Message from the Deputy Minister

I am pleased to present the Corporate Business Plan for Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) for the three-year planning period from April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2012.

Western Canadians are grappling with the impact of a major global economic downturn. As we address the challenges and opportunities facing the West, our most important priority will be the delivery of CAF and RInC - two-year Economic Action Plan initiatives announced in Budget 2009. But, while delivery of these initiatives to stimulate the economy in western communities is critical, our commitment to our traditional programs will be as strong as ever.

How we achieve our outcomes is as important as the activities we perform. We will continue to strive to create a strong culture of values and ethics. Accountability, transparency, effective client service, value for money and the integration of risk management into our decision-making processes will be hallmarks of the way we do business.

WD is known for the innovation, creativity and resourcefulness of its team. We will build on our tradition of recruiting and retaining the best and brightest talent and providing them with the learning and development opportunities and the tools necessary to excel and deliver results that benefit the West.

The period covered by this planning document presents challenges. At the same time, it affords opportunities. At WD, we have both the tradition and the ability to position the organization to best serve the West.

Daniel Watson
Deputy Minister, Western Economic Diversification Canada