Parliamentary Committee Notes: Requests for Federal Assistance (RFA) since January 2020

Date: May 9, 2022
Classification: Unclassified
Fully releasable (ATIP)? Yes
Branch / Agency: EMPB

Proposed Response:

Responsive lines

Financial Implications

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the importance of having surge capacity readily available, and Government of Canada investments have supported organizations like the Canadian Red Cross (CRC) to respond to COVID-19 and other large-scale emergencies.

The intersection of cyclical natural disasters, such as floods, wildfires and atmospheric river events, with the COVID-19 pandemic presents additional unique challenges to Provinces/Territories (PTs), First Nations and municipalities across Canada that are responsible for managing responses to emergencies within their jurisdictions.

Public Safety Canada is working with federal, provincial and territorial partners, through the Government Operations Centre (GOC), to ensure ongoing coordinated responses to COVID-19, natural disasters or other incidents. The GOC is supporting the Public Health Agency of Canada, which is the federal government lead for the response to COVID-19.

Since the start of the pandemic, the Government of Canada has responded to 188 RFAs. Of those RFAs, 77 provided support to First Nations communities, 17 provided support to federal departments, and 94 provided support to P/Ts.

Current Deployments

An RFA was received on May 4, 2022, from the Province of Ontario requesting the assistance of CAF, including Canadian Rangers, for transport, personnel, and facilities to support FN communities of Kashechewan, Fort Albany and Attawapiskat. The RFA was approved for CAF Rangers who were deployed on May 7, 2022, to support the communities with ongoing evacuation activities. The RFA will close when the evacuation is complete or May 20, 2022; whichever condition is met first.

Past Deployments

The CAF CRs been supporting the community since February 16, 2022. An RFA from the Province of ON was received and approved on March 16. As of March 29, there were 70 active cases of COVID-19. An extension request was received and approved on March 30, 2022 until April 13, 2022. The RFA expired on April 13, 2022.

An RFA was received and approved on March 18, 2022 for CAF support with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential services. An extension request was received on March 31, 2022 via the ON RO for continued CAF support, including the support of the Humanitarian Workforce Program (SARVAC). The request for extension was approved on April 1, 2022. The RFA was closed early on April 8, 2022 due to a significant drop in active cases.

An RFA was received on January 28 for continued support for LTCFs and RHs. RFA and CRC funding were approved on February 5. CRC completed three assessments, and allocated EPC and Support Aide teams as required. As of March 23, there are 46 (+1) LTCHs and 38 (+4) RHs in active outbreak. The CRC was present on two(2) sites. The RFA closed as scheduled on March 31st.

The RFA was received on January 6 for CRC support to five identified mass vaccination clinics across the Province until March 31, 2022. The  RFA was approved by MEP on January 12. As of February 24, support was scaled down to 50% due to low uptake of appointments. The RFA closed as scheduled on March 31.

On November 10, the RFA was received and approved to support Fly-in FN communities for the third dose and vaccination among children aged 5-11. The RFA will remain active until the province confirms that resources are no longer required. On 23 Feb, following discussions with all implicated federal partners, it was determined that the RFA will remain open until 31 Mar 2022 in the case that CRs are required to provide surge support for any additional clinics that are scheduled. The RFA expired on March 31, 2021 as scheduled.

The GNWT request was for one MHU – Oxygen Concentrator package with generators for use at the Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. O2 system is operational. As of October 21, it was the primary source of oxygen for the hospital. GNWT is working on a longer-term solution. Options to permanently provide the equipment are being discussed. A new RFA was received on March 25 but was no longer required as PSPC and the GNWT had completed the sale of the Oxygen Concentrator system. 

A new RFA was submitted on March 01 and approved on March 2 for continued CR support to the community. On March 01, Weeneebayko Area Health Authority was reporting 133 active cases in the community, 128 high-risk contacts and 62 households affected.

On February 24, a new RFA was received for continuation of the current health human resources support, primarily for acute care, emergency services and ICU resources. The new RFA was approved on March 01. The period of support will be four (2) weeks, beginning on March 01, 2022, until March 14, 2022, with the possibility of an additional two (2) week extension, pending a reassessment of immediate and upcoming needs and availability of personnel.

On February 24, RFA was received for CAF support with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The RFA was approved on February 25. The support from CR’s was requested for an initial two-week period from February 25 until March 10, with the possibility of a (1)  two-week extension based on community assessment. As of March 01, there were eight (8) CR’s providing support. 

On February 16, RFA was received and approved for assistance with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The support from CAF in the form of CR’s was requested for an initial two-week period that will begin on February 17 until March 2, with the possibility of a two-week extension based on community assessment. On March 01, the extension was received and approved for continued CAF support from March 03 to March 16, 2022.

An RFA was received on February 9 and approved on February 10 for support with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The support from CAF was requested for an initial two-week period from February 10 to February 23, with the possibility of one two-week extension based on reassessment of needs. On February 23 an extension request was received and approved. CAF to continued support until March 10, 2022. 

An RFA was received on February 7 and approved on February 9 for support with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The support from CAF in the form of CR’s was requested for an initial two-week period from February 11 to February 24, with the possibility of one two-week extension based on reassessment of needs. On February 22, an extension request was received and approved on February 23  support  from February 25 until March 11, 2022. 

