The House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance (FINA) has opened up the annual pre-budget consultations, an opportunity for the space community to get their ideas in front of the influential committee.
The consultation is open to all Canadians as individuals or through their organization. While the Canadian Space Agency regularly consults with stakeholders, this is a different opportunity to take ideas directly to members of the committee.
The opportunity can be used to present new ideas and how they might contribute to the economy and benefit all Canadians. The opportunity can also be used to reinforce an idea the committee might be aware of, but perhaps don’t have enough information.
At last years consultations the newly formed Canadian Space Resources Association took the opportunity to present a brief on space resources. Other briefs on the space topic were also submitted.
Individuals and organizations have until Saturday, 8 October 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time to submit written briefs. Some organizations will have the opportunity to present their briefs to the committee. Those interested in presenting to the committee should make it known to the Committee Clerk. As well, sources tell SpaceQ they can also try backchannels in hope of securing an invitation.
In a press release the Committee stated:
“I am very pleased as the Chair of the House Finance Committee to be announcing the pre-budget consultations in advance of the 2023 federal budget,” said Mr. Peter Fonseca, M.P. for Mississauga East—Cooksville. “Each year, the Committee welcomes the opportunity to hear directly from Canadians as part of this important process, and once again, we invite individuals and organizations to provide a written brief with their priorities and proposals for the forthcoming budget.”
“The deadline for submitting written briefs through the Committee’s website is no later than Saturday, 8 October 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Written briefs must be no longer than 2,000 words and should adhere to the following template. All text contained in the written brief, including – but not limited to – graphs, quotes, images and footnotes will count towards the limit of 2,000 words. Only one written brief per organization or individual will be accepted. Written briefs that do not meet these requirements may not be considered by the Committee. Following translation, the written briefs will be posted on the Committee’s website.”
“On behalf of Finance Committee members, the Committee Clerk will extend invitations to selected individuals and organizations in the fall to appear before the Committee. All those who submit a written brief will be considered as having made a request to appear. Pending House of Commons approval, the Committee intends to hold hearings in Ottawa as well as the following cities: Charlottetown, Halifax, Fredericton, Québec, Toronto, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Victoria and Whitehorse.”