The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight recommends that each department review its goals, strategies, outcomes and outcome measures for presentation in the 2001-2004 Business Plans to ensure that there are substantive benchmarks and measurable outcomes included.

Formatting and Terminology

In past years, the committees recommended that a consistent business plan template and standard terminology be adopted across government. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight would also like to point out that the adoption of a common template and terminology will help achieve increased accuracy and provide more relevant, understandable and timely information for committees and the public.

The committee recognizes that with the formation of two new Territories and the switch to tangible capital asset accounting, departments have been in a state of flux. With these initiatives largely now addressed, the committee looks forward to more consistent terminology and business planning within government.

Mr. Speaker, I seek your consent to have the deputy chair of the committee, Mr. Roland, to continue with the report.