Fisheries and Oceans Canada
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
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Mandate, Vision, Mission and Values
Canada's fisheries and oceans have played and continue to play an important historic, economic, and cultural role in Canada's development and growth as a nation. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has the lead federal role in managing Canada's fisheries and safeguarding its waters.
The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG), a Special Operating Agency within DFO, is responsible for services and programs that contribute to the safety, security, and accessibility of Canada's waterways. CCG supports other government organizations by providing a civilian fleet and a broadly distributed shore-based infrastructure.
The Department's work is guided by three key pieces of legislation:
- The Oceans Act entrusts the Minister with leading integrated oceans management and providing coast guard and hydrographic services.
- The Fisheries Act gives the Minister responsibility for the management of fisheries, habitat, and aquaculture.
- The Species at Risk Act gives the Minister responsibilities associated with the management of aquatic species at risk.
Our Vision
To advance sustainable aquatic ecosystems and support safe and secure Canadian waters while fostering economic prosperity across maritime sectors and fisheries.
Our Mission
Through sound science, forward-looking policy, and operational and service excellence, DFO employees work collaboratively toward the following strategic outcomes:
- Economically Prosperous Maritime Sectors and Fisheries;
- Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems; and
- Safe and Secure Waters.
In real terms, what do we do?
- Save lives.
- Work with security forces to ensure the safe and secure use of Canada’s waterways.
- Help with ship-to-shore communication, navigation, and clear passageways for safe water travel.
- Study, conserve and protect aquatic ecosystems.
- Conduct scientific research and related activities, which are vital to the understanding and sustainable management of Canada’s oceans and aquatic resources.
- Work in collaboration to manage the commercial, recreational and Aboriginal fisheries.
- Provide services to fishermen such as issuing licences.
- Create the conditions to support a vibrant and sustainable aquaculture industry.
- Maintain a network of harbours.
- Ensure compliance with environmental standards and regulations in support of economic development and other activities.
- Provide high-quality hydrographic data, products and services.
- Respond to ship-sourced oil spills
- Develop and promote the wise use of technology to ensure the long-term health of Canada’s waters.
Our Values
The Department’s values are based on the federal public sector values of:
- Respect for democracy
- Respect for people
- Integrity
- Stewardship; and
- Excellence
Building on the foundation of the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector, the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Values and Ethics Codesets out the expectations for behaviour governing all activities the Department performs to fulfill its mandate. It is binding on all management and employees, and it requires that each DFO employee be familiar with its content.
Top learn more about Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s activities, programs and services:
- Browse the topics on the website homepage
- Consult the Department’s Program Activity Architecture and the Report on Plans and Priorities
- Read detailed program descriptions in InfoSource.
