Travel and Hospitality Expenses: International Trade

On December 12, 2003, the Prime Minister announced a new policy on the mandatory publication of the travel and hospitality expenses for selected government officials.

This web site provides information on the travel and hospitality expenses incurred, on a quarterly basis, within International Trade Canada (ITCan) by the Minister, Minister of State, their exempt staff, Parliamentary Secretary, as well as by senior employees at the Deputy Minister, Associate Deputy Minister and Assistant Deputy Minister levels.

The rules and principles governing travel are outlined in the Guidelines for Ministers' Offices, the Treasury Board's Travel Directive, and the Special Travel Authorities.

The Government of Canada extends hospitality in accordance with the rules and principles outlined in the Guidelines for Minister Offices, the Treasury Board's Hospitality Policy, and in accordance with Chapter 9 of the Manual of Protocol, on Hospitality Outside of Canada. This chapter ensures coordination and cost-effectiveness of official hospitality abroad and a consistent interpretation of the relevant Treasury Board directives by departments and agencies with program personnel on foreign assignment.

Official hospitality outside Canada serves to strengthen and develop bilateral relations with other countries and promote Canadian interests abroad. Customs relating to the form and offering of hospitality vary from country to country. The cost of extending hospitality can vary substantially, depending on the local customs and costs in each country. Foreign Affairs Canada regularly performs audits of missions, including activities related to the extension of hospitality and travel, and the results are posted on its website.

The information on this Web site will be updated every three months, beginning on March 31, 2004. Amounts include all applicable taxes.

Please note as well that information that would normally be withheld under the Access to Information Act or the Privacy Act does not appear on this web site.