On December 31, 2021, NU submitted an RFA for various health services (e.g., remote contact tracing, HHR, techs, testing, respiratory therapists, etc.), support to correctional facilities and additional policing support. The RFA was approved on January 14, 2022. On February 18, the Territory submitted an extension. The extension was approved on February 24 for continued support until March 21, 2022.

On November 10, the RFA was received and approved to support Fly-in FN communities for the third dose and vaccination among children aged 5-11. The RFA will remain active until the province confirms that resources are no longer required. On 23 Feb, following discussions with all implicated federal partners, it was determined that the RFA will remain open until 31 Mar 2022 in the case that CRs are required to provide surge support for any additional clinics that are scheduled. The RFA expected to expired on March 31, 2021 as scheduled.

The GNWT request was for one MHU – Oxygen Concentrator package with generators for use at the Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. O2 system is operational. As of October 21, it was the primary source of oxygen for the hospital. GNWT is working on a longer-term solution. The RFA expected to expired on March 31, 2021 as scheduled.

An RFA for contact tracing (CT) support was received on January 14 and approved January 20. The RFA was for an initial period of six weeks with the possibility of one two-week extension based on reassessment of needs. The CRC provided 1 Operations Manager; 1 Supervisor; and 4 contact tracers to supplement the NWT’s own resources in tracking positive cases and locating close contacts. EPC ended on February 25. The RFA expire as schedule on March 3, 2022.

On January 28, PS received an RFA from Manitoba for continuation of the current support with additional acute care and ICU resources. CRC had confirmed their ability to provide up to five (5) HHRs, primary with nursing profiles, for ICU, emergency room, acute care and general nursing. The request was approved on January 31 for a support period  of 4 weeks, from February 1 to February 25, 2022. On March 01, the new RFA for continued CRC HHR Support was approved.

The RFA was received on January 31 and approved on February 1 for assistance to ensure crises management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The support from CAF in the form of Canadian Rangers was requested for an initial two-week period with the possibility of one two-week extension based on reassessment of needs. On February 11, the Province submitted a request to exercise the extension under  this RFA. The request for extension was approved on February 14 for continued support until March 2. Since no further extensions were possible under the current RFA expiring March 02, PEOC has submitted a new RFA for similar supports.

An RFA was received on January 29 and approved on January 31 for support with crisis management, coordination and providing the community with essential necessities and services. The support from CAF in the form of Canadian Rangers was requested for an initial two-week period with the possibility of one two-week extension based on reassessment of needs. A request for extension was received on February 11 and approved on February 12 for continued support until February 27, 2022. CAF support was terminated as scheduled on February 27, 2022, with no further extension requested.

On February 16, RFA was received for logistical support from the CAF to the operations on Parliament Hill for the convoy-related demonstrations in the City of Ottawa. The RFA was approved on February 18. On February 19, CAF assistance in the form of 1,200 rations was provided to PPS, which concluded this RFA.

RFA was received on December 21, 2021 for CAF logistical & medical resources, and other federal resources to contribute to accelerated mass vaccination operations. Initial 30-day period started on January 3 until February 2, 2022 with up to two two-week extensions. QC submitted a request for the first of two possible extensions; the extension was approved by PS on January 25 for continued support until February 15. On January 28, the Province and CAF coordinated a progressive disengagement of the CAF at certain vaccination sites. It was confirmed that five vaccination sites demobilized between January 28 to February 15. By February 9, CAF drew down to four vaccination sites in different regions of Quebec. On February 14, QC confirmed that it would not seek further extension. The three remaining sites closed by end of business on the last day. The RFA closed out on February 15.

On January 14, RFA received and approved to assist the FN community as it deals with a COVID outbreak. The RFA is for an initial period of two weeks with the possibility of one 2-week extension based on reassessment of needs. As of January 20, 10 Canadian Rangers remain active in the community since January 15. CRC supports may be provided through a bilateral arrangement outside the RFA process. On January 27, the Province submitted an extension request for continued CAF support until February 11. The extension request was approved on January 28. On February 8,  Chief David Nakogee of Attawapiskat First Nation confirmed with the PEOC that the support of the Canadian Rangers will no longer be required after Friday, February 11, 2022 when the RFA and their deployment is set to end. 

RFA submitted on December 29, 2021, for a vaccination clinic and 500 to 1,000 doses a day over 5-6 weeks. On January 5, 2022, NS officially accepted IMG resources. RFA was approved on January 9. As of January 18, the CRC is providing 18 resources to NS’ immunization program. On February 4, the Province and CRC closed the clinic; confirmation of termination was made via email on February 3rd.

RFA extension  to support augmentation of health human resources in Ontario long term care facilities was approved on 6 October. On 24 November, the Government of ON submitted a revised RFA extension request which was approved on 26 November to provide support until 31 January, 2022, with no additional extensions. CRC supports available under this RFA have been assigned until the end of the RFA (31 Jan); a waitlist of facilities seeking CRC assessments is being compiled. As of February 2nd, CRC has demobilized from the 3 active sites until the new RFA (submitted 31 Jan) and funding is approved. On 5 Feb, the CRC funding was approved for an additional RFA by DM EMC.

RFA received on  December 12, 2021, and approved on December 17 by DM EMC for up to 8 personnel for four weeks with the possibility of one two-week extension. Request for was approved on 12 January to provide support until January 31, 2022.  As of January 11, there were six CRC nurses working within MB Health. Profiles continue to be offered to the Province for acceptance and placement, and CRC will continue to seek and offer additional resources as they become available in order to work towards the up to 8 people deployed at any given time. This RFA will expire at midnight on January 31.

