As my colleague from Atlantic Canada was explaining earlier, CED's programs operate primarily at the grassroots. The applications we receive come from non-profit organizations, SMEs and a variety of other non-profit agencies. The programs are analyzed based on the program framework, in accordance with the authority given us by cabinet and the Treasury Board. When the file is sent to the minister for his signature, it includes a recommendation. The minister has the option of following that recommendation or not. That is his privilege, given that we only have delegated powers. In terms of signing off on the files, we do not have delegated signing authority in that regard. We submit the files to the minister, and the minister makes the final decision.
On November 30th, 2009. See this statement in context.