The Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (OSGG) supports the governor general in fulfilling the constitutional, State and ceremonial responsibilities of the role. The OSGG is also responsible for planning and implementing the governor general’s program and the many activities undertaken with, and on behalf of, Canadians in communities across the country and abroad, as well as with the Canadian Armed Forces in the governor general’s capacity as commander-in-chief. These activities recognize outstanding achievement by Canadians and foster national identify, unity and pride.
Our Mission: To support the governor general as the King’s representative in Canada, and to serve Canadians.
Our vision: Connect, Inspire and Honour Canadians
Our priorities are based on a clear understanding of the governor general’s responsibilities:
- Representing the Crown in Canada
- Representing Canada at Home and Abroad
- Encouraging Excellence
- Serving as Commander-in-Chief
- Connecting with Canadians
Table of Contents
- Message from the Secretary
- Highlights of 2024-2025
- 2024-2025 by the numbers
- Reconciliation in action
- Governor General’s Symposium: Building A Safe And Respectful Digital World/a>
- Mental Health Learning And Listening Tour
- Constitutional Responsibilities
- Representing Canada
- Connecting with Canadians
- Serving as Commander-in-Chief
- Encouraging Excellence
- OSGG Operations
We acknowledge that Rideau Hall sits on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation, and that the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec is situated on the traditional territories of several Indigenous nations who have been stewards of the land for thousands of years.
Message from the Secretary
I am pleased to present the 2024-2025 Annual Report of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (OSGG). This document outlines the ongoing work of the OSGG in supporting Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada.
The OSGG has the distinct role of helping Canada’s governors general connect, honour and inspire Canadians. This past year saw a rise in Canadian pride and a stronger sense of nationhood. Governor General Simon stood with Canadians on the national stage, in celebration, in support and in times of trial. From coast to coast to coast, Her Excellency met with people from all walks of life at honours ceremonies, during regional visits, and on the path to reconciliation.
It is my privilege to lead the dedicated team that makes it all happen. Whether they are working behind the scenes or engaging with the public, everyone at Rideau Hall, the Citadelle and the Chancellery of Honours is deeply committed to serving the Governor General and all Canadians.
Ken MacKillop
Highlights of 2024-2025
Now more than ever, we must build on our shared values as Canadians. We must encourage meaningful dialogue within our society and cultivate a renewed sense of pride and hope as we write the next chapters of our national history together.
The 2024-25 fiscal period coincided with the third and fourth years of Governor General Simon’s historic mandate, which focused on the importance of listening to and learning from Canadians. Regional visits and events at Rideau Hall and the Citadelle brought together leaders, dignitaries, honourees and the public to address issues affecting people from coast to coast to coast, and to celebrate their contributions to Canadian society.
The Governor General’s Symposium: Building a Safe and Respectful Digital World was a cornerstone event in 2024. At Rideau Hall, Her Excellency welcomed subject matter experts, mental health professionals and individuals with lived experience to share cross-cultural insights and work towards collaborative ways to champion greater digital respect.
Governor General Simon celebrated culture and recognized achievement during regional and international visits, which included National Acadian Day in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia; the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, France; and celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the formation of Nunavut.
The Mental Health Learning and Listening Tour shed light on the exceptional work in mental health being done in Canadian communities, rural areas and urban centres.
In her role as commander-in-chief, Her Excellency witnessed the reinternment of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Unknown Soldier in St. John’s, July 2024. In August, she visited Vimy Ridge and Beaumont-Hamel to honour the memory of Canadians lost during the First World War.
At the request of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Governor General Simon prorogued Parliament on January 6, 2025, before accepting the prime minister’s resignation. On March 23, Prime Minister Mark Carney presented the Governor General with an instrument of advice recommending the dissolution of Parliament, which she approved.
In partnership with the Privy Council Office and the Rideau Hall Foundation, the OSGG is enhancing the Order of Canada nomination process to better reflect Canadian diversity and inclusion.
