An Accord Between the Government of Canada and the Voluntary Sector
THE ACCORD
IV. COMMITMENTS TO ACTION
The values and principles of the Accord are the starting point for the development of the relationship. Success in building the relationship will depend on the actions and practices of both the Government of Canada and the voluntary sector for the benefit of all Canadians. In moving into the future the following commitments will be essential.
Shared Commitments
The voluntary sector and the Government of Canada commit to:
Act in a manner consistent with the values and principles in this Accord;
Develop the mechanisms and processes required to put the Accord into action;
Work together as appropriate to achieve shared goals and objectives; and
Promote awareness and understanding of the contributions that each makes to Canadian society.
Government of Canada Commitments
The Government of Canada commits to:
Recognize and consider the implications of its legislation, regulations, policies and programs on voluntary sector organizations including the importance of funding policies and practices for the further development of the relationship and the strengthening of the voluntary sector's capacity;
Recognize its need to engage the voluntary sector in open, informed and sustained dialogue in order that the sector may contribute its experience, expertise, knowledge, and ideas in developing better public policies and in the design and delivery of programs; and
Address the issue of ministerial responsibility for the continued development of the relationship with the voluntary sector.
Voluntary Sector Commitments
The voluntary sector commits to:
Continue to identify important or emerging issues and trends in communities, and act on them or bring them to the attention of the Government of Canada;
Serve as a means for the voices and views of all parts of the voluntary sector to be represented to and heard by the Government of Canada, ensuring that the full depth and diversity of the sector is reached and engaged; and
Address the issue of responsibility for the continued development of the relationship with the Government of Canada.