RFA for CAF infrastructure in Ottawa was received on January 28 and approved January 29. The RFA is to utilize CAF infrastructure in Ottawa stage the Ottawa Police Service’s public order units alongside partnering law enforcement agencies regarding a large demonstration happening in the NCR. The RFA is for an initial period of two (2) days day with the possibility to extend based on an assessment of the situation. As of Feb 1st, CAF has closed the staging area and the RFA will end. There was a possibility of reopening on February 5th to assist, but ultimately it was decided to forego this route.

RFA for support to Bearskin Lake FN received on 6 January, 2022. The  request included humanitarian support, general duties and wellness checks. CAF, ISC and PS conducted a virtual Recce on 7 January. The RFA is for an initial two-week period from 9 January, 2022 until 23 January, 2022, with the possibility of a one-week extension based on reassessment to be conducted by 21 January, 2022.. On 13 January, a CAF Leadership Team perform recce. As of 21 January, 18 Canadian Rangers remain active in the community, providing support with critical supply delivery tasks to homes in isolation. RFA closed on 23 January.

On 14 Jan, an RFA was received and approved for ALEA. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador requested CAF logistical support in regards to an RCMP investigation (deceased person) near Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The duration of assistance in the form of assets; tents and heating equipment is expected to be for 1 or 2 days. CAF stood down January 17, RFA closed on January 17, 2021

Past Deployments – RFA Received in 2021

RFA received and approved December 20, 2021 under the Omnibus for two weeks from December 20, 2021 to January 3, 2022 with possibility of an additional 2-week extension
CAF Rangers providing logistical and general support (humanitarian operation) in the municipality of Bonne-Espérance experiencing a COVID outbreak. CAF Rangers deployed on December 20, 2021. A total of 11 personnel supported this RFA. Termination letter was received from QC MPS on 2 January 2022. RFA closed on January, 3, 2022.

New RFA for support after December 1 was received on November 30. CAF approved to support until December 22. Late December 10, GNU advised that the “do not consume” water advisory had been lifted and that CAF support could be discontinued. CAF stopped water production and proceeded with redeployment preparations. Water already produced was provided to the City. RFA closed December 10.

RFA received & approved November 25, 2021, for immediate deployment of military or other federal resources, including high volume air assets. On November 29, 33 CAF personnel deployed: 23 personnel in a Land Task Force and 2x CH-146 helicopters, 2 x Liaison Officers working with provincial Emergency management officials, 8 x personnel in a Recce team conducting reconnaissance of road and other infrastructure. Normal and full operations via the Port aux Basques on December 2, 2021. NOTE that Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) assisted under their own mandate to facilitate Canada Post and other duties to support the province. RFA closed on December 2.

Provision of air support to facilitate the evacuation of persons affected by flooding, assistance to vulnerable, stranded or in-distress persons affected by floods. CAF began deploying an Immediate Response Unit (IRU) reconnaissance team on November 17. On November 18, 9 members from Edmonton’s Third Canadian Division IRU were active in BC to plan and coordinate relief effort, By November 30, more than 700 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel deployed to support domestic operations in BC, including Land and Air Task Forces.
EMBC termination of CAF support received at PS, effective December 6. Approx. 120 CAF personnel remained on stand-by for rapid deployment in the Lower Mainland for the duration of the RFA (December 17).  EMBC termination letter received on December 16. RFA closed on December 17 as scheduled.

RFA received and approved November 16, 2021, for deployment Canadian Rangers from NWT patrols as required for an initial two (2) week period from November 17 until December 1, with the possibility of two (2) two-week extensions based on a reassessment on November 24, prior to the expiry of the initial period.  PS received on November 26 and approved extension on November 30. The GNWT advised that an extension up to December 5 will suffice. CAF approved and stood down on December 5 and RFA was closed.

RFA received on October 20, 2021, and approved on October 22. CAF provided water purification production and limited assistance with the coordination and delivery of water to the people of Iqaluit. Assets were provided until November 17, 2021, with a possible 2-week extension. CAF Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit (ROWPU) equipment was operational on the Grinnell River. CAF water test results November 8 (to standard). The city’s main water treatment plant required third party verification from a company in Ottawa prior to reactivation.
RFA extension approved on November 16 for CAF support until December 1. This RFA expired on December 1, 2021. A new RFA (RFA0091) was received on November 30.

On October 18, 2021, an RFA was received from SK ICU HHR.

CRC approved supports (up to 20 members) contract signature and Indemnification completed November 8, 1 going to Swift Current and 6 going to Yorkton. RFA extension approved on November 24 to support until December 9. RFA closed on December 9 as scheduled.

CAF Support (HHR) and aeromedical support. CAF deployed 6 nurses and elements of MMAT teams (4 nurses/4 med-techs) at Regina General Hospital on October 30. RFA extension approved on November 18. On November 25, 3 CAF nurses drew down with further gradual drawdown of CAF resources and final drawdown of all remaining support by RFA expiry December 3. RFA closed as scheduled on December 3.

