There are four types of transfers: the Canada Health Transfer, the Canada Social Transfer, the Equalization Program Transfer and the Territorial Formula Financing Transfer.
The transfer of funding to the provinces can be the subject of various reports. A number of national organizations complain about the fact that reports are irregular, incomplete and difficult to understand. With respect to the Canada Health Transfer, under the act there is a requirement to reach specific goals for care and special programs. The provinces have to be accountable. However, some provinces do not provide in-depth detail on what they do with the money.
We have been told that the territorial formula financing is the subject of some discussion. Yet, based on the reports they make to Parliament, it is rather invisible, despite the significant amounts that are transferred.
The Canada Social Transfer is the subject of very few public discussions. However, we know that there are significant and numerous inequalities between the rich and the poor.
Overall, is the federal government adequately accounting for what falls under its jurisdiction? Let us not forget that the federal government is responsible for services to aboriginal people, the Canadian Forces, the RCMP, veterans and inmates in penitentiaries. The federal government transfers funds into these programs, but it should also be held to account. In short, public reports need to be produced and harmonized to account for funding which is transferred between the various levels of government.