A statement from Christiane Fox, on the findings of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Report

April 10, 2026 - Defence Stories

I want to address the report released this week by the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner, which found I breached a provision of the Conflict of Interest Act while serving as Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

I have respect for the role of the Commissioner and the importance of the Conflict of Interest Act in maintaining public trust in our institutions. I acknowledge the Commissioner's findings and take this matter seriously.

Given the work we are advancing together, I also believe it is important that you have additional context about the intent of my actions.

At IRCC, I was given a clear mandate to lead a large-scale cultural and organizational change. My approach was motivated by a genuine desire to bring in outside perspectives, strengthen the performance of underperforming teams, and help build a public service that better reflects the people it serves.

In particular, my efforts were focused on advancing diversity and inclusion across the public service, an objective explicitly set for Deputy Ministers.

I approached that mandate with care and intent, including a focus on bringing in outside perspectives and voices that could help drive meaningful change. This included removing barriers that limited how talent was recognized both inside and outside government.

As leaders in the public service, we have a responsibility to improve institutions when they are not delivering as they should for Canadians. While my intent was to fulfill my responsibilities as a public office holder and advance meaningful organizational change in the Government of Canada's interests, I recognize how we pursue change is as important as the change itself, and that is something I will continue to carry forward in my work.

The work of the Department of National Defence remains critically important, and I remain fully focused on supporting you and advancing our mandate with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the responsibilities entrusted to us.

Thank you for your continued dedication and service.

Christiane Fox
Deputy Minister