About Us

What is the Rural Secretariat?

The Rural Secretariat (RS) aims to improve the quality of life in rural communities so these regions can compete in the global economy. The Secretariat also ensures that federal policies and programs respond to the needs of these communities.

Under the RS leadership at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Rural Partnership (CRP) was launched in 1998 in response to stakeholder concerns that government was not responding effectively to rural and remote issues and challenges.

Today, as Canada's Rural Partnership evolves, so too does the Secretariat. In its lead role in the rural file, the RS develops partnerships amongst federal departments, provinces and rural stakeholders in areas such as knowledge building, policy development and the implementation of rural development strategies.

CRP's goal is to provide rural communities/regions with the information, tools and services needed to adapt to rural and industry changes and to develop more competitive regions by taking advantage of the diversity and unused potential of the region.

The RS works with key federal departments and agencies, including natural resource departments, the voluntary sector and non-government organizations, to develop initiatives that support the development of innovative and competitive communities.