RFA was approved on October 17, 2021. On October 15, the GNWT submitted an RFA for additional surge capacity for territorial Infection, Prevention Control (IPC), contact tracing and COVID-19 testing efforts. This latest RFA builds upon the two IPC specialists previously provided by PHAC and virtual contact tracing services already being delivered by StatCan under an existing agreement. CRC HHR (one operation lead and eight EPC specialists) (+1) RFA closed on November 14.

RFA approved by MIN Blair September 23, 2021. CRC proposal approved by DM EMC on October 3 and indemnification was confirmed on October 6. 8 ICU nurses completed orientation and commenced shift work at Royal Alexandra Hospital on October 7, 2021.  CAF aeromedical transport for in-province and out of province critical care patient transfer remained on 96-hour Notice to Move until RFA concluded on October 31 as scheduled. CRC HHR support provided from October 4 to October 31, 2021. CRC deployed 12 staff members.

NFLD team of 9 HHR deployed on the October 10 to support Northern Lights Regional Health Centre in Fort McMurray. Team included 4 physicians, 4 RNs and 1 NP. They planned to depart on October 27.

On October 20, Alberta confirmed that the RFA will conclude on October 31 as scheduled.

RFA approved on September 1, 2021, The Minister of PS was supportive of the RFA and sought CAF support, pursuant to subsection 273.6(2) of the National Defence Act, to support the SQ in its search for the armed individual until the operation is terminated. The duration of the support was expected to last until the search was complete or CAF asset had been relieved by other federal air assets currently not available. RFA closed on September 5, 2021.

The RFA was approved on August 30, 2021 for up to 5 CAF Rangers to support vaccination efforts until September 3. CAF supported Pikangikum First Nation with logistical and administrative support to facilitate vaccination efforts. The RFA closed as scheduled on September 3.

CAF support approved on October 14, 2021. The GNWT requested the assistance of CAF and CRC to support local communities affected with COVID-19 outbreaks. Extension#1 approved September 17 for CAF support October 1 and CRC support October 3. There were 12 CAF Rangers and 3 CAF planners. CAF stood down on October 1.
CRC support approved on September 28 to support until October 14. CRC provided 15 nurses and 2 doctors Extension#1 approved on October 12 to support until October 28. Extension #2 (final) for CRC support was approved October 27 to support until November 11. The RFA closed as scheduled on November 11.

RFA approved on August 14. RCMP requested CAF accommodations support in the form of up to 25-70 rooms to house their members at the Cadet Training Camp in Vernon, BC; and RCMP requested to set up a secure Command Post to ensure the proper storage of Police Intervention Options, including firearms, and additional equipment, in an RCMP Command Vehicle that will be parked on-site. On August 17, the RCMP transitioned personnel from the CAF facility in Vernon to hotels in the Vernon area for the short term, but the CAF facility remained an alternative location. On August 30, CAF and the RCMP confirmed that the RFA for use of the Vernon Cadet Camp for accommodations during the wildfire season has been closed.

RFA for four CAF personnel to support the GOC’s Watch Centre was approved on 06 Aug for a period of five weeks with an option to extend.  An extension request was approved by CAF Sept 15, 2021. 1 CAF personnel will continue to support the Watch until 27 Sept, 2021. RFA closed on schedule on September 27, 2021.

RFA for CAF Ranger support for a period of 2 weeks due to resurgence of cases in the community was approved on July 22, 2021. CAF supported until August 5. RFA closed on August 5.

RFA was approved July 20, 2021, for support to continue until August 10 for CAF support to mitigate the effects of wildfires, specifically Type-3 wildfire operations. The province received 108 firefighters from South Africa August 11. Manitoba had a total of 2,152 registered evacuees as of August 11. Repatriation of these communities to be completed by August 20. RFA extension was approved on August 10 for a period of 21 days to begin between August 17 and August 24. RFA closed on August 24.

RFA approved on July 20 for support to begin on July 23 to August 30. CAF support requested to mitigate the effects of wildfires, specifically Type-3 wildfire operations including mop up and monitoring operations. Approved a one-week extension on August 30 for CAF ground support from August 30 to September 5. RFA closed as scheduled on September 5, 2021.

RFA was approved on July 19, 2021 until immediate threat has passed and evacuation is no longer required. ISC provided funding for evacuation accommodations, Federal partners considered all federal assets to support the request (i.e. Safe voluntary Isolation sites). The proposed host communities; Thunder Bay, Sudbury and Timmins. The assistance was requested to continue until the evacuation was complete or until immediate threat had passed and evacuation was no longer required. On August 10, Rangers support in host communities was stood down in Sudbury and Timmins and on August 14, Rangers stood down in Thunder Bay. Province expressed desire to keep RFA open for the duration of the wildfire season. The RFA officially closed on Sept 27, 2021.

RFA received on July 14 for additional CAF airlift support to assist with the evacuation of persons in remote areas when no other means of evacuation was available. CAF provided support until August 02. A 2-week extension was approved on July 31 for support to continue until August 17. Request for extension to this RFA was received on August 15. The RFA officially closed on August 30, 2021.

RFA approved on July 11, 201. CAF as a force of last resort for airlift support for the evacuations of members from remote fly-in communities in northwestern Ontario. The assistance was requested to continue until the evacuation has been complete or until immediate threat has passed and evacuation was no longer required. Indigenous Communities were particularly vulnerable to smoke and direct effects from wildfire. CAF stood down on Sept 12, 2021.

