National Public Service Week 2013

National Public Service Week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of public servants who contribute so much to our society.

Each of you as financial officers play a vital role in the success of our government’s financial control framework.  The work you do ensures good financial stewardship of federal tax dollars and accountable delivery of government programs and services.You are the financial arm of government.

If you are ever in doubt as to the importance of your contribution to Canada’s way of life, look at the fiscal challenges confronting EU nations that failed to maintain proper oversight over taxpayer dollars.

While our government institutions have world-class financial systems in place, recent scandals underscore how much work still needs to be done.  Financial Officers are doing the best job possible given the resources at our disposal.  Insufficient financial capacity has stressed the FI Community to its limits.  Both your Association and the Employer are aware of this, and ACFO is pushing hard to resolve these issues.

Despite the pressures you are under, I encourage all FIs to celebrate our accomplishments and take pride in the positive role you play in Canadian society this Public Service Week.

Milt Isaacs, CMA, CPFA
President, Association of Canadian Finance Officers