On this page
- Airports Capital Assistance Program
- Contributions to Support the Recovery of Canada's Airport System
- Ferry Services Contribution Program
- Grant to the Province of British Columbia in Respect of the Provision of Ferry and Coastal Freight and Passenger Services
- Incentives for Zero-emission Vehicles Program
- Major Rehabilitation Work on the Victoria Bridge
- National Trade Corridors Fund
- Northumberland Strait Crossing Subsidy Payment under the Northumberland Strait Crossing Act (S.C., 1993, c. 43)
- Program to Protect Canada's Coastlines and Waterways
- Rail Safety Improvement Program
- Remote Passenger Rail Program
- Road Safety Transfer Payment Program
Airports Capital Assistance Program
Start date: April 1, 1995
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2020-21
Link to departmental result(s): Transportation corridors get products reliably to market
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) assists eligible applicants in financing safety-related capital projects to ensure the continued safety of the Canadian travelling public. The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: Eligible airports met the safety standards required to remain operational
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program was last evaluated in 2022-23. The evaluation found that there is an ongoing need for safety improvements at small Canadian airports and the ACAP helps to address this need. The demand for ACAP funding has remained strong over the seven years covered by the evaluation with the program consistently oversubscribed and eligible airports requesting an increase in funding for the program.
ACAP has contributed to enhancing safety at eligible airports through the provision of funding for safety-related infrastructure projects and mobile equipment. The vast majority of ACAP funding was dedicated to safety-related airside projects, like rehabilitating runways. In terms of mobile equipment, and especially for snow removal equipment like sweepers, the standard 20-year lifecycle did not work equally well across the country given Canada's diverse climatic regions. This situation created funding pressures for airports that use their equipment frequently and were not able to meet the 20-year benchmark. Transport Canada officials are reviewing benchmarks used in other jurisdictions (e.g., the United States) and awaiting the submission of a study of the Canadian market being produced by industry. Revisions to the benchmark will be considered once these reviews are complete.
Over the years examined, ACAP was delivered in an efficient manner, especially following the centralization of the program. ACAP is currently transitioning to the Surface Infrastructure System (SIS). There is a risk that during the transition, program efficiency relating to processing claims will be negatively impacted. Change management strategies are being implemented to offset these risks. The program is scheduled for an evaluation in 2027-28.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Program details are posted on the Program website.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 37,040,655 | 107,243,487 | 130,122,700 | 132,362,700 | 120,767,029 | (9,355,671) |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 37,040,655 | 107,243,487 | 130,122,700 | 132,362,700 | 120,767,029 | (9,355,671) |
Explanation of variances
Delayed completion of a few projects due to supply chain issues and adverse weather.
Contributions to Support the Recovery of Canada's Airport System
Start date: May 11, 2021
End date: March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22
Link to departmental result(s): An efficient transportation system
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Highway and Other Transportation Infrastructure Support
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The objectives of this program are to provide targeted support related to Canada's network of airports to prevent reduced connectivity, diminished competition, canceled or deferred infrastructure projects, mitigate price increases for air travelers, and ensure that Canada's air transportation system remains financially viable, operational, safe, and secure. The program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: Funding amounting to $570.7 million has been committed to 53 critical infrastructure projects at 19 airports across Canada, including 9 projects having a significant focus on biosecurity. During 2022-23, all contribution agreements (CAs) were finalized under the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program (ACIP), totaling 39 CAs. Transport Canada continues to monitor the funding flow to support critical infrastructure projects, and COVID-19 testing and screening infrastructure at airports. To date, 9 projects have been completed under ACIP.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program has never been evaluated. It is scheduled for evaluation in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Monitoring committee meetings and targeted engagements with applicants continued to take place during 2022-23 to oversee the advancement of projects.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 0 | 26,260,735 | 269,813,900 | 269,813,900 | 263,217,326 | (6,596,574) |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 0 | 26,260,735 | 269,813,900 | 269,813,900 | 263,217,326 | (6,596,574) |
Explanation of variances
In 2022-23, disruptions in the air sector project deliverables continue to be affected by global supply chain issues. As a result of the delays in contracting, and price rise of material and acquisitions, airports have requested to reallocate funding to subsequent fiscal years.
