Common menu bar

Breadcrumb

Archived Document

Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to Government of Canada Web Standards; as per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats by contacting us.

Audit of the Canadian Consulate General, Buffalo

(April 2001)

Executive Summary

An audit of the Political, Economic Reporting and Public Affairs (PERPA), International Business Development (IBD), Consular and Administration Programs was conducted in Buffalo during the period September 11 to 15, 2000. A previous audit of the Administration Program took place in 1995.

Mission Management

The Head of Mission (HOM) is involved in all Mission Programs and contributes significantly in representing various initiatives to program audiences and in gaining access to the right people and organizations.

Management mechanisms such as a HOM accountability document, program work plans and required committees are in place. The Treasury Board sponsored Youth Internship Program, is being effectively used throughout the Mission.

Unresolved management issues exist in three of the Mission's five programs. These relate to performance issues in the Administration Program; leadership and motivational issues in the Trade Section; and personnel issues in the CIC Program.

In conformance with departmental policy and sound management practices, LES appraisals are required for all LES staff and establishment of an LES Committee would facilitate communications regarding human resource issues.

Mission Management - Detailed Report

Political, Economic Reporting and Public Affiairs Program (PERPA)

The PERPA Program is operating effectively and efficiently. The Program is managed directly by the HOM and has experienced and knowledgeable staff. Work plans are in place with identifiable objectives, activities and expected results. An issue is being raised concerning the potential implications of not having a dedicated Program Manager to support future HOMs.

PERPA - Detailed Report

International Business Development Program (IBD)

*** and poor morale in the Section. As a result, the Section has been operating in a static and outdated mode, not in keeping with the New Approach principles. *** The arrival of a new STC with solid experience and background is a positive first step in addressing this situation. The issues raised in this report are intended to provide a constructive basis upon which the Mission can build towards turning the Program around.

IBD - Detailed Report

Consular Program

The Mission provides timely and effective Consular Services. The Consular Officer is very experienced and held in high regard by Mission management. The Consular Officer was reminded of her obligation to provide Official Receipts for all revenues which are received as well as the importance of making timely deposits of these revenues.

Consular - Detailed Report

Administration Program

There are areas of the Administration Program that are not performing to standard. ***

The four Crown-owned staff quarters are high maintenance properties leading one to question why private leasing has not been universally applied in Buffalo. In the Human Resources area, a number of longstanding issues have not been resolved and communications in this area could be improved. Financially there is a need for greater efficiencies and tighter control over the management of cash. With close to $40 million being processed through the bank, arrangements with the bank need to be investigated to ensure the Mission's agreement is the best and most economical possible.

Administration - Detailed Report