RFA for Hatchet Lake FN on July 5, 2021. CAF support (13 x CR) for an initial period of two weeks from July 9 to July 23. Tasks included integration with Chief and Council, delivery of supplies, cleaning, and communication of public health measures. RFA extension was approved on July 21 for CAF support until August 20. The RFA closed on August 20.

RFA for CRC HHR support was approved on July 19. CRC HHR provided support until August 1, 2021, with the possibility of two, 2-week extensions for up to a total of six weeks. Second extension to the RFA for CRC support received on August 16 for support to continue until August 29. The RFA officially closed August 29.

RFA received on July 3 and CAF deployed on July 5 with airlift support to transport personnel and equipment into and out of areas affected by wildfires. Tasks included; airlift assets to move wildfire crews and equipment; 2) air resources for the emergency transportation of BC Wildfire Service personnel or contracted crews; and 3) assistance with advanced planning. Indigenous Communities were particularly vulnerable to smoke and direct effects from wildfire. A 2 week extension was approved on July 19 for CAF support to continue until August 2. A second 2-week extension was approved on Jul 31 for support to continue until August 17. A third extension was received on August 15. The RFA officially closed on August 30.

RFA start date July 5-19, 2021. CAF deployed 95 Rangers to provide support to flood mitigating efforts in and around the Yukon Southern Lakes. CAF task-tailored IRU to include manual labour assistance, welfare checks on people/properties, and assist in evacuations if required. A two- week extension was approved on July 16, for CAF support until August 2. RFA closed on August 2, CAF stood down August 3.

RFA received June 26, 2021 for the continuity of CAF support which was approved under a new RFA until July 2. Rangers provided general logistics and tent installation support for the isolation requirements of the community. RFA closed on July 2.

RFA approved June 22 to provide expertise in building and delivering a virtual TTX. The TTX report was drafted and provided to PHAC on June 30 and tasks outlined in the RFA are complete. The team is now running the Phase 1 AAR and planning the Phase 2 activities. Support CAF is actively supporting planning efforts towards Stage 3 until both parties agree that CAF support is no longer required. An extension was request and approved on July 29 for continued support. RFA officially closed on August 18.

RFA for CRC and CAF support was approved June 19, 2021. CAF Medical and GD support to operate a civilian vaccination clinic in Halifax began June 23 - July 16, 2021. CAF support began on June 23 and concluded on July 16. CRC support ended on July 16.

RFA was received and approved on June 16 for CAF support from June 16 to June 30, 2021, to provide general duty support to the community where required, to include, but not limited to, set-up of isolation facilities and temporary shelters, and the delivery of supplies, food and water. RFA officially closed on June 30.

RFA was received on June 3 and approved on June 10 for  CRC support with contact tracing in regards to an outbreak at the Mary River Mine on Baffin Island. Note: PHAC provided support under an interchange agreement for HHR support on May 11, 2021. RFA closed on July 5.

RFA approved June 4, 2021 until June 18, 2021 for Rangers’ support to community’s COVID-19 isolation mandate. An extension to the RFA was approved to June 26.

RFA approved June 4, 2021 until August 31, 2021. CAF Rangers  provided general logistics support, local coordination and administrative support to the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in up to 31 fly-in FN communities. A reassessment was completed on July 5 and confirmed that continued Ranger support was required. Operation Remote Immunity 2.0. concluded on September 3. In total, Rangers supported vaccination campaigns in 24 communities.

RFA approved May 31, 2021, for CAF Rangers to provide logistical and general support for the isolation requirements of the community. Extended until June 28. Extended again until July 12. A second CAF RFA was approved on June 16 until June 30 to provide (13 CR). Final extension was approved on July 18. CAF stood down July 26.

RFA approved May 30, 2021 and extended until June 27. 12 Rangers provided support to command post and general logistics for the isolation requirements of the community.

RFA received May 25, 2021, for CRC support. CRC deployed 6 nurses on May 28 and 4 nurses on June 7. MB requested a 4-week extension for 5 CRC nurses which was approved and support continued until July 23.

RFA received in May for CAF support to 2 Multi-purpose Medical Assistance Teams (MMAT) to Winnipeg AIA sites, 3 laboratory technologists, and CAF air biomedical evacuation capability to support critical care patient transfers. CAF completed 9 aeromedical patient transfers. Aero-medevac teams have drawn down with MMATs standing down on June 24 and CAF lab technicians support concluding on June 28. The RFA expired on June 28.

MB request for a 4-week extension for 5 CRC nurses has been approved. Support will continue until July 23. NML providing 3 lab technicians until the end of August, and there are 2 federal nurses currently on interchange until August 10. RFA concluded August 10.  PHAC cont. Provincial AIA Site 1 and AIA Site 2 amalgamated on August 23, Shared Health MB indicated that there was 9% provincial occupancy across all AIA’s.

RFA approved on May 21, 2021 for CAF to assist FNIHB nursing staff and transportation. 4 Rangers deployed. Extended until June 18 and then extended again until July 2.

RFA was approved on May 9, 2021, for CAF Rangers until June 7. The RFA closed on June 6.

RFA was approved on May 9, 2021 for CAF Rangers to provide general community support until May 18. The RFA was extended for an additional two weeks of support and the RFA concluded on June 5.

RFA approved April 30, 2021 for CRC to support up to 3 LTCFs in NB. RFA expired on June 25.

