Message From the Minister
Protecting and enhancing the quality of life of all Canadians is central to our Government's agenda for the 21st century. Canadians value both economic and social development that at the same time preserves and improves our shared environment. Reconciling economic development, social equity, and environmental quality is what sustainable development is all about. Our responsibility to Canadians is to ensure that our policies and programs meet the needs of today and plan for the challenges of tomorrow. We are committed to building a truly modern 21st century economy that will meet the demands for job creation, economic security, and improved living standards while at the same time allowing all Canadians to pursue the social objectives at the foundation of our quality of life-including health, education, and protection of the environment-now and for future generations.
As a sizeable federal government institution, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can make a positive and significant contribution to the Government of Canada's sustainable development agenda. In particular, we can show leadership by conducting our business in a manner that incorporates environmental responsibility and stewardship. This document, Sustainable Development Strategy 2004-2007, recognizes our achievements to date and affirms our resolve by broadening our perspective and commitment to sustainable development. It pledges achievable goals that will see our organization evolve into a globally recognized best practices organization for sustainable development; and it sets out stringent measures for performance, accountability, and transparency.
The CRA recognizes that sustainable development is not an objective that can be achieved overnight or with a one-time effort. Rather, progress comes one step at a time-through planning, action, learning, and improvement. Step by step, through the principles of sustainable development, the CRA is committed to serving Canadians, making Canada a better place to live now and in the future. I am committed to our shared success.
Hon. Stan Keyes, P.C., M.P.
Minister of National Revenue