Ferry Services Contribution Program
Start date: 1941
End date: March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23
Link to departmental result(s): Transport Canada manages its assets effectively
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Ferry Services Contribution Program provides financial assistance to maintain three inter-provincial ferry services in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec. More specifically, the contributions are for the following services:
- Between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia operated by Northumberland Ferries Ltd;
- Between Cap-aux-Meules, Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec and Souris, Prince Edward Island operated by CTMA Traversier Ltée; and
- Between Saint John, New Brunswick and Digby, Nova Scotia operated by Bay Ferries Ltd.
The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: Safe, efficient, and reliable ferry services were offered between Cap-aux-Meules, Îles de la Madeleine and Souris, Prince Edward Island; Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick and Digby, Nova Scotia.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program was last evaluated in 2019-20. It is scheduled for an upcoming evaluation in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23:
- Reviewed and negotiated the performance objectives and budget required to deliver the ferry services as per the terms of the agreements;
- Informed recipients of service standards and reporting requirements based on each recipient's risk profile;
- Maintained an ongoing dialogue with recipients to assess change and progress via monthly conference calls;
- Followed-up with recipients as required on project activities, funding requirements, and reporting requirements; and
- Notified recipients of the requirement to conduct audits and inform Transport Canada of the audit findings.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 48,537,160 | 45,940,083 | 35,587,824 | 52,864,399 | 52,864,399 | 17,276,575 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 48,537,160 | 45,940,083 | 35,587,824 | 52,864,399 | 52,864,399 | 17,276,575 |
Explanation of variances
Planned expenditures are a function of projected revenues and operating expenses (including vessel maintenance), which cannot be predicted with absolute certainty. Actual expenditures in 2022-23 were high than planned due to the increased cost of fuel, insurance and labour, and the cost to charter of the MV Saaremaa for the Wood Islands – Caribou route.
Grant to the Province of British Columbia in Respect of the Provision of Ferry and Coastal Freight and Passenger Services
Start date: April 18, 1977
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Grant
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2005-06
Link to departmental result(s): Transportation corridors get products reliably to market
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: Transport Canada provides an annual grant to the Province of British Columbia to support coastal ferry services. The program fulfills the federal government's legal obligations as set out in the agreement between the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia signed in 1977 whereby the province would assume the sole responsibility for coastal ferry services in return for an ongoing indexed grant from Canada. The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: The grant supported transportation links to the national surface transportation system from various regions and isolated areas of British Columbia.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This program was last evaluated in 2016-17. An evaluation of this program is expected to be completed in 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: We engage the province to discuss and confirm the annual payment.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 32,028,098 | 32,182,708 | 32,658,432 | 33,344,267 | 33,344,267 | 685,835 |
| Total contributions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 32,028,098 | 32,182,708 | 32,658,432 | 33,344,267 | 33,344,267 | 685,835 |
Explanation of variances
The grant is indexed annually to the rate of inflation for the City of Vancouver. Therefore, the variance is a result of the fluctuation in the rate of inflation between the forecast and actual payment required for 2022-23.
Incentives for Zero-emission Vehicles Program
Start date: May 1, 2019
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Grant
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23
Link to departmental result(s): Harmful air emissions from transportation in Canada are reduced
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Climate Change and Clean Air
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles Program (iZEV) is an initiative under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. It provides Canadians and Canadian businesses with point-of-sale incentives eligible for new light-duty zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) leased or purchased. The iZEV Program's objectives are to:
- Make it more affordable for Canadians to adopt this clean technology;
- Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector; and
- Increase the adoption of these vehicles in support of meeting ZEV sales targets.
