8.2.1 Role of ministers. The minister is ultimately responsible to Parliament for all contracting activity. Each minister customarily delegates contracting authority to various levels within the department or agency. As stated in article 4.2, Related Requirements, officials delegated such authority are to exercise it with prudence and probity so that the responsible minister is acting and is seen to be acting within the letter and the spirit of the Government Contracts Regulations and the Treasury Board's contracting directives.
8.2.2 Common service organization (CSO). In some cases, the procurement of goods, which is the responsibility of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services, has been delegated to other ministers. In addition, the Treasury Board, pursuant to sub-section 7(1) of the Financial Administration Act, has directed that certain goods and services be procured through a CSO. (See the Treasury Board's policy on common services.)
8.2.3 Treasury Board Advisory Committee on Contracts (TBACC) considers matters involving the form and procedure of government contracts or the policy and guidelines on contracting that may be referred to it, or where the TBACC sees the need for change or clarification.
8.2.4 The work of TBACC, is undertaken by two subcommittees:
1. Construction Contracting Sub-Committee - matters related to realty and construction; and
2. Contracting General Sub-Committee - materiel and equipment, including repair and overhaul, and other issues not related to realty and construction.
8.2.5 Specialized working groups may be established to investigate and advise in areas of special interest.