On April 24, 2021, the Minister of Municipal Affairs of the Province of Nova Scotia (the Province) requested 45-60 CAF individuals to provide immediate non-medical support in scaling up of the provincial testing operations. In consultation with CAF, it was determined that this request falls under the provisions of the Comprehensive RFA/Omnibus RFA and CAF support was approved on April 26, 2021 until May 25, 2021 with periodic reassessment(s) to confirm continued need. The RFA concluded on May 14.

RFA approved April 25, 2021 for CAF to support ON provincial healthcare including medical resources to augment medical care facilities, general duty and logistical support, and transportation of civilian healthcare providers in and out of ON. CAF stood down on May 31. RFA received April 30 for CRC (HHR) for acute care nurse support. May 10 and additional HHR were deployed the following weeks. RFA approved April 25 and expired June 30. CRC staff will transition by July 3.

On April 13, 2021, Emergency Management British Columbia (EMBC) requested the assistance of the CAF Rangers to assist in the distribution of supplies in Tahltan / Dease Lake FN. On April 16, the request was approved for seven hours on April 21. The RFA concluded on April 21.

RFA for vaccine rollout was approved on March 29, 2021. CRC’s mandate for providing vaccination support at 4 of these sites includes non-clinical support. CRC is supporting the fifth site with outreach and volunteer resources one day per month. 39 CRC staff with 4 out of the 5 actives sites - Charlottetown, Summerside, O'Leary, Montague, (Souris not Active).  As of September 28, 93% received their first dose, and 85% received their second dose. RFA closed as scheduled on September 30, 2021.

RFA received January 21, 2021 for CAF support to vaccine rollout operations to remote First Nations communities concluded on June 30.

RFA received March 16, 2021, for CAF support until September 30. CAF to secure a vaccine clinic space and to provide vaccination supports in an effort to assist the British Colombia community of Comox Valley. RFA Closed on July 9.

RFA was received on March 9, 2021, and approved the same day. The Rangers were asked to support the vaccine roll out. The RFA closed out on March 31.

RFA received and approved via Omnibus RFA on February 22, 2021. The RFA included support to both communities Cross Lake Band of Indians (Pimicikamak Cree Nation) and the adjacent Incorporated Community of Cross Lake (ICCL). CAF personnel were requested to provide support: The support of the CAF was requested and for humanitarian support for a period of up to 14 days. Deployment commenced February 23, and the RFA concluded on March 8.

RFA was received February 16, 2021, for CAF to facilitate the planning, implementation, and sustainment of testing sites to be established in sixteen designated land border crossings until April 9. PHAC sent close out email on March 27, 2021

RFA was received February 7, 2021, for CAF Rangers to support the response to the failure of critical infrastructure within the community. An RFA extension was received February 16. CAF stood down on February 20.

RFA was received February 5, 2021, for CAF support in transportation assistance, logistics, and wellness checks. The RFA concluded February 20.

RFA was received January 30, 2021, for CAF Ranger support until March 1. 6 CAF Rangers arrived on February 5 to preform various tasks. CAF stood down on March 1.

RFA was received January 30, 2021, for CAF support to assist the community until March 1. CAF stood down on February 11.

RFA was received January 21, 2021 for CAF Ranger support to vaccine rollout operations in 27 Northern Ontario remote communities, until the completion of the vaccination program in April 30.

RFA received January 19, 2021 from Solicitor General of Ontario to deploy two Mobile Health Units (MHU's). RFA requested was approved on January 22, 2021, until May 01. An extension was requested from the Province and approved until June 30.

RFA was received January 19, 2021, for CAF support. On January 21, CAF Regular Forces personnel deployed (36) to the community to provide general, and medical support for a period of up to 21 days. The RFA concluded on February 9.

RFA was received January 13, 2021, for CAF Rangers to support with transport of vulnerable persons to and from vaccination administration sites. CAF stood down on January 17.

Past Deployments – RFA Received in 2020

A RFA for CAF Ranger support was received on  December 13, 2020, via the Omnibus RFA. Solicitor General of Ontario, requested the support of the (CAF) Rangers to the Attawapiskat First Nation until December 22. RFA concluded on December 22.

RFA for CAF Ranger support until January 15, 2021 was received and approved on December 16, 2020 via the Omnibus RFA for no longer than thirty (30) days. Half of the community in Red Sucker Lake were symptomatic of COVID-19. ISC specifically sought support of the CAF for HHR and to assist in the establishment of a local Alternative Isolation Area (AIA) and transportation assistance.

RFA from PHAC was approved December 11, 2020, for CAF assistance with the transportation of freezers in order to support the COVID-19 vaccine rollout to Northern communities no later than December 17. The CAF confirmed capacity and willingness to support the RFA under the Omnibus RFA. RFA closed December 17.

RFA for CAF Rangers support was received and approved on December 4, 2020, and approved via the Omnibus RFA. CAF assistance was requested until January 15, 2021. CAF members will work alongside other members of the community to provide general support. CR’s deployment concluded on January 15.

The RFA was approved on December 4, 2020 via the Omnibus RFA.  CAF assistance will be implemented for thirty (30) days, until January 04, 2021. Specifically, CAF were requested to provide  logistical and general support.

