Communications

In today's complex society, the need to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences is not just desirable, it is essential. The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces (DND/CF) make a fundamental contribution to the safety and security of Canadians, and it is vital that Canadians see Canadian Forces members at work for them and understand how the DND/CF contributes to their well being.

The Department has established an on-line presence on the Internet and is moving forward to improve DND/CF communication capabilities that will enhance understanding of the Defence program and CF missions. Under the umbrella of National Defence On-Line (NDOL), additional work is being funded to ensure that plans and processes are in place to ensure that the information provided is up-to-date and easily accessible. Key to the success of NDOL is consolidating and improving access to pertinent information for the Canadian public and for Canadian Forces Regular and Reserve members.

The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces (DND/CF) national web site is called the Defence Network (D-Net). This network can be accessed from www.forces.ca. D-Net provides information on defence policy and programs, operations and activities with other government departments (OGD), NATO partners, and businesses. The web site profiles CF operations, provides information about the people who conduct those operations, and highlights the contributions of the men and women of National Defence who support the Defence mission of the Canadian Forces. Information on the activities of the Navy, Army, Air Force and Reserves can be accessed directly from the national site.

The D-Net communicates information about many subject areas, which include:

• Canadian Defence policy;
• Defence mission and values;
• Departmental news releases and backgrounders;
• Daily updates on what's happening in DND and the CF;
• Selected speeches by senior departmental officials;
• Ministerial activities;
• Activities of the Standing Committee on National Defence and Veterans Affairs;
• Security and Defence Forum;
• Canada's participation in UN and NATO missions and operations abroad;
• Late-breaking news on important activities, meetings, and events;
• Background on current issues and upcoming events; and
• Canada - U.S. Defence Relations (available December 2001).

The D-Net also provides information about how to submit both Access To Information and Privacy requests; both the Access to Information Request form and the Personal Information Request form are available for downloading. A complete list of all access-to-information requests is updated every month.

For more information contact the National Defence On-Line Program Manager