WD's Corporate Business Plan provides an integrated overview of the department's strategic outcomes, priorities and expected performance objectives for 2009-2010, as set out in our annual Report on Plans and Priorities. As well, it articulates the strategic direction and planning framework needed to ensure those outcomes are achieved.

The Access to Information Act gives Canadian citizens, permanent residents and any person and corporation present in Canada a right of access to information contained in government records, subject to certain specific and limited exceptions.

Western Economic Diversification Canada's (WD) Annual Report to Parliament describes how WD administered its responsibilities under these Acts during each financial year.

The Privacy Act extends to individuals the right of access to information about themselves held by the government, subject to specific and limited exceptions. This Act also protects individuals' privacy by preventing others from having access to their personal information and gives individuals substantial control over its collection, use and disclosure.

Western Economic Diversification Canada's (WD) Annual Report to Parliament describes how WD administered its responsibilities under these Acts during each financial year.

WD's multi-year Risk Based Audit and Risk Based Evaluation plans are prepared in accordance with Treasury Board policies and are approved by WD’s Deputy Minister.

WD's five-year evaluation plan for 2009-2014 will achieve 100% of evaluation coverage of all WD direct program spending during this period, as specified in the updated Treasury Board evaluation policy. Evaluation projects and engagements included in the plan were based on a combination of risk assessment, needs assessment and a consultation, analysis and prioritization process. The evaluation projects will provide a neutral assessment of the relevance, cost-effectiveness and success of WD's program spending.

WD's three-year Risk Based Audit Plan describes the audits planned for 2009-2012. The process for selecting and prioritizing audits was based on risk exposure, risk significance, and the quality of internal controls to mitigate risks. The audits will independently assess the department’s governance, risk management and control practices, and provide assurances there on. Where applicable, the audits will also provide recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of those practices.