2024-2025 by the numbers
Rideau Hall visitors: 45 000
Citadelle visitors: close to 10 000
Guided tours: 3 112
Guides working at the residences: 31
Speeches delivered: 74
Visits across Canada: 26 cities and communities in 9 provinces and 2 territories
National day letters sent to foreign leaders: 173
Bills granted Royal Assent: 28
Letters of credence received: 41
Awards, decorations, medals and orders administered by the Chancellery: 42 055
Anniversary (50+ years) greetings sent from the Governor General: 5 039
Birthday (90+ years) greetings sent from the Governor General: 8 177
Anniversary (60+ years) greetings sent on behalf of The King: 2 856
Birthday (100+ years) greetings sent on behalf of The King: 4 126
Reconciliation in action
Reconciliation is a way of seeing and a way of living life. It is about being intentional in how we interact with one another—how we show respect. Reconciliation is a shared responsibility between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Reconciliation will thrive if we nurture it, in our workplaces and our homes. It will thrive if it is taught in our schools and our public offices. And it will thrive when we recognize Indigenous excellence.
As the first Indigenous governor general of Canada, Her Excellency plays an important role in advancing reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Throughout the 2024-25 period, Governor General Simon participated in and hosted several events, ceremonies and commemorations to recognize the experiences and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.
25th Anniversary of Nunavut
Governor General Simon’s first official visit to Nunavut in April 2024 coincided with the 25th anniversary of the territory’s creation. Both the Governor General and her husband, Whit Fraser, joined in a special community celebration marking the milestone in Iqaluit.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) 2024
Leading up to the fourth anniversary of the NDTR, Rideau Hall hosted a special Doors Open weekend on September 28 and 29, 2024. More than 700 visitors engaged with guides and viewed artwork in the residence to learn more about Indigenous stories, culture and customs. Elder Aigah Attagutsiak lit the qulliq, a traditional Inuit oil lamp, and spoke about its importance. Guests also took part in an interactive experience inspired by Métis artist Christi Belcourt’s Honouring My Spirit Helpers, and crafted hearts for inclusion in the Rideau Hall heart garden.
On September 30, 2024, a Sacred Fire was lit on the grounds of Rideau Hall by Kitigan Zibi apprentice fire keeper Sheldon McGregor, and tended to throughout the day. The ceremony encouraged participants to build community, exchange knowledge and reflect on the impact of residential schools.
Highlights
April 19, 2024: Indspire Awards, Ottawa, Ontario
June 21, 2024: Installation of Honouring my Spirit Helpers by Christi Belcourt
October 30, 2024: Reception to mark the closing of the National Gathering on Unmarked Burials
November 10, 2024: National Commemorative Ceremony for Murray Sinclair, Winnipeg, Manitoba
November 28, 2024: First annual National Indigenous Defence Conference, National War Museum, Ottawa, Ontario
December 6, 2024: CINUK Arctic Research Conference, Ottawa, Ontario
January 5, 2025: Discussion on the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report, University of Victoria, British Columbia
Governor General’s Symposium: Building A Safe And Respectful Digital World
Digital abuse is a growing issue … (and) the impacts are serious. It can affect our mental health. It can cause women and girls to withdraw from leadership roles or public life. It shapes our progress toward equality, diversity and inclusion.
With the advent of social media and instant messaging, people have become more connected than ever before. Yet these same platforms that serve to bring people together also open the door to individuals and entities whose commentary can be discriminatory, threatening and abusive.
Online harassment and cyberbullying can profoundly affect an individual’s social, mental and physical well-being. According to the United Nations, 38 per cent of women have had personal experiences with online violence. Most girls report their first experience of social media harassment takes place between the ages of 14-16. Seven in 10 young people have been exposed to online hate. Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community are also disproportionally victimized by cyberbullying and harassment.
In response to these trends, Governor General Simon opened the doors of Rideau Hall on April 11, 2024, for a special symposium. It brought together more than 150 leaders, subject matter experts and people with lived experience to discuss the negative impact of online abuse, the lack of safe online spaces for respectful discourse, and solutions to these ongoing issues.
