Office of the Secretary to the Governor General at a Glance

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 identity, unity and pride.

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, and is supported by an assistant secretary, who provides senior leadership and direction to both programs and internal services.

The operations teams are divided into distinct branches, divisions and directorates:

The Events, Visitor Services and Programs Branch supports the governor general in connecting with Canadians through public events and visits. Through its visitor and interpretation programs, the branch also shares the history of our institution with tens of thousands of Canadians and international visitors who come annually to Rideau Hall, in Ottawa, and the Citadelle, in Québec. In addition, the branch is responsible for the governor general’s programs in Canada and abroad.

The Official Residences Branch oversees the OSGG’s security and accommodations portfolio, as well as household and hospitality services, ensuring that both Rideau Hall and the Citadelle are safe and well-maintained environments. This branch also ensures that transportation services are provided for the governor general and spouse. Finally, this branch supports the governor general in their role as commander-in-chief of Canada, through the military assistant and aides-de-camp.

The Chancellery of Honours coordinates the bestowing of national honours and awards that recognize deserving individuals. It brings to light stories of dedication, achievement, success and bravery that unfold in our communities. In partnership with dozens of organizations, the Chancellery administers all aspects of the Canadian Honours System. It is also home to the Canadian Heraldic Authority, which creates and records heraldic emblems in Canada, thereby contributing to the richness of our national identity.

The Human Resources Directorate supports the people who work for the governor general. The Directorate fosters a healthy, respectful and inclusive environment where employees are empowered to bring their true selves to work, while also providing strategic advice and solutions to management.

The Communications & Public Affairs Branch amplifies and communicates the work of the governor general at home and abroad, and provides strategic communications advice and services.

The Information Management & Information Technology Division assures the smooth operation of physical and electronic communications and records. The team assures the security and effectiveness of all technological tools, maintains physical records for each governor general’s mandate (dating back to 1867), and supports modern electronic records management.

The Finance Division, including Materiel Management and Procurement, provides financial direction, advice and oversight, assuring the responsible use of public funds.

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.

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Building New Relationships and Traditions

The 2023–2024 fiscal period coincided with the third year of Governor General Mary Simon’s mandate—a year marked by historic changes and the renewal of an important partnership.

Historic Change in Sovereign

• In honour of the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Their Excellencies the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, and Mr. Whit Fraser undertook an official visit to the United Kingdom.
• This occasion also included a historic meeting between the Crown and national Indigenous leaders from across Canada.

New Canadian Crown

• Immediately prior to his Coronation, His Majesty The King authorized the creation of a new form of the Royal Crown emblem for use in Canada, which had been designed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority. The new Canadian Crown, the first of its kind outside the United Kingdom, was created to represent Canada’s diversity and includes Indigenous symbols. His Majesty also approved several other Royal emblems developed by the CHA, such as the Sovereign’s Flag for Canada, the Coronation emblem and the Coronation Medal (see below).

Creation of the King Charles III Coronation Medal

• To deliver a first-ever Canadian Coronation medal program, the OSGG identified and activated a network of close to 700 nominating partners who will propose the 30 000 recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Partners include federal parliamentarians, provincial and territorial jurisdictions, viceregal representatives, a broad spectrum of non-governmental and charitable organizations, and national entities like the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

I have often said that reconciliation is not one act, nor does it have an end date. It is a process we build on, piece by piece. It is a path we must walk together, all of us—Indigenous, non-Indigenous, the Crown. And while we know words are important, it is through our actions that we can make the most difference. I will continue to encourage all Canadians, as well as the Crown, to take action on reconciliation.

Highlights of 2023-2024

• Her Excellency recognized more than 12 000 deserving individuals through the Canadian Honours System.
• She visited 16 cities and communities across Canada.
• She received letters of credence from 25 foreign heads of mission.
• Her Excellency represented Canada abroad in the United Kingdom.
• Her Excellency welcomed His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, and accompanied him to the Northwest Territories.
• On behalf of the Governor General, Justice Karakatsanis, Deputy to the Governor General of Canada, hosted the President of the Slovak Republic during her State Visit to Canada.

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Representing the Crown in Canada

As the representative of the Crown in Canada, the governor general exercises constitutional duties and acts as a safeguard of our parliamentary democracy. As such, the governor general is non-partisan and apolitical. One of the governor general’s most important constitutional duties is to ensure Canada always has a prime minister and a government in place that has the confidence of Parliament. Also, by granting assent, the governor general plays a critical role in parliamentary bills becoming law.

