Office of the Intelligence Commissioner
Letter on Implementation of the Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion

Summer 2021 update

Ms. Charette,

The Office of the Intelligence Commissioner (ICO) is committed to implementing the Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion.

The ICO is a separate agency with only 10 positions, including one executive position. Created in 2019, following the coming into force of the National Security Act, 2017, its launch did not offer initial recruitment need because, as per the new legislation, the organization took on the staff complement of the former Office of the Communications Security Establishment Commissioner.

Opportunities to appoint Indigenous, Black and other racialized employees to and within the Executive Group have not yet presented itself due to ICO’s limited staffing vacancies.

As a result, our efforts and actions to date have been strategic and looking to the long term. As a new organization, we are committed to advancing anti-racism, equity and inclusion. All communications regarding anti-racism, equity and inclusion are shared with all staff to create an opportunity for open dialogue and transparency.

We are looking at long-term human resources and recruitment approaches towards Indigenous, Black and other racialized candidates. We are also looking to the broader public service for best practices and lessons learned on outreach for future pool of candidates. The ICO will also pursue procurement opportunities with Indigenous businesses.

As the Intelligence Commissioner, I am steadfast in advancing the Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion and continuing this important work.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Jean-Pierre Plouffe, C.D.
Intelligence Commissioner