The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: The number of Canadians and Canadian businesses adopting ZEVs continues to increase. In calendar year 2022, 8.9% of new light-duty vehicle sales in Canada were zero-emission vehicles. This represents an increase from the 5.6% in 2021 and 3.8% market share achieved in 2020.
As of March 31st, 2023, over 204,000 claims to subsidize ZEVs have been submitted to Transport Canada for a total of $898.7M. In fiscal year 2022-23 alone, the iZEV Program received more than 65 000 claims, totaling $289M.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: The audit of this program was completed in June 2022. Overall, the audit found that the processes are sound and effectively manage the risks to successful implementation and delivery of the iZEV Program. Only one opportunity to strengthen the program was identified, which was to update two specific documents in order to document the effective processes and practices in place.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This program has never been evaluated. It is scheduled for an upcoming evaluation in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Officials responsible for this transfer payment program consult with recipients through:
- the online iZEV claim application for dealerships, which in most cases is to request further information and/or a missing document for a claim submitted;
- the Program's generic email address to answer more general questions from the public and dealerships;
- Annual online feedback questionnaires targeted at iZEV recipients (both individuals and businesses/organizations and dealerships. These questionnaires provide feedback on the Program's design, experiences with the Program and information to inform future programs and policies related to zero-emission vehicles;
- Transport Canada participated in two auto shows in FY 2022-23. A feedback questionnaire was available for participants to complete. Transport Canada was seeking feedback on iZEV Program interest and awareness;
- Service Canada assists TC with the delivery of general program information through 1-800 O-Canada a single point of contact for Canadians to access quick, up-to-date government information over the phone. It acts as the first point of contact for general information on the iZEV Program; and
- A separate direct phone line to the iZEV Program was put in place to allow dealerships to contact Transport Canada regarding any questions with their requests and other inquiries related to the iZEV Program.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 159,101,612 | 264,722,488 | 92,919,522 | 413,159,122 | 269,784,720 | 176,865,198 |
| Total contributions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 159,101,612 | 264,722,488 | 92,919,522 | 413,159,122 | 269,784,720 | 176,865,198 |
Explanation of variances
The variance is attributed to the limited availability of vehicles on the market, the increased interest rates and the inflation rate that impacts the willingness of Canadians to buy/lease a new vehicle. There is no need for a mitigation plan as, in fiscal year 2023-24, a shift in the car industry has already been demonstrated; this shift being translated in a significant increase in the number of incentive requests received by Transport Canada.
Major Rehabilitation Work on the Victoria Bridge
Start date: November 26, 2020
End date: March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2020-21
Link to departmental result(s): Transport Canada manages its assets effectively
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: This program provides funding to support major rehabilitation work on the Victoria Bridge related to the roadway, including the repair of structural elements and the improvement of its approaches and signalization. These activities will ensure the bridge remains safe and that commuters in the Montreal region can access its roadway. The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: The work carried out allowed the bridge to remain open to road traffic and maintain it in good condition to ensure public safety and the longevity of the bridge.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program has never been evaluated. It was considered as part of the 2023-24 Departmental Evaluation Plan.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Transport Canada continued to support and monitor progress with the undertaking of the bridge's rehabilitation work.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 0 | 1,903,051 | 5,467,850 | 8,321,345 | 8,321,344 | 2,853,494 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 0 | 1,903,051 | 5,467,850 | 8,321,345 | 8,321,344 | 2,853,494 |
Explanation of variances
The variance is due to the fact that the recipient was able to carry out a portion of the work ahead of the initial project schedule.
National Trade Corridors Fund
Start date: June 22, 2017
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23
Link to departmental result(s): Transportation corridors get products reliably to markets
Link to the department's Program Inventory: National Trade Corridors
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) provides funding to contribute to the competitiveness and productivity of Canada and its transportation system through investments that:
- Support the flow of goods and people by reducing bottlenecks and addressing capacity issues;
- Help the transportation system withstand the effects of climate change and to ensure it is able to support new technologies and innovation;
- Address the unique transportation needs in Canada's North to improve safety and facilitate economic and social development; and
- Build on investments made by a variety of public and private sector partners.
