Question Period Note: Public Accounts of Canada Report 2020-21

Public Accounts of Canada Report 2020-21

My department is committed to the prudent management and use of taxpayer dollars.

In keeping with this, we diligently address losses to property, claims, and other cases with the appropriate resolution processes.

We have robust and effective internal controls in place. The integrity of our financial systems is sound and in compliance with the Government of Canada’s policies.

Damages, Losses and Claims
The Department operates in some of the harshest conditions; as a result, damage to vehicles, accidents at sea, losses, and damages to equipment can occur.

The Department ensures that any accidental destruction or damage to its properties is quickly evaluated and repaired to minimize the impact on its services to Canadians.

Damages to Vessel CCGS Corporal McLaren
In November 2018, the CCGS Corporal McLaren was vandalised and sabotaged while it was in a Nova Scotia dockyard awaiting a refit.

This is an example of a case involving losses of public property due to an offence or other illegal act; it amounts to $14 million. The matter is still under investigation.

• The Public Accounts of Canada’s annual report is prepared by the Receiver General for the Government of Canada, as required under section 64 of the Financial Administration Act. The report covers the financial transactions of the Government during the previous fiscal year. Each federal department and agency is responsible for reconciling its accounts and for maintaining detailed records of their financial transactions. It is anticipated that the Public Accounts of Canada 2020-21 report will be tabled in Parliament in November.
• Most material cases were caused by accidental destruction or damage to buildings and other real property.
• Collision between a barge and a wharf at St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador in December 2020: $636,059
• Damage to a wharf at Port Saunders, Newfoundland and Labrador due to vessel fire in September 2020: $100,185

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