The RFA for CRC support to Kivalliq Region from November 29, 2020, until January 30, 2021, was received on November 27 and approved on November 28. The CRC confirmed support to provide assistance to the Territory of Nunavut in the form of Epidemic Prevention and Control (EPC) support in Arviat and COVID-19 testing support in Winnipeg.

RFA was received November 24, 2020, for CAF Ranger support until January 31, 2021. An extension was approved until February 28, 2021. The deployment of 17 Rangers concluded on February 28, 2021, totaling 90 days of CAF support.

RFA for CAF support to Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN) First Nations approved on November 20, 2020, via the Omnibus RFA until November 28. Assistance of the CAF in the form of HHR. RFA closed on November 28.

On October 27, PHAC submitted a formal request for assistance to Public Safety. The RFA approved on November 17, 2020, under the Omnibus RFA until February 2021 with consideration for extension. The request specified the support of twelve (12) CAF leaders to assist PHAC’s team with two specific functions: establishment of a National Operations Centre (NOC), and logistics planning. The request for support was extended on February 26, 2021 until October 31, 2021. RFA closed on scheduled.

RFA for CRC support was approved on November 13, 2020, with some extensions #1 was approved January 14, 2021, and #2 was approved on April 1 to support until June 30.
By May 3, 12 facilities have been supported to date by 197 CRC personnel. RFA closed as scheduled on June 30.

Received RFA from province on September 26, 2020, for CRC Support to LTCF. Ext #1 approved for CRC support between December 17, 2020 and March 31, 2021. Ext #2 was approved for continued support until September 30, 2021.

As of October 20, 2020, the Neskantaga First Nation began evacuating to Thunder Bay due to the shutdown of the community water supply. The RFA for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) support was received on October 27 and approved via the Omnibus RFA. Canadian Rangers were tasked to support the local Emergency Operations Centre command post and to provide logistics and general support for evacuation, resupply and humanitarian aid. A request for extension of support to Neskantaga First Nations was received and approved on  November 26 and the RFA was extended until December 24. The requested tasks identified by the province remained consistent with the original list of requests, developed in consultation with SJS, and have been identified as appropriate for the Rangers’ mandate while providing the support required by the community. Repatriation efforts completed on December 20 and Canadian Rangers demobilized from the community on December 24.

The CRC deployment to Windsor-Essex commenced July 2, 2020, and ended on March 31, 2021. Extension request #1 was approved October 15, and extension request #2 was approved on December 18, extension request #3 was approved on January 18, 2021. In total, 1057 individuals were supported.

CAF support to RCMP to combat illicit cannabis.

On July 10, 2020, Minister of Public Safety wrote the Minister of National Defence formally requesting CAF assistance to support the National Sentry Program (NSP) beginning on July 10 until November 10, 2020. The request sought authorization of the CAF to provide assistance through the provision of personnel to undertake sentry security duties. The RFA was signed and approved from July 10 until November 10 for the on-site force protection to the CAF sentries posted to the National War Memorial/Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

On June 15, CAF transitioned to CRC support. Extension approved on September 15, #2 was approved on November 13, and #3 was approved December 23 for support until March 31, 2021. CRC has deployed 2,558 personnel to support 119 facilities. (Reference 00360-20-RFA0008).

On May 29, 2020, the Minister of Justice & Public Safety of Quebec requested CAF flyover assistance to locate a missing fishing vessel / fisherman. On May 29, 2020, the RFA was approved to provide approximately 10-12 hours air support to locate a 36-foot missing fishing vessel of the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Province concurred with the CAF assessment to call off the search and the request for assistance was fulfilled on 18:00 NDT June 5. The search under the RFA did not recover the missing vessel. 

On May 7, 2020, RFA from NunatuKavut Communities through the province for CAF Ranger assistance. The request identified the need for CAF deployment to conduct an assessment of COVID-19 related needs in those communities. Following the assessment, Canadian Rangers provided assistance to address the identified needs. The request was approved on May 7 and CAF completed all tasks as of June 8.

On April 30, 2020, Public Safety received and approved via Omnibus RFA a request from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) requesting CR’s support to Kawawachikamach FN to support the community in providing awareness regarding public health measures and logistical support related to COVID-19. As of May 2, the CAF Rangers were in the process of being activated under Omnibus RFA.

Received RFA from province on April 22, 2020, for CAF Support. Extension #1 approved May 11. #2 approved May 28. #3 approved June 12. #4 approved June 26. CAF deployed over 275 CAF members to support 7 facilities.

On April 13, 2020, the Province of Nova Scotia requested assistance of the CAF for a loan of a single portable ventilator. The equipment was needed to assist the Cobequid Community Health Centre in relation to COVID-19 in order to transfer patients requiring ventilation to Intensive Care Units (ICU) in neighboring communities. On April 23, this request was approved for a period of up to eight weeks. CAF completed duties on May 13.

On April 17, 2020 Indigenous Services Canada requested expansion of the Canadian Rangers assistance in Basse Côte-Nord to support the First Nations (FN) communities of Nutashkuan and Ekuanitshit located in the Côte-Nord and Basse Côte-Nord regions. The province requested Ranger support to local authorities through logistical support, awareness of health measures as well as support for vulnerable people or people in confinement. The RFA was approved on April 19, 2020 via Omnibus RFA until June 12, 2020.

Received RFA from province on April 15, 2020, for CAF Support. Extension#1 approved May 13. #2 approved June 12. CAF deployed over 1,350 CAF members to support 47 facilities. On June 15, CAF transitioned to CRC support (Reference 00360-21-RFA0015).