The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: In 2022-23, Transport Canada (TC) completed project approvals for the Continuous and the Relieving Supply Chain Congestion at Canadian Ports calls for proposals. Funding decisions were also announced under the Increasing the Fluidity of Canada's Supply Chains call for proposals and the department launched the Advancing Supply Chain Digitalization call for proposals.
The Continuous call for proposals closed on December 9, 2021. As of March 31, 2023, a total of $1.4B has been committed to 63 projects under this call, leveraging over $3B in investments.
The Relieving Supply Chain Congestion at Canadian Ports call for proposals was launched on January 31, 2022, and subsequently closed on February 25, 2022. The Minister of Transport approved nine projects committing $27.7M in NTCF funding and leveraging $97.9M in total investments from all project partners.
The Increasing the Fluidity of Canada's Supply Chains call for proposals closed on June 30, 2022. To date, the Minister of Transport approved 45 projects committing $831.4M in NTCF funding and leveraging nearly $2.2B in total investments from all project partners.
Finally, TC launched the Advancing Supply Chain Digitalization call for proposals, which closed on April 11, 2023. Assessments of these proposals are ongoing. Funding decisions for this call are anticipated in Summer 2023.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: As of March 31, 2023, the audit of the program was underway. The final report will be presented at the June 2023 Departmental Audit Committee meeting.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program has never been evaluated. It is scheduled for an upcoming evaluation in 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: TC continued to engage with stakeholders across Canada on transportation priorities and potential infrastructure projects. TC provided feedback on project proposals received from applicants, evaluated applications against NTCF criteria and continued to support recipients in the implementation of their projects.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 164,585,882 | 232,955,956 | 1,101,555,469 | 1,070,786,693 | 219,257,054 | (882,298,415) |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 164,585,882 | 232,955,956 | 1,101,555,469 | 1,070,786,693 | 219,257,054 | (882,298,415) |
Explanation of variances
Actual spending was lower than planned spending because of implementation delays associated with pandemic related issues, inflationary pressures, and supply chain constraints. Surplus funding is being requested to be reprofiled into future years to match the projected project funding requirements.
Northumberland Strait Crossing Subsidy Payment under the Northumberland Strait Crossing Act (S.C., 1993, c. 43)
Start date: May 31, 1997
End date: April 1, 2032
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Northumberland Strait Crossing Subsidy Payment under the Northumberland Strait Crossing Act (S.C., 1993, c. 43)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: Not applicable
The terms and conditions have not been reviewed since the commencement of the Program, as there is a contractual agreement between the Government of Canada and Strait Crossing Development Inc.
Link to departmental result(s):
- Transportation corridors get products reliably to market; and
- Transport Canada manages its assets effectively
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation and Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Northumberland Strait Crossing subsidy payments are made to the bridge operator to honor a constitutional obligation to provide a transportation link between Prince Edward Island and the mainland.
The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: In 2022-23, the following was achieved:
- Pursuant to the Northumberland Strait Crossing Project Subsidy Agreement, funding assistance in the amount of $72.9M was made to the Bridge Operator for the 2021-22 fiscal year; and
- Funding allowed for continuous and efficient year-round transportation of people and goods between Prince Edward Island and the mainland, to support an efficient, integrated, and accessible transportation system.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: The program has never been evaluated given the exclusion of statutory payments from evaluation coverage requirement, as per the Policy on Results.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Not applicable
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 68,603,289 | 69,305,533 | 71,100,485 | 72,865,776 | 72,865,776 | 1,765,291 |
| Total program | 68,603,289 | 69,305,533 | 71,100,485 | 72,865,776 | 72,865,776 | 1,765,291 |
Explanation of variances
Actual spending in 2022-23 was more than planned, due to a difference between the forecasted inflation rate used when the planned spending was calculated and the actual inflation rate when the subsidy was paid.
