The article reports that Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to announce a major reorganization whereby the Canadian Coast Guard will be folded into the Department of National Defence as part of Canada's efforts to meet NATO's 2% GDP defence spending target. This integration implies a shift from a historically civilian maritime safety and environmental protection agency to a militarized organization, raising concerns about increased authoritarian oversight and regulatory capture.

On August 28, 2023, the Government of Canada announced a major investment exceeding $65M under the Oceans Protection Plan. This funding includes $24.29M (with additional ongoing funds) directed at expanding Indigenous search and rescue training and $34.1M allocated to enhance the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. The initiative aims to bolster community-based search and rescue capacity, support Indigenous coastal communities, and improve maritime safety across Canada’s vast waters.

On July 12, 2023, the Government of Canada enacted new legislative measures through the passage of Bill C-47 under the Oceans Protection Plan. These changes, affecting the operational environment of agencies like the Canadian Coast Guard, aim to strengthen marine safety, enhance emergency response capabilities, and improve compensation for communities impacted by marine incidents, including Indigenous groups.

On May 25, 2023, the Government of Canada announced a $2.5 billion investment to renew and modernize the Canadian Coast Guard's small vessels fleet, aimed at enhancing maritime safety and creating well-paying jobs across Canada by supporting smaller shipyards and suppliers.

The Canadian Coast Guard released an extensive update to its Integrated Business and Human Resource Plan. The plan outlines fleet renewal, modernized training and recruitment initiatives, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and Indigenous reconciliation. These measures are designed to enhance workforce development, promote fair labor practices, and reinforce democratic public service values.

Effective April 1, 2023, the Canadian government introduced amendments to its federal procurement framework that integrate ESG, human rights, and supply chain transparency mandates. These measures—encompassing a mandatory Code of Conduct for Procurement that prohibits the importation of goods produced by forced labour—require all federal agencies, including the Canadian Coast Guard, to adhere to stricter ethical and sustainable sourcing protocols.