Participants included academics, journalists, government officials and mental health practitioners; representatives of the technology industry, non-governmental organizations and think tanks; members of the diplomatic corps; and youth leaders from across the country.
Le Devoir columnist Emilie Nicolas moderated two panel sessions. Speakers were candid about the impacts of online abuse on their own lives: the loss of employment and professional opportunities, threats of violence, and disengagement from society. They all shared a commitment to creating change and developing solutions to limit the devastating effects of online abuse.
A fireside chat between journalist Lisa LaFlamme and Governor General Simon emphasized how far-reaching the impacts of online abuse can be, especially for women in leadership positions. They talked about the importance of a collective voice that amplifies efforts and inspires change, and the need for leadership by example: when people in senior roles speak out against online abuse, others don’t feel so alone and are more likely to report incidents or seek help.
More information about the symposium and its findings can be found in Fostering Respect in a Digital World.
Mental Health Learning And Listening Tour
As individuals and as a country, we must prioritize our mental health the same way we do our physical health. By creating a platform for Canadians to share lived experiences and best practices, I hope to establish a network of support, ideas, resilience and hope. Together, we can improve the mental health landscape from coast to coast to coast.
Mental illness affects everyone and does not discriminate. The Canadian Mental Health Association, in its State of Mental Health in Canada 2024, reports that more than a quarter of Canadians described their mental health as “poor” or “fair,”; this is much higher among Indigenous peoples (38 per cent). Far too many Canadians continue to endure stigma, face obstacles in getting help, and suffer in silence.
Launched on July 2, 2024, the Governor General’s Mental Health Learning and Listening Tour shed light on the diverse mental health and wellness needs of Canadians, particularly in rural and remote settings. The tour established connections among similar programs across the country and showcased their innovative practices and services.
In addition to visiting community organizations dedicated to mental health, Her Excellency participated in round-table discussions with professionals, youth and people with lived experience at each location: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador; Winnipeg, Manitoba; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Iqaluit, Nunavut.
Constitutional Responsibilities
I have seen our commitment to creating a better world by building bridges of understanding. This fills me with hope for the future. I encourage Canadians to embrace and celebrate all our voices and all our stories. Lead with empathy, curiosity and dialogue. Together, we can shape an inclusive Canada.
His Majesty King Charles III, as king of Canada and its head of State, is the personal embodiment of the Canadian Crown. As representatives of the Crown, the governor general and provincial lieutenant governors act on The King’s behalf.
The governor general acts on the advice of the head of government—the prime minister— but has the right to advise, encourage and warn. As such, the governor general can offer valued counsel to the prime minister. The governor general also holds certain reserve powers, thereby acting as a democratic safeguard in Canada.
During the 2024-25 period, Governor General Simon presided over two Cabinet shuffles, the prorogation and dissolution of Parliament, and several private swearing-in ceremonies of Privy councillors and Cabinet ministers.
A new prime minister
On January 6, 2025, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau asked Governor General Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24, 2025, and subsequently announced his resignation as prime minister. Her Excellency officially accepted the resignation at Rideau Hall.
The Right Honourable Mark Carney and his Cabinet were subsequently sworn in on March 14, 2025, shortly before Prime Minister Carney asked the Governor General to grant a dissolution of Parliament. The official documents were signed on March 23, 2025, launching the nation into an election period.
Granting Royal Assent
Royal Assent is the official means by which a bill—approved by both the House of Commons and the Senate—becomes an act of Parliament and part of the law of Canada.
Between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, Governor General Simon granted Royal Assent to 28 parliamentary bills.
Viceregal Conference
From June 12 to 14, 2024, Governor General Simon hosted the Annual Conference of the Governor General, Lieutenant Governors and Territorial Commissioners at Rideau Hall. This conference leverages the work and networks of the viceregal representatives to share best practices, hold strategic discussions and promote the Crown in Canada.