Program to Protect Canada's Coastlines and Waterways
Start date: April 1, 2017
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23
Link to departmental result(s): Canada's oceans and marine environments are protected from marine shipping impacts
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Protecting Oceans and Waterways
Indigenous Relations and Navigation Protection
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The objectives of the Program to Protect Canada's Coastlines and Waterways (PPCCW), are to strengthen the safety of Canada's marine transportation system and protect Canada's coastlines and waterways. This aligns with our department's core responsibility of providing Canada with a green and efficient marine transportation system. More specifically, the PPCCW aims to:
- Deliver the grant and contribution programming under the Oceans Protection Plan (OPP);
- Protect Canada's coasts and waterways from hazards (e.g., by removing wrecked and abandoned boats);
- Enhance maritime situational awareness for boaters in real-time within higher-risk coastal waterways near Indigenous communities;
- Engage with Indigenous and other coastal communities to share marine-related local knowledge and best practices to aid in the development of future policies and regulations;
- Increase the number of Canadians in the marine sector, particularly women, Northerners, Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples; and
- Support:
- Indigenous reconciliation efforts;
- Research into developing recyclable boats;
- Safer marine operations, and equipment and infrastructure development in the North and, protect northern communities from marine pollution incidents; and
- Education, awareness and outreach projects.
The Program does not have repayable contributions
Results achieved: In 2022-23, for the:
- Marine Training Program (MTP), the MTP provides federal funding to expand traditional learning, e-learning, and blended learning programs at Canada's marine training schools and raise public awareness of, and access to, training and job opportunities for underrepresented groups. Of note for 2022-23:
- In-person and hands-on training resumed for all projects;
- We continued to provide funding to three recipients totaling over $6.8 M; and
- 513 students completed various marine training courses and more than 360 graduated;
- Indigenous and Local Communities Engagement and Partnership Program, which provides funding for capacity building among Indigenous and local communities/entities as they contribute their knowledge towards OPP initiatives, we provided:
- Over $1.2 M in funding for 13 out of the original 21 projects with Indigenous groups across the country for long-term engagement with Transport Canada on Oceans Protection Plan measures; and
- Continued funding (over $2 M) to eleven Northern British Columbia Indigenous coastal communities under the Reconciliation Framework Agreement that promote a more coordinated and efficient approach to the governance, management and protection of oceans along the Pacific North Coast of British Columbia, including marine ecosystems, marine resources and marine use activities;
- Program to Enhance Maritime Situational Awareness (PEMSA), we provided over $1.8 M in funding for consultation projects. Several of these projects are Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion accommodation measures in relation to strengthening the Enhanced Maritime Situational Awareness (EMSA) system. The system helps Indigenous partners, coastal communities and stakeholders make evidence-based decisions by promoting collaboration and providing near real-time information about the marine environment. Local data available through the EMSA system includes vessel traffic, weather, hydrography, sensitive ecological areas and local historical knowledge of the waterways. In Budget 2022, as part of the renewal of the Oceans Protection Plan (OPP), the EMSA system and PEMSA contribution programs are transitioning from being a pilot project under the first phase of the OPP to a permanently funded marine safety program;
- High Arctic Community Harbour Infrastructure Program, which is a contribution program that is linked to a Government of Canada commitment to the Government of Nunavut (GN) and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) related to the establishment of the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and the associated Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement, we:
- Supported community engagement efforts in Grise Fiord and Resolute Bay and facilitated discussions with the GN and the QIA to complete an Infrastructure and Investment Plan to inform the development of the community harbours; and
- Signed a funding agreement with the Government of Nunavut for the design and construction of community harbours in these two High Arctic communities
- Safety Equipment and Basic Marine Infrastructure in Northern Communities Initiative, which provides funding to improve the safety of sealift and resupply operations in remote northern communities, continued to work with Northern Recipients to implement the 16 current approved projects representing $89.1 million in funding. Implementation of many projects were slowed due to impact of COVID-19 and supply chain disruptions in the North. Additional funding was allocated under Budget 2022 and a third call for proposals was launched to fund additional projects; and
- Abandoned Boats Program (ABP), we completed 9 removal projects, to remove and dispose of boats that presented hazards to navigation and the marine environment in waters across the country. Over 350 assessment and removal projects have been funded since the inception of the Program.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: The results of this evaluation were finalized in 2022-23. The evaluation found evidence that the initiative successfully met key needs across several stakeholders. However, it lacked an overarching narrative and several stakeholders reported dissatisfaction and issues with engagement. Several recommendations were made to address coordination and collaboration across stakeholders and to create a comprehensive results chain and narrative for the renewal of the initiative.
