Government Security

Government Security Policy Overview 

The Government of Canada depends on its personnel and assets to deliver services that ensure the health, safety, security and economic well-being of Canadians. In addition, to support the national interest and the Government of Canada's business objectives, it must safeguard employees and assets and assure the continued delivery of services.The Government Security Policy prescribes the application of safeguards to reduce the risk of injury. It is designed to protect employees, preserve the confidentiality, integrity, availability and value of assets, and assure the continued delivery of services. Since the Government of Canada relies extensively on information technology (IT) to provide its services, this policy emphasizes the need for departments to monitor their electronic operations.

Departments are aided in the implementation of security measures by lead security agencies that include the RCMP (physical and information technology security), the Communications Security Establishment (communications security) and PWGSC (contract security) with policy guidance and interpretation provided by TBS. Other institutions with government-wide responsibilities as mandated by the Government Security Policy are the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT), the Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (PSEPC), the Library and Archives of Canada (LAC), Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), the Privy Council Office (PCO), and Transport Canada (TC). The Policy applies equally to the contracting process (vendors/partners).

This policy complements other Treasury Board policies for the management of human resources (e.g., harassment, occupational safety and health), official languages, information, materiel, real property and financial resources.

Through the Policy framework, TBS provides leadership and co-ordination within and between lead security agencies and departments on common security requirements. The Information and Security Policy Division (ISPD) within TBS is responsible for the provision of strategic direction, leadership, advice and assistance on security and service delivery issues.