In fact, I am inspired by all the delegates from Canada and the Commonwealth nations—extraordinary people who are making change happen in their communities every day. Thank you for all that you do and for representing your country at this historic event.

The OSGG supported the Governor General in fulfilling her constitutional duties, which included:

• Swearing in new members of the Canadian ministry; and
• Signing official documents, including Orders-in-Council, Instruments of Advice, bills, proclamations, commissions, agréments for foreign heads of mission, letters of credence and letters of recall.

Representing Canada at Home and Abroad

In 2023-2024, the Governor General focused on exercising her role as the representative of the Crown through engagement with international partners in areas of mutual interest, such as reconciliation and the environment.

It is vital that we engage in face-to-face diplomacy and dialogue so that we can better understand each other, our challenges and the co-operation opportunities ahead of us. Already, we are working to enhance the bonds between our peoples.

Governor General Mary Simon represented Canada by:

• Conducting bilateral meetings with the presidents of the United States of America, Ukraine and the Republic of Korea, and with the Premier of Greenland;
• Receiving the presidents of Germany and Iceland in Canada; and
• Accepting letters of credence from 25 foreign heads of mission.

Spotlight on the North

The 2023-2024 period saw a marked focus on the environment through the lens of climate change in the North. Her Excellency joined German President Steinmeier on a working visit to Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, where she promoted sustainable development and fostered scientific exchanges through diplomacy. She also highlighted the importance of Indigenous languages and knowledge, and the empowerment of Arctic youth, in addressing the impact of climate change on northern communities.

It is vital for our countries and our planet that we listen to Indigenous knowledge and we witness what is happening in the North in particular. You will see first-hand the devastating effects of climate change on communities, on people and on their way of life. Our landscapes are telling us stories, and we can learn from them, and from each other, if we take the time to listen.

Her Excellency shone a light on the importance of the North by:

• Joining German President Steinmeier on a working visit to the Northwest Territories;
• Hosting a series of events marking the State Visit of the President of Iceland;
• Travelling to Alaska for the Arctic Winter Games to support Canadian athletes and to promote dialogue and diplomacy among Arctic nations;
• Delivering remarks at the 10^th anniversary of Connected North, which provides equitable virtual learning opportunities to students and teachers in remote communities; and
• Commemorating Nunavut’s 25^th anniversary as a territory during an official visit.

Why is it important for people to see the North—or, better yet, to experience the North? Because that is where you will see, first-hand, communities working together to face the challenges of the future in very tangible ways. It is here that we see the devastating effects of climate change on communities, on economies, on people and on their way of life.

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Encouraging Excellence

Excellence is measured through the diverse talent, courage and dedication of the people who make us proud.

During the 2023-2024 period, more large-scale recognition ceremonies were held; as a result, twice as many recipients were recognized compared to the previous year.

Today, we recognize individuals who have made an extraordinary contribution to our society. A group of individuals who, through dedication and ajuinnata—perseverance—make our communities and our country better every day. At the same time, we must also acknowledge that work remains to ensure that Canadian honours better reflect the full diversity of our country.

The Governor General recognized extraordinary Canadians by:

• Celebrating more than 12 000 Canadians through the Order of Canada, Meritorious Service Decorations, Decorations for Bravery, the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers and Exemplary Service Medals;
• Presenting more than 800 honours insignia in person, while presiding over 20 honours and awards events;
• Presenting Canada’s foremost distinctions in the arts, science and humanities, including the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards, the Governor General’s Visual and Media Arts Awards, the Governor General’s History Awards, the Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case, and the Michener Awards for Meritorious Public Service Journalism; and
• Overseeing the Canadian Heraldic Authority (CHA), which continues to build up a distinct national identity expressed in visual symbols. During this period, the CHA granted or registered more than 200 emblems, including those of the Rainbow Veterans of Canada, the Ville de Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, and His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, in Brantford, Ontario.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Chancellery of Honours is conducting a review of the public honours nomination process to ensure it is efficient, accessible and reflective of Canada's diversity. The review aims to identify biases, address barriers and explore opportunities to enhance communication about the availability of honours, particularly among under-represented groups.

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Serving as Commander-In-Chief

As commander-in-chief of Canada, the governor general offers support and encouragement to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, their families and loved ones, while helping Canadians recognize the military’s past, present and future contributions to our country and the world.

I have seen your dedicated service to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada first-hand, and admire how you support each other through very difficult circumstances. You represent our country with honour, while exemplifying the military values of loyalty, integrity, courage, excellence, inclusion and accountability.