RFA was approved on April 15, 2020, under the Omnibus. On April 14, Public Safety received a letter from the province of Québec, seeking  the support of CAF Rangers (CR), already deployed in the Nunavik region, to the Basse-Côte-Nord Territory. The CR’s were tasked to provide equipment and logistical support necessary to set up screening zones in the villages of the Basse-Côte-Nord region. support local authorities by participating in awareness-raising efforts on public health measures related to COVID-19. CAF stood down on June 16.

RFA approved on April 11, 2020, under the Omnibus PHAC request to the Minister of National Defence (MND) for resources to assist with distribution and warehouse management of donated PPE in Mississauga, ON. The request specified DND/CAF support to PHAC for the aid in the planning and coordination of the use of other federal infrastructure within Canada for the warehousing of medical supplies, critical PPE, test equipment and associated support materials. Approximately 20 CAF members assisted with this activity. RFA and closed on April 16.

RFA approved on April 7, 2020, under the Omnibus RFA. On April 2, PS received a letter from the province of Québec seeking Canadian Rangers (CR) support to supply equipment and logistical support necessary to set up screening zones in the villages of Nunavik. CR were tasked to participate in awareness-raising efforts for community members on public health measures related to COVID-19 and also included the provision of tents to set up COVID-19 testing sites and the ensuing logistical support to maintain the equipment. CR supported 14 communities. RFA concluded on July 20.

March 30, 2020, the Minister of Public Safety wrote to the Minister of National Defence requesting assistance in support of the whole-of-government operation in response to COVID-19 and in anticipation of the natural disaster season.  Public Safety officials, in close coordination with CAF and other partners will manage incoming requests for assistance through an inter-departmental protocol that will serve as a single point of entry for senior officials to receive, coordinate, evaluate, prioritize, and action. On April 7, 2020, the Minister of National Defence authorized the employment of the CAF support as a force of last resort.

On April 5, 2020, the Ministry of Health requested use of a DND Air Force Base warehouse in Winnipeg (CFB Winnipeg) to store PPE, COVID testing kits, related supplies, and laboratory equipment warehouse space at a CAF base. Assessment was conducted after a three month period to determine continued support. The assistance requested is covered under the March 31 letter that Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness sent to the Minister of National Defence. With ministerial direction already provided, in accordance with the omnibus RFA, CAF has assessed this specific request and can support. The RFA was approved by CAF on April 6.  The RFA was concluded on May 15.

Received RFA an February 1, 2020. CAF specifically was asked to provide the following: facilities to be used for the reception and initial medical screening of repatriated Canadians at CFB Trenton, support their onward movement to accommodations at CFB Trenton; provide accommodations at CFB Trenton for repatriated Canadians for up to 14 days from reception, in addition to feeding and associated ground movement in the immediate vicinity; support the provision of feeding and provide associated facilities for external support and medical agencies (such as the RCMP or the CRC) for a period of up to 14 days; provide ground transportation for repatriated Canadians at the end of their self-isolation period to either Toronto or Montreal airports, should commercial or alternative options not be available.  On February 5, MND verbally approved deployment of CAF resources for this operation. RFA officially closed on April 1.

On January 18, 2020, RFA was approved for support until January 28. CAF to assist in the assurance of public welfare (i.e., wellness checks), opening of  civilian roadways, removal of snow blocking access to or negatively affecting critical infra, local snow removal for persons as coordinated by authorities, set up refuge locations, warming centers and emergency centers. In total 426, CAF personnel were deployed including 235 CAF Regular Forces and 191 Pres.checks), opening of  civilian roadways, removal of snow blocking access to or negatively affecting critical infra, local snow removal for persons as coordinated by authorities, set up refuge locations, warming centers and emergency centers. In total 426, CAF personnel were deployed including 235 CAF Regular Forces and 191 Pres. 

Background on Requests for Assistance

A Request for Federal Assistance (RFA) is the formalization of a request to the federal government to provide support in response to an emergency such as a natural disaster, national security incident and/or pandemic like COVID-19. If the Provinces or Territories (P/Ts) assess that the emergency exceeds their capacity and resources to response, they may seek assistance from the federal government to help them fill the gaps to mitigate and respond to an emergency. Additionally, federal organizations may also require resources from their federal partners if their ability to continue to operate and respond to an emergency is beyond their capacity.

When a P/T makes an official RFA, there is a well-established process in place for managing RFAs, through the Government Operation Centre (GOC), that includes interdepartmental consultation and coordination of all departments as required.

When the emergency involves a First Nation (FN) community, FN leadership, depending on relevant emergency management agreements, will work in collaboration with their P/Ts and/or Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) or regional officials, to assess the emergency and propose a response. If a resolution is not possible at the regional level, a request for assistance may be sought.

The GOC coordinates formal RFAs from the federal government and P/Ts and liaises with key organizations such as the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

The GOC has established an RFA Secretariat led by the GOC to receive, evaluate, and prioritize all RFAs. The GOC convenes consultation with implicated departments to review RFAs, as required.

Contacts:

Prepared by: Laura Chaloner, COVID Event Team Lead, Government Operations Centre, 613-323-0408

Approved by Trevor Bhupsingh, Assistant Deputy Minister, Emergency Management and Programs Branch, 613-993-4325

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