Minor changes made to the report after being presented to Transport Canada's Executive Management Committee will require Deputy Minister approval prior to publication in 2023-24.
The next evaluation of this program is scheduled for 2026-27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Officials responsible for these transfer payment programs consult with applicants and recipients regarding the funding of PPCCW grant and contribution programs through:
- Information sessions;
- Various meetings and committees; and
- Progress/yearly reports.
Applicants and recipients also have access to Program email inboxes and Project Advisors are in place to ensure project implementation, monitoring and progress reporting functions are available.
Consultations are also provided by the Oceans Protection Plan team within Transport Canada for subject matter expert-related information.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 1,757,375 | 1,430,874 | 0 | 530,100 | 517,964 | 517,964 |
| Total contributions | 16,222,773 | 20,772,020 | 79,102,006 | 85,959,594 | 18,754,803 | (60,347,203) |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 17,980,148 | 22,202,894 | 79,102,006 | 86,489,694 | 19,272,767 | (59,829,239) |
Explanation of variances
The 2022-23 surplus is largely attributable to:
- The time required to reinitiate OPP operations after receiving confirmation of the renewal of the Plan in Budget 2022; and
- Actual spending was lower than planned spending because of implementation delays associated with pandemic related issues, inflationary pressures, and supply chain constraints.
We intend on seeking approval to reprofile (i.e., move) the majority of these surplus funds to future fiscal years through the 2024-25 Annual Reference Level Update exercise.
Rail Safety Improvement Program
Start date: April 1, 2016
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2016–17
Link to departmental result(s): A safe transportation system
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Rail Safety Improvement Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program”: The Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP) provides federal funding in the form of grants or contributions to help improve rail safety, contribute to increasing safety at grade crossings and along rail lines, address climate change resilience through the rehabilitation, mitigation, and/or prevention of the impacts of climate change/extreme weather along rail lines and rail property, and increase public confidence in Canada's rail transportation system.
RSIP includes the Rail Climate Change Adaptation Program (R-CCAP) that was created to help Canada's rail sector research, develop, and implement innovative technologies, tools, and approaches to address risks due to climate change and extreme weather.
The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: In 2022-23, Transport Canada (TC) delivered $18.9M in RSIP projects to improve rail safety and reduce injuries and fatalities related to rail transportation.
In the past year, TC ran three RSIP intakes for federal funding. The Infrastructure, Technology and Research (ITR) component closed on August 1, 2022, and the Climate Change and Adaptation to Extreme Weather Infrastructure component closed on January 6, 2023. The Minister of Transport's decision on approved projects for these two intakes is expected in 2023-24.
The R-CCAP was the third RSIP intake, which closed on September 28, 2022. This component of RSIP was created to help Canada's rail sector research, develop, and implement innovative technologies, tools, and approaches to address these risks. On March 2, 2023, the Minister of Transport announced up to $5.4 million to fund 20 projects in fiscal years 2022-23 to 2023-24.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This program was last evaluated in 2020-21. The program's next evaluation is planned for 2025-26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Transport Canada engaged with recipients as required on project activities, funding requirements, and reporting requirements.