As commander-in-chief, Governor General Mary Simon supported the Canadian Armed Forces by:

• Presenting a new standard to the 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron at a ceremony at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, Quebec;
• Approving eight new RCAF squadron standards and seven new badges for Canadian Armed Forces units, including HMCS William Hall;
• Rededicating the National Naval Reserve Monument at HMCS Carleton in Ottawa, Ontario;
• Receiving the first poppy of the National Poppy Campaign at Rideau Hall;
• Presiding over the National Remembrance Day Ceremony and hosting an event honouring the 2023 National Silver Cross Mother at Rideau Hall;
• Presenting scrolls to the newly appointed general officers and flag officers in Ottawa, Ontario—a first since 2019; and
• Meeting with Canadian Armed Forces members in various locations across the country and in Anchorage, Alaska, U.S.A.

Reconciliation

• Her Excellency attended the Rendez-Vous 25 in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik (Quebec), to mark the 25^th anniversary of the Junior Canadian Ranger program. The Canadian Rangers and Junior Canadian Rangers are an essential part of the Canadian Armed Forces and contribute to our security and sovereignty. They help foster understanding, respect and reconciliation in northern and remote communities across Canada.

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Connecting with Canadians

The Governor General connected with Canadians from all walks of life. Her official visits to Canadian communities, from coast to coast to coast, allowed her to highlight key issues of her mandate, including the environment, the resilience of youth, Indigenous communities, digital respect and mental health. These visits also provided unique opportunities for her to listen to and engage with ordinary and extraordinary Canadians.

I cannot forget the bakery offering solace through donated meals; the knitting clubs weaving warmth for those seeking refuge; the school rallying for a student in the throes of a health crisis; the northern organization salvaging food for those in need; and food banks across the country finding new ways to help their communities. Their stories are poignant examples of the Canadian spirit, and show us that we can each embody ajuinnata, which, in Inuktitut, means perseverance. Never giving up. Committing ourselves to action, no matter how daunting the situation may be. In this way, kindness—far from being an accidental act—emerges as a powerful and purposeful choice in the face of adversity.

Governor General Mary Simon connected with Canadians by:

• Engaging with numerous Indigenous communities through her regional visits, reinforcing her commitment to reconciliation as a focal point of her mandate;
• Continuing her kindness calls to individuals making a difference in their communities;
• Receiving 2023 Voices of Youth Indigenous leaders at Rideau Hall;
• Fostering understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples through participation in large-scale youth events;
• Meeting with young women and girls enrolled in the Émeraude program offered by Motivaction Jeunesse, in Québec, Quebec;
• Visiting the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, a museum and gathering place that serves to protect and promote Black culture in the province;
• Meeting with Ukrainian refugees, visiting a women’s shelter and engaging in reconciliation activities in Manitoba; and
• Honouring Indigenous history, reconciliation and hope for change at the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation ceremony and raising of the Survivors’ Flag on Parliament Hill.

Digital Respect

Her Excellency launched a digital respect strategy to address online violence and toxic social media discourse, particularly the impact on women, girls and people from equity-deserving groups and on their participation in civil society and political leadership.

To make the issue tangible to Canadians, with real impacts on individuals, democracy and equality, Her Excellency:

• Delivered the keynote address at the Universities Canada Fall AGM, calling on universities to build networks of resilience and create safe digital spaces
• Engaged in media interviews in support of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence; and
• Participating in a fireside chat with Lisa LaFlamme at the Equal Voice Gala, which focused on impacts of online abuse targeting women and girls and the importance of inclusive leadership.

Spotlight on Mental Health

The 2023-2024 period saw a marked focus on mental health, through the establishment of a mental health working group tasked with identifying the areas in which the Governor General was uniquely placed and could have the greatest impact on fostering mental health and wellness in Canada.

The group developed a strategy with two primary objectives:

• Draw attention to the mental health and wellness needs of diverse communities in Canada who frequently experience crisis and trauma, particularly in remote, rural and northern communities, through a deliberate focus on inspiring trust and fostering hope; and
• Connect Canadians, practitioners, partners and people with lived experience from coast to coast to coast to create a network of support and best practices.

Future annual reports will provide further details from sessions of the Mental Health Learning and Listening Tour, which will take place at various locations across the country.