This year’s discussion topics focused on respectful discourse, reconciliation, and trust in public institutions. Plenary sessions were led by David Cochrane (CBC’s Power and Politics); Nicolas Diamond (Privy Council Office); Matthew Johnston (MediaSmarts); and the speakers of the Senate and the House of Commons.
The National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, the President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the President of the Métis National Council shared their perspectives on building understanding and relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples on the path toward reconciliation.
A special behind-the-scenes tour of the Centre Block construction on Parliament Hill was offered within the context of making public institutions more accessible and inclusive, and maximizing technology to increase public participation in our parliamentary system.
Attendees had the opportunity to network with partners from across the country, ranging from patron organizations and community-based non-profits to youth associations and related federal departments.
Representing Canada
Canada understands the importance of international collaboration and respect among nations. (…) Canada is also a steadfast advocate for human rights, freedom and democracy. And we are proud of the diverse cultures that compose our society, each bringing different strengths and perspectives to the table. This is at the core of who we are as Canadians.
Letters of Credence
When new heads of mission are posted to Canada, they must first present letters of credence (credentials) to the governor general. Formal presentation ceremonies take place at the official residences of the governor general throughout the year.
During the 2024-25 period, 41 letters of credence were presented to Governor General Simon at eight ceremonies welcoming new ambassadors and high commissioners to Canada.
International Relations
In addition to receiving diplomatic credentials, the governor general regularly engages with foreign leaders through courtesy calls, official correspondence and State visits.
On April 10, 2024, Governor General Simon met with His Excellency Gabriel Attal, Prime Minister of the French Republic; and on November 26, 2024, Her Excellency met with Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) of Ukraine. Both meetings were held at Rideau Hall.
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
At the request of then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Governor General Simon attended the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as part of a visit to France, from August 27 to September 1, 2024. Her Excellency was present for the Opening Ceremonies, and had the opportunity to meet with athletes during a tour of the Paralympic Village. A total of 126 Canadian athletes competed in 18 different sports.
Connecting with Canadians
Across Canada, all of us can attest to the strengths of our communities and our country. Community connects us to each other. It nurtures ideals. It supports its members in need. Community makes us all more resilient, too, in the face of challenges.
During the 2024-25 period, Governor General Simon made profound and lasting connections with people from coast to coast to coast. At Rideau Hall and the Citadelle, the Governor General celebrated honours recipients and engaged with visitors during special events.
On the road, Her Excellency travelled to 26 cities and communities across 9 provinces and 2 territories. She conducted her first official visits as governor general to Nunavut, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Alberta. These visits provided the Governor General with the opportunity to hear the stories of Canadians first-hand, in the places where they live, work and play.
Governor General’s History Symposium
As part of a working visit to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Governor General Simon participated in this special event at the University of Winnipeg. A panel of authors, scholars, historians and teachers explored the need for greater inclusivity in how our history is taught and remembered. The event was presented by Canada’s National History Society with the support of the Rideau Hall Foundation and the Government of Canada.
Invictus Games
Governor General Simon attended the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler as part of her official visit to British Columbia from January 5 to 9, 2025. These Games, hosted jointly by Canada and the Four Host First Nations, provided Her Excellency with the opportunity to meet with and cheer on the 56-member-strong Canadian team as they participated in 11 different adaptive sports.
Rideau Hall
More than 45 000 people visited Rideau Hall between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
In summer 2024, the OSGG relaunched two public programming initiatives that had been paused during the pandemic: Storytime, held in collaboration with United for Literacy, encouraged young visitors to read books and engage in fun literacy and STEM activities; and live Ottawa Chamberfest performances were held at Rideau Hall during Ottawa’s Doors Open event in June and throughout the long weekend in August.
The heart garden - Established in collaboration with the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society, the Rideau Hall heart garden honours First Nations, Inuit and Métis children who died in the residential school system and those who survived. On June 21, 2024, National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Governor General Simon invited schoolchildren to Rideau Hall to create new hearts for inclusion in the garden. Over the course of the summer, visitors and guests planted more than 1 000 hearts as a sign of their commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action.
