A framework for consensus, cooperation, and progress: The role of Canada’s Council of the Federation in building a national strategy for emergency management

Abstract

In July 2004, Canada’s Premiers expressed their priorities for emergency management at a meeting of the Council of the Federation. Provincial/territorial officials developed a set of priorities through a process of discussion and consensus, and these were subsequently endorsed by the Premiers and accepted by the federal government, resulting in the development of a plan of action to address the Premiers’ priorities, along with other matters of mutual concern.
This article discusses the process by which a provincial/ territorial consensus was formed, and how this executive direction has led to a plan of action and meaningful improvements to emergency management and public safety in Canada. It demonstrates how a proactive and cooperative approach to emergency management policy can lead to tangible operational improvements.