Statement of Independence

The Canada Safety Council is an independent, knowledge-based, charitable organization dedicated to the cause of safety. We provide national leadership in safety through information, education and collaboration.

Like most not-for-profit organizations, we regularly approach the private sector for funding. Companies and industry associations may sponsor initiatives related to their interests. Corporate philanthropy enables the Canada Safety Council to fulfil its mission while at the same time helping the sponsor achieve compatible business objectives. However, we have never and will never place the interests of any industry above public safety. We take into account information from a wide spectrum of experts and stakeholders in the overall context of the public good.

Our mandate is to serve as a credible third party acting on the sole basis of our commitment to safety for Canadians. We do not accept funding that is conditional on taking a stand contrary to the best interests of Canadians.

By maintaining a diversified revenue base, we avoid conflicts of interest that might compromise our independence. Margins from training programs, magazine subscriptions, and sponsorships contribute to overhead. Corporate and individual members fund the Council’s non-revenue-generating work through annual contributions. With this support, plus a dedicated, knowledgeable staff and cost-effective operations, we fulfil our safety mandate.

Advocacy is a small part of our overall activity, with the purpose of promoting a full and reasoned consideration of an issue. We do not lobby behind the scenes, and do not put pressure on individual politicians or other organizations. The Canada Safety Council’s policy positions reflect sound research, and consultation with stakeholders, including police, insurers, industry, health and safety professionals, and others. Our role in representing safety interests is to help create laws and countermeasures that address clearly identified problems, are based on well-researched evidence and can be enforced.

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