Winter Celebration - Rideau Hall’s annual Winter Celebration has become a tradition for locals and visitors alike. As part of Winterlude, the 2025 event drew 2 489 guests who participated in a range of winter sports, educational programming and cultural activities. Local embassies and community partners contributed to the event’s success.
Skating Rink - From January 10, 2025, to March 2, 2025, 3 500 visitors laced up their skates for day and evening ice times on the historic Rideau Hall rink. Special programming was added to provide learn-to-skate opportunities to community organizations serving individuals who might otherwise encounter barriers to this outdoor activity.
Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec
Close to 10 000 visitors came to the Citadelle during the 2024-25 reporting period. This included a growing number of school groups, with more than 1 500 students engaging in the residence’s educational programming, held in partnership with the Musée Royal 22e Régiment and Parks Canada.
This year, the Citadelle received its Kéroul certification, which evaluates standards of accessibility at locations throughout the province of Quebec.
Interest in the Grands Feux Loto-Québec also increased in 2024, with more than 850 guests taking advantage of free and accessible reserved seating on the Citadelle terrace to view this spectacular fireworks display over the St. Lawrence River.
Highlights
- June 4-7, 2024: Visit to New Brunswick
- Aug 14-16, 2024: Visit to Nova Scotia
- Sept 24-25, 2024: Visit to Quebec
- February 2025: Visit to BC
- March 19, 2025: InvestInYourself Youth Summit
- March 7, 2025: IWD celebration
Serving as Commander-in-Chief
In these times of growing uncertainty and insecurity around the world, the Canadian Armed Forces play a crucial role in shaping and protecting Canada's identity. You are upholding Canada's legacy of co-operation and trust with our allies and between nations. You have the courage to do what is right, despite danger or difficulty. You have displayed integrity and loyalty to our country. You embody the values that unite us and make Canada stronger.
During the 2024-25 period, Governor General Simon engaged with CAF personnel at various bases and operational locations across the country and abroad to learn about their ongoing commitments to Canada’s safety and security. Her Excellency also paid tribute to past and present service members during commemorative events held as part of her regional visits.
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) 100th Anniversary
The RCAF celebrated its 100th anniversary in June 2024. To mark this auspicious occasion in Canadian military history, Governor General Simon attended and delivered remarks at the Centennial Ball, held in Ottawa, Ontario, on June 1, 2024. During her official visit to New Brunswick, Her Excellency unveiled the RCAF 100 Pennfield Ridge Centre Monument and delivered remarks to guests and veterans in attendance.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s Unknown Soldier
As part of her official visit to Newfoundland and Labrador, Governor General Simon was honoured to attend both the lying-in-state and reinternment of Newfoundland’s Unknown Solider. The nameless individual was chosen to represent the 1 700 servicemen of the Dominion of Newfoundland who died in the First World War.
Upon her arrival in St. John’s on June 30, Governor General Simon paid her respects at the Confederation Building, where the repatriated remains lay in state. She then joined residents and CAF members on Memorial Day (Canada Day) for the final internment at the Newfoundland National War Memorial, which had been refurbished to mark its centennial.
Chief of the Defence Staff Change of Command
On July 18, 2024, Governor General Simon presided over the Change of Command Ceremony in Ottawa, Ontario, marking a formal transition in Canada’s senior military leadership. Her Excellency praised outgoing CDS General Wayne Eyre for his years of service before presenting the CAF Ensign to General Jennie Carignan.
Vimy Ridge and Beaumont-Hamel
On August 30, 2024, as part of her travels to France, Her Excellency visited the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in Arras and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in Auchonvillers. The Governor General paid her respects and laid wreaths on behalf of all Canadians at each site. She also spoke with Canadian student guides and toured Vimy’s tunnels, trenches and visitor centre.