These include:
- Quarterly meetings/conference calls with key recipients;
- Regular Canada-wide webinars engaging key stakeholders, e.g., provinces, municipalities, for and not-for profit organizations; and
- Community outreach through electronic communications, social media, and targeted presentations.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending | 2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 212,000 | 68,000 | 800,000 | 800,000 | 155,000 | (645,000) |
| Total contributions | 14,262,877 | 13,351,623 | 20,500,000 | 31,500,000 | 18,767,964 | (1,732,036) |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 14,474,877 | 13,419,623 | 21,300,000 | 32,300,000 | 18,922,964 | (2,377,036) |
Explanation of variances
Actual spending was lower than planned spending because of implementation delays associated with project dependencies on work conducted by third parties, and delays in availability and/or delivery of supplies. Some projects have also seen delays as inflationary pressures have caused overall project costs to increase beyond the thresholds established at the time of project approvals, resulting in the requirement for proponents to seek additional funding sources. Surplus funding is being requested to be reprofiled into future years to match the project commitments that are being deferred into future years.
Remote Passenger Rail Program
Start date: 2005
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22
Link to departmental result(s): An efficient transportation system
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Transportation Infrastructure Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: This program provides funding to ensure that safe, reliable, viable and sustainable passenger rail services are provided to certain areas of the country where these services are the only means of surface transportation for remote communities. Funding for both operating and capital projects is provided. The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: The program's recipients maintained a minimum of 52 trips per year in 2022-23.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program was last evaluated in 2018-19. It is scheduled for upcoming evaluation in 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Transport Canada continued to support recipients in the implementation of their projects.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 9,386,614 | 23,469,137 | 14,150,000 | 36,753,400 | 17,190,439 | 3,040,439 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 9,386,614 | 23,469,137 | 14,150,000 | 36,753,400 | 17,190,439 | 3,040,439 |
Explanation of variances
Actual spending exceeded planned spending in 2022-23 due to a new project that was approved for funding under the program early in the fiscal year.
Road Safety Transfer Payment Program
Start date: 1987
End date: Ongoing
Type of transfer payment: Contribution
Type of appropriation: Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20
Link to departmental result(s): A Safe Transportation System
Link to the department's Program Inventory: Motor Vehicle Safety Oversight Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The objective of the Program is to establish nationally consistent road use frameworks, standards, policies, programs, and outreach activities to reduce collisions, injuries, and fatalities on the road, while also encouraging the safe and effective use of innovative technologies, encouraging harmonization, and economic growth. The Program does not have repayable contributions.
Results achieved: In 2022-23, this program:
- Provided federal funding to the Provinces, Territories, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, and to various non-governmental organizations for road safety projects;
- Disbursed $4.4M to support the enforcement of safety standards and frameworks for extra-provincial commercial motor carriers (heavy trucks and buses); and the delivery of national uniform training for commercial motor vehicle drivers and inspectors; and
- Disbursed $15.57M to support the delivery of projects across Canada tackling persistent road safety challenges related to impaired and distracted driving, online training for novice commercial drivers, technology enhancement of inspection stations and vulnerable road users.
Findings of audits completed in 2022-23: There is no audit work planned for this transfer payment program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-23: This Program was last evaluated in 2015-16. It is scheduled for upcoming evaluation in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23: Engagement initiatives included:
- Followed up with recipients as required on project activities, funding requirements, and reporting requirements.
Financial information (dollars)
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 Actual spending |
2021–22 Actual spending |
2022–23 Planned spending |
2022–23 Total authorities available for use |
2022–23 |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 6,566,546 | 18,109,467 | 10,569,431 | 22,569,431 | 19,981,342 | 9,411,911 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 6,566,546 | 18,109,467 | 10,569,431 | 22,569,431 | 19,981,342 | 9,411,911 |
Explanation of variances
The variance between actual spending and planned spending is the result of signing the majority of third call contribution agreements in the last half of fiscal year 2021-22, which delayed the start of many projects and required federal funding to be moved into fiscal year 2022-23. While COVID-19 severely impacted recipients and projects over the last three years, the majority of Enhanced Road Safety Transfer Payment Program projects have been completed. Only three remain to be completed in fiscal year 2023-24.