen the government's financial management and accountability. The goal is to ensure the government spends smarter; meaning using taxpayer's dollars efficiently, managing programs effectively and ensuring government priorities reflect Canadian priorities.

The Expenditure Review Process follows three key principles: value for money, efficiency, and balance in its impact on regions and government operations.

The first phase of this process was a thorough review of existing programs. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) completed its internal review and has identified initiatives where cost savings can be realized.

Identified areas for savings include:

• organizational and overhead efficiencies;
• consolidating some office space and specific laboratory functions;
• changes in administrative management ; and
• modernizing and streamlining inspection programs.

Get more information on these initiatives.

The identified cost savings will not compromise the Agency’s ability to promote food safety and protect animal and plant health. Also, services to Canadians and stakeholders will not be adversely affected. The cost savings identified are about being more efficient in organization and in management. And some of these initiatives are about doing what the CFIA does now, but doing it differently – and better.

These initiatives are forward looking, with the cost savings being realized in the next three to five years. Any changes will be gradual, well-thought out and communicated long before they take place.

• Budget 2005