Recognition and Honours
During the 2024-25 period, 103 individuals were appointed to the Order of Military Merit and 33 service members were awarded with Meritorious Service Decorations (Military). This is in addition to the thousands of service and campaign medals that are awarded by the governor general, but are administered by the Canadian Armed Forces.
On April 19, 2024, Governor General Simon unveiled a heraldic badge created by the Canadian Heraldic Authority for the Rainbow Veterans of Canada (RVC). The RVC represents CAF members who, due to their sexual orientation, were victims of the LGBT Purge of the 1950s to mid-1990s; the organization also represents other 2SLGBTQI+ veterans.
On March 28, 2025, Governor General Simon presented the ninth Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation to CAF members involved in Operation AEGIS. In August 2021, as foreign military groups withdrew from Afghanistan, the Taliban reclaimed power over the country. In the chaos that followed, CAF members and international partners led Operation AEGIS, a massive evacuation of more than 3 700 Afghan nationals with close ties to the Government of Canada, along with their families.
Highlights
May 16-17, 2024: Visit to the Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario
June 6, 2024: Event marking the 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, Moncton, New Brunswick.
October 16, 2024: First Poppy of the Remembrance period, Ottawa, Ontario
November 11, 2024: Remembrance Day and National Silver Cross Mother Luncheon, Ottawa, Ontario
December 5, 2024: Canadian Special Operations Regiment Standard Ceremony, Petawawa and Pembroke, Ontario
January 22, 2025: Visit to The Pepper Pod: A Retreat Centre for Women Veterans, Chelsea, Quebec
Encouraging Excellence
The Order of Canada is not just about past achievements. It is about the ongoing journey of our nation. It is a call to continue striving for greatness, and to inspire further positive change around you.
The governor general presents honours and awards through the Canadian Honours System to acknowledge extraordinary people on behalf of all Canadians. As head of the Canadian Heraldic Authority, the governor general also grants heraldic emblems to individuals and organizations.
Chancellery of Honours
The Chancellery of Honours, as part of the OSGG, is responsible for the general administration of the Canadian Honours System, which includes Canadian orders, decorations and medals.
Cross of Valour - As part of a presentation of Decorations for Bravery on October 24, 2024, Governor General Simon presented Canada’s highest civilian honour, the Cross of Valour, to Lucie L’Abbée, mother of the late Patrick L'Abbée Chouinard, who succumbed to his injuries after attempting to save his children from a house fire.
The Cross of Valour recognizes acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril. This is only the 21st time this honour has been awarded since its creation in 1972, and the first to be awarded since May 2006.
King Charles III Coronation Medal - To mark the one-year anniversary of His Majesty The King’s Coronation, the Chancellery of Honours unveiled the medal design and released program details for the King Charles III Coronation Medal on May 6, 2024.
More than 500 partners were authorized to nominate individuals for this award. Parliamentarians, non-governmental organizations, the Canadian Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the public service, and provincial and territorial governments submitted their nominations; medals were delivered to partners for presentation in local ceremonies.
In total, the medal was awarded to 29 745 deserving individuals across the country. Those recognized included 125 unsung heroes who were selected and presented with medals by Governor General Simon. Two main presentation ceremonies were held: one at Rideau Hall and one at the Citadelle of Québec.
The Coronation Medal program closed on March 31, 2025.
Regional and private ceremonies - Local honours ceremonies are held to recognize individuals and groups in their hometowns during the governor general’s regional visits and cross-country travels. Private presentations are also organized for those who cannot travel due to health conditions.
In 2024-25, Her Excellency participated in several special presentations of honours, including the following:
April 1, 2024: Private investiture of John Amagoalik, O.C., in Iqaluit, Nunavut
July 2, 2024: Regional honours presentation at The Rooms, in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
August 31, 2024: Presentation of honours, Paris, France
October 28, 2024: Regional Order of Canada presentation at Government House, Edmonton, Alberta
November 20, 2024: Private investiture of Bernard Joseph Bocquel, C.M., at the Legislative Building, Winnipeg, Manitoba
November 21, 2024: Private, in-hospital investiture of Frances Estelle Reed Simons, O.C., in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Foreign Honours - The Chancellery plays a central role in the implementation of the Policy Respecting the Awarding of an Order, Decoration or Medal by a Commonwealth or Foreign Government. During the 2024-25 period, the Chancellery administered 381 foreign honours requests.
