The Canadian Government Efficiency Agency (CGEA) is Canada's independent watchdog organization, dedicated to
making the government work better for all Canadians. We conduct thorough audits, promote transparency and advocate
for smart, effective changes across federal departments. Through public feedback, rigorous evaluations and
real-time performance metrics, we're ensuring that every dollar spent by the government is maximized for public
benefit.
Our mission:
Streamline government operations
Hold departments accountable
Improve public service delivery
Empower Canadians with transparency
Join us as we work to build a more efficient, responsive, and effective government. Because a better Canada starts
with better governance.
Canada’s DEI Spending and Why It Should Be Reassessed
Canada has made significant investments in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives across various
sectors, aiming to promote a more inclusive society. However, there is an ongoing debate about the effectiveness
and necessity of these programs. This report examines the extent of Canada’s spending on DEI initiatives and
presents arguments for reevaluating such expenditures.
Canada’s DEI Expenditures
Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
SSHRC’s budget for the 2023/2024 fiscal year was projected to rise to $1.16 billion, with $694 million allocated
to grants, fellowships, and scholarships. However, the exact portion dedicated specifically to DEI-related
initiatives is not clearly defined in publicly available sources.
Canada Media Fund (CMF)
The federal government allocated $60 million over three years (starting in 2021) to the CMF to advance DEI in
Canada’s audiovisual sector.
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC)
NSERC introduced the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Institutional Capacity-Building Grant to promote DEI in
post-secondary research institutions.
Department of Canadian Heritage
This department oversees programs promoting DEI, including the Anti-Racism Action Program and the Community
Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program, though specific budget details are unclear.
Arguments for Reevaluating DEI Funding
Effectiveness and Outcomes
Some critics argue that DEI programs often lack measurable results, making it difficult to assess their
effectiveness. Certain diversity training initiatives may be counterproductive, sometimes increasing division
rather than fostering inclusivity.
Financial Prioritization
In an economic climate where resources are limited, funding DEI programs may divert money from essential services
like healthcare, infrastructure, and education. However, prioritization is a matter of public policy debate.
Unintended Consequences
Some researchers suggest that DEI policies might unintentionally lead to tokenism or reverse discrimination,
creating resentment among those who feel unfairly disadvantaged.
Corporate Retrenchment
Some companies, including Shopify, have reduced or eliminated funding for internal DEI programs, indicating that
even private sector organizations are reevaluating the necessity and effectiveness of such initiatives.
Public Perception Shift
There has been a notable decline in corporate sponsorship for DEI-focused events, such as Pride Toronto, which
suggests a changing public and corporate attitude toward these initiatives.
Conclusion
While Canada’s commitment to DEI aims to promote inclusivity, a reassessment of its funding and impact is
warranted. The government should ensure that DEI initiatives produce measurable benefits and do not
unintentionally create new disparities. Redirecting some DEI funds to more urgent national priorities may better
serve all Canadians.
March 11, 2025
As of March 2025, Canada's federal debt stands at approximately $1.25 trillion CAD.
This translates to a per-person debt burden of $29,900 CAD.
Implications for Canadians:
Higher Taxes: Increased debt often necessitates higher taxes to service the debt, reducing disposable
income.
Inflationary Pressures: Elevated debt levels can contribute to inflation, increasing the cost of
living.
Reduced Public Services: More government revenue directed toward debt servicing means less funding for
essential services like healthcare and infrastructure.
March 11, 2025
DCGE is seeking help from the public! Please DM this account with insights on finding and fixing waste, fraud and
abuse within the Canadian government.
March 9, 2025
The Canadian government is slow, inefficient, and full of red tape. High taxes, endless bureaucracy, and poor
leadership hold the country back. Canada needs real change, not more government waste.
November 20, 2024
Canada’s national debt has reached $1.35 trillion, translating to approximately $41,958 per taxpayer. This
growing figure is attributed to:
Pandemic-related spending, which left a legacy of structural deficits.
Investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and social programs.
Rising interest costs on debt due to elevated borrowing rates in recent years.
The high debt limits Canada’s ability to respond to future crises or invest in new programs without increasing
taxes or cutting spending.
Economic Growth.
November 15, 2024
Report: Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA)
The CRA faces ongoing criticism for delays in tax processing, inadequate customer support, and cybersecurity
concerns, affecting millions of Canadians. Immediate efficiency improvements are urgently needed.
Based on recent performance issues, including processing delays, customer support shortcomings, and cybersecurity
concerns, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) would receive a 5 out of 10. Improvements in efficiency, responsiveness,
and security protocols are essential to better meet the needs of Canadians effectively.
The ranking system used is based on evaluating the effectiveness and performance of an organization, considering
factors like efficiency, responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and security. Here's the breakdown:
0-3: Poor Performance
Significant issues in multiple areas (e.g., constant delays, poor customer service, serious security risks).
Major reforms are needed.
4-5: Below Average
The organization struggles in key areas but still provides some value or essential services. There are notable
inefficiencies or gaps in service, and improvement is necessary.
6-7: Average to Good
The organization performs adequately in most areas but has room for improvement. Customers or users may
experience occasional frustration, but services are generally reliable.
8-9: Very Good
High level of efficiency, responsiveness, and service quality, with only minor areas for improvement. Meets most
expectations well and delivers on its core functions.
10: Excellent
The organization consistently exceeds expectations, operates with exceptional efficiency, customer service is
top-notch, and it demonstrates innovative solutions to challenges.
For the CRA, with its delays and some operational inefficiencies, we rated it a 5, meaning it's below average
with significant room for improvement.
November 15, 2024
Independent Investigation Unit
The DCGE will host a team specifically tasked with investigating cases of misuse, inefficiency, or corruption.
This unit will conduct independent inquiries when necessary, ensuring that all Canadian government departments
remain accountable for their actions.
Monthly Accountability Scorecards:
Each month, the DCGE issues scorecards for each Canadian government department based on key performance
indicators. These scorecards track improvements and highlight areas needing attention. Made fully public, they
empower Canadians to see how departments are progressing and where there’s room for improvement, driving
accountability across the board.