In addition to these events, the Governor General shed light on the importance of mental health by:

• Visiting the Isuarsivik Regional Recovery Centre in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik (Quebec), which is the only recovery centre in the region, and which delivers holistic and culturally sensitive healing programs for Nunavimmiut to enhance their inner strength and well-being;
• Visiting Laing House, in Nova Scotia, where youth with mental illnesses are empowered through innovative, art-based programming and peer support;
• Joining the President of Iceland at the Round Table on Youth Health and Well-being, hosted by the Embassy of Iceland and the Public Health Agency of Canada, Iceland’s Planet Youth and Global Affairs Canada;
• Visiting Serene View Ranch in Prince Edward Island, a program that uses equine-assisted therapy to address mental health issues, trauma and PTSD; and
• Visiting the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto.

A young woman approached me and asked if that word … if ajuinnata … applied to her and to her struggles with mental health. I told her yes. And now I share that word with you because it applies here as well. There are many challenges we face, but the only way to face them is head on, with hope and with ajuinnata. No matter where we come from, what languages we speak or what we believe, we all need a place to find connections. We need to feel confident that people will take care of us. It is human nature to seek out these places where we can feel safe and be at home.

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The Official Residences: Welcoming Canadians

Visits to Rideau Hall continued to increase following the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the public’s renewed enthusiasm for visiting the residences. In the 2023-24 period, more than 43 000 visitors came to Rideau Hall for a mix of guided and self-guided tours, as well as official functions and special events. The Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec hosted a total of 10 500 visitors.

Activities held at Rideau Hall:

• Learning and Healing Through Art: A special discussion and interactive art activity with a residential school Survivor, an intergenerational Survivor, an Indigenous artist, the Governor General, and local high school students to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
• National Indigenous Peoples Day: Public art by Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers was installed on the porte-cochère of the Queen’s Entrance to the residence. The creation encouraged visitors to reflect on the difficult history of the residential schools and to celebrate Indigenous communities and culture.
• Telling Canadian Stories through Film: Newcomers to Canada were invited to film screenings at Rideau Hall, which were followed by discussions with the filmmakers and the Governor General. This initiative showcased Canadian excellence in film, and provided space for Canadians to connect and collaborate. It highlighted the Governor General’s mandate priorities of diversity and inclusion, and reconciliation.
• Coronation of King Charles III: The doors of Rideau Hall were opened and 3 000 visitors participated in special programming and viewed displays of new Canadian Royal emblems developed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
• Rideau Hall Skating Rink: From January to March, the historical rink was re-opened to the general public, making the rink more accessible to a wider group of visitors.

Activities held at the Citadelle:

• Educational programming for students held in partnership with the Musée Royal 22^e Régiment and Parks Canada.
• Decorations for Bravery ceremony on September 19, 2023. The Decorations for Bravery are among Canada’s most respected and prestigious civilian honours.

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Partnerships

When priorities and required expertise are in alignment, partnerships can amplify the work of the Governor General. In collaboration with the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF), the OSGG identified commonalities in RHF programming, infrastructure and resources to develop opportunities for joint work related to the Governor General’s priorities. This re-established relationship with the RHF has been fundamental in driving forward key initiatives on reconciliation, diversity and inclusion in public honours, and mental health. Through funding, networking and leveraging expertise, the RHF is an eminent partner in fulfilling an ambitious second half of this mandate.

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Conclusion

In a year marked by a historic change in Sovereign, the OSGG supported the Governor General in her constitutional and ceremonial duties, and showcased extraordinary individuals, organizations and communities from across the country and around the world.

The Office fostered meaningful engagement that reflected Governor General Simon’s mandate priorities: the environment, diversity and inclusion, reconciliation, digital respect and mental health.

Through the Canadian Honours System, more than 12 000 Canadians were recognized for their achievements, while the OSGG addressed backlogs in its recognition program.

The official residences welcomed thousands of visitors, showcasing Canada’s history, architecture and art.

The OSGG cemented key partnerships, leveraging expertise and laying the groundwork for future successes.

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Annex 1: Operational Summaries

Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (OSGG) operations

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 $25,621,835.*

* For further details on these departmental and agency expenditures, please contact the organizations involved, or visit their respective websites.

• The National Capital Commission (NCC) is responsible for the preservation, maintenance and capital construction projects for all official residences located in the National Capital Region, including Rideau Hall.
• The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) provides support in matters related to the security of and personal protection services for the governor general, domestically and abroad.
• The Department of National Defence (DND) provides logistical support and transportation for the governor general in an official capacity.
• Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) provides the OSGG with accommodation and logistical support for the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec and the Chancellery of Honours.
• Global Affairs Canada (GAC) advises the governor general on all matters related to foreign policy, and funds activities related to incoming and outgoing international visits, and activities undertaken at the request of the prime minister.
• Canadian Heritage (PCH) is the lead department for such activities as Royal tours, State funerals, national memorial services and special anniversary celebrations.

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