Canadian Heradlic Authority (CHA)
During the 2024-25 period, the CHA granted or registered a total of 407 emblems, representing a significant increase over the previous year. Some notable examples included the Collège Jean-Eudes in Montréal, the Town of Nanton in Alberta, and the Canadian Explosives Technicians’ Association.
Six new badges for Canadian Armed Forces units were also approved, including those for HMCS Frédérick Rolette and HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, and one new military flag, for The King’s Harbour Master.
Heralds delivered lectures at national and international events to speak on the role of heraldry in our country’s identity, and to mark the 60th anniversary of the National Flag of Canada.
Revising insignia
The CHA has been heavily involved in the process of revising official insignia to incorporate the Canadian Royal Crown and The King’s Royal Cypher and effigy. The CHA also served in an advisory role to other federal and provincial government departments and agencies making similar changes to their official emblems.
On December 12, 2024, the new King Charles III version of the Canadian Forces’ Decoration was unveiled and presented to recipients in Ottawa, Ontario. This year marked the 75th anniversary of the medal, which recognizes the completion of 12 years of good conduct in military service.
Honours by the Numbers
Awarded = includes appointments to orders and the official awarding of decorations, medals and other awards directly administered by the Chancellery of Honours.
Presented = includes investitures and honours ceremonies presided over by Governor General Simon, presentations hosted by delegated officials, and insignia sent directly to recipients.
|
Honour |
Awarded |
Presented |
|
Order of Canada - Companion |
2 |
7 |
|
Order of Canada - Officer |
42 |
189 |
|
Order of Canada - Member |
132 |
64 |
|
Order of Military Merit - Commander |
5 |
8 |
|
Order of Military Merit - Officer |
21 |
22 |
|
Order of Military Merit – Member |
77 |
106 |
|
Order of Merit of Police Forces – Officer |
10 |
10 |
|
Order of Merit of Police Forces - Member |
82 |
25 |
|
Cross of Valour |
0 |
1 |
|
Star of Courage |
2 |
4 |
|
Meritorious Service Cross – Military |
5 |
14 |
|
Meritorious Service Cross - Civil |
9 |
10 |
|
Medal of Bravery |
29 |
37 |
|
Meritorious Service Medal – Military |
33 |
47 |
|
Meritorious Service Medal – Civil |
35 |
57 |
|
Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers |
57 |
77 |
|
Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation |
1 |
1 |
|
Governor General’s Commendations for Bravery |
8 |
8 |
|
King Charles III Coronation Medal |
29 745 |
29 000 |
|
Canadian Volunteer Service for Korea |
17 |
17 |
|
The following honours are presented by external organizations: |
||
|
Order of Saint John – all levels |
83 |
0 |
|
Police Exemplary Service Medal |
2 370 |
0 |
|
Fire Exemplary Service Medal |
3 248 |
0 |
|
Corrections Exemplary Service Medal |
628 |
0 |
|
Coast Guard Exemplary Service Medal |
218 |
0 |
|
Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal |
930 |
0 |
|
Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal |
419 |
0 |
|
Academic Medal |
3 491 |
0 |
OSGG Operations
The OSGG is headed by a secretary, who serves both as senior advisor to the governor general and as Herald Chancellor of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. The secretary is supported by an assistant secretary, who provides senior leadership and direction to both programs and internal services.
The department is divided into seven distinct branches, divisions and directorates: the Events, Visitor Services and Programs Branch; the Official Residences Branch; the Chancellery of Honours; the Human Resources Directorate; the Communications & Public Affairs Branch; the Information Management & Information Technology Division; and the Finance Division, which includes Materiel Management and Procurement.
