Meaningful
A meaningful process means a process that provides value to both the CMF and its stakeholders. In order for the consultation to be meaningful, the industry must be consulted on matters that are significant and of importance to the policy decisions of the CMF. In addition, the CMF must consider the industry’s opinions and give adequate weight to the submissions received. The CMF must also provide sufficient information during the consultation to the industry to allow for a meaningful response.
Formal
A formal process ensures certainty, transparency and consistency in the form of consultations conducted. In order for the consultation to be formal, there must be a set consultation schedule determined each year that is communicated to the public. The consultation schedule must be followed by the CMF. While ad hoc and informal inquiries will need to be conducted as questions and issues arise, such informal consultation should be in supplementation only to the set formal process.
Ongoing
The industry consultation must take place every year and continue throughout the year, considering policy issues as they arise until they can be reflected in the Guidelines for the following year. Issues that are raised during the year by stakeholders should be addressed in that same year if time and resources permit, or be considered in the following year.
Inclusive
All stakeholders must be included in the consultation process as well as any interested member of the general public. Each year, the consultation process must include a component which solicits the input of all stakeholders and permits their participation in a transparent and open manner. x close
The CMF conducts consultations with the industry as part of its policy development process in order to:
- Gain high-level stakeholder input into CMF planning and program development and design
- Be informed of emerging stakeholder issues and priorities
- Make fully informed policy decisions
- Maintain two-way communication between the CMF and its stakeholders
- Allow stakeholders to be part of, and understand, the CMF’s policy making process
