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Federal-Provincial and Interprovincial Relations

Interprovincial

The Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs works closely with Ontario ministries to coordinate the province’s interprovincial policy agenda, and with other jurisdictions to advance Ontario’s interests.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Support ministries preparing for sectoral federal/provincial/territorial meetings to ensure positive outcomes for Ontario
  • Provide advice and support for policy, communications and negotiations for Council of the Federation meetings
  • Work with other provinces and territories on matters of joint interest or concern
  • Undertake research on intergovernmental issues.
Image of Interprovincial meeting
Photo: Premier of Ontario, Dalton McGuinty and Premier of Quebec, Jean Charest

The Council of the Federation logo

Council of the Federation

The Council of the Federation was created by Premiers on December 5, 2003 to provide a venue for provinces and territories to:

  • Play a leadership role in revitalizing the Canadian federation
  • Build a more constructive and cooperative federal system.

The Council of the Federation aims to promote interprovincial-territorial cooperation, foster meaningful relationships between governments and demonstrate leadership on issues important to Canadians.

Photo of Ontario and Quebec logos

Ontario-Quebec

Since 2008 Ontario and Quebec have worked collaboratively on creating a regional partnership in central Canada to strengthen their economies and cooperate on key issues like climate change, energy and transportation.

In 2008, Ontario and Quebec held a first-ever joint Cabinet meeting. The meeting focused on shared priorities and committed the two provinces to work together to create a prosperous regional partnership.

In September 2009, Ontario and Quebec signed the Ontario-Quebec Trade and Cooperation Agreement to create opportunities for more robust trade between the provinces, help create and sustain jobs and make the region more attractive to international investment.

The two provinces continue to work together in developing a cap-and-trade system to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

Image of the Premier of Ontario and Premier of Quebec
Photo: Joint Ontario-Quebec Cabinet Meeting

Links:

Federal-Provincial

The Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs coordinates the intergovernmental activities of Ontario ministries to make sure Ontario’s positions are coordinated and unified ensuring the federal government pays attention to Ontario.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Provide advice and support for policy, communications and negotiations for First Ministers Meetings;
  • Undertake research on intergovernmental issues and analyzing the position of the federal government on policy issues important to Ontario; and
  • Ensure Ontario and Ontarians are treated fairly in the Canadian federation.
Photo of Ontario and Canada logos
Image of the Prime Minister of Canada and the Premier of Ontario
Photo: Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, and Premier of Ontario, Dalton McGuinty

Federal website:
Intergovernmental Affairs at the Privy Council Office

Links:

First Ministers Meetings:

Other Intergovernmental links:

Provincial and Territorial Intergovernmental Affairs websites:

 
 
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