Organizational Review
Starting in late 2022, the OSGG began reflecting on how best to structure itself to deliver on its mandate to support the current and future governors general. Following internal review and department-wide evaluations, it was announced in May 2024 that the OSGG would undergo changes to its executive leadership structure.
As part of this structural reorganization, business lines were grouped with complementary functions under the same leadership. The Horizontal Integration and Partnership (HIP) team was introduced to create and maintain operational policies, lead work across branches and divisions on strategic planning in support of both the Governor General’s and the organization’s priorities, and coordinate departmental reporting.
This shift set the foundation to optimize business processes and align resources with priorities. It also enabled the OSGG to foresee potential challenges and opportunities, and be proactive in identifying risk and developing mitigation strategies to increase the department’s adaptability and resiliency.
Operational Summaries
The OSGG’s operating budget is approved by Parliament. The department is also accountable to Parliament for its expenditures, which are disclosed through the public accounts process at the end of every year.
| Governor General Support | Internal Service | Total | |
| Vote 1 - Program Expenditures | $17,818,614 | $7,998,885 | $25,817,549 |
| Statutory (non-discretionary) Expenditures | $3,019,908 | $793,152 | $3,813,060 |
| TOTAL | $20,838,602 | $8,792,007 | $29,630,609 |
Support from Other Government Departments
In addition to the support provided by the OSGG, six federal government departments and agencies are also mandated to support the activities of the governor general. The funds allocated to this role and spent directly by the following organizations from their budget appropriations amounted to $33,140,071.
| NCC | $ 9,050,181 |
| RCMP | $ 18,645,214 |
| DND | $ 2,988,219 |
| PSPC | $ 2,352,486 |
| GAC | $ 93,972 |
| PCH | $ 10,000 |
| TOTAL | $ 33,140,071 |
For further details on these departmental and agency expenditures, please contact the organizations involved, or visit their respective websites.
The OSGG and Indigenous Businesses
In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #92, the Government of Canada affirmed its commitment, in August 2021, to renewing and strengthening its economic relationship with Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities by increasing opportunities for First Nations, Inuit and Métis businesses through the federal procurement process.
As part of this initiative, the Government committed to meeting a minimum target of awarding five per cent of the total value of its procurement contracts to Indigenous businesses in 2024-25.
The five-per-cent target is calculated from the total value of all contracts awarded to Indigenous businesses divided by the total value of all contracts awarded by the department. As part of Phase 3 of implementing the Indigenous procurement strategy, the OSGG was required the meet the five-per-cent target starting in 2024-25.
For the fiscal year 2024-25, the OSGG set a target of awarding 8.75 per cent of its contracts to Indigenous businesses. The OSGG is pleased to report that it significantly exceeded its goal, awarding 23.99 per cent of its total contracts to Indigenous businesses, which represents a sum of $606,856 out of $2,529,199.
This achievement reflects the OSGG’s ongoing commitment to advancing reconciliation and to supporting the growth and success of Indigenous businesses across Canada.
Increasing Diversity in the Order of Canada
The OSGG plays a vital role in supporting the governor general in recognizing, promoting and cultivating excellence among Canadians to strengthen our national identity, unity and pride. Through the administration of Canadian honours—notably the Order of Canada—the OSGG highlights the diverse and exceptional contributions of individuals from across the country.
To maintain the relevance and integrity of these honours, it is essential that they continue to reflect the full diversity of Canadian society. As part of its modernization initiatives, the OSGG has partnered with the Privy Council Office’s Impact and Innovation Unit and the Rideau Hall Foundation to apply behavioural science insights and methods to increase both awareness of and diversity within nominations to the Order of Canada.
By identifying and addressing behavioural barriers, the project seeks to encourage a broader range of Canadians to participate in the nomination process. Once implemented, this initiative will help ensure the Order of Canada continues to embody the richness of Canadian contributions, fostering a stronger sense of shared identity and trust in national institutions.
ISSN 1927-5870
Catalogue No.: SO1E-PDF
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (2025).