Data Collection 8. Canada understands the importance of gathering high-quality information to support policy and program development. Canada aims to collect coherent data using coordinated or integrated forms of data collection, including censuses, population-based surveys, health care administrative data, vital statistics and specialized subject-specific systems. 9. In 2016, the Government of Canada reinstated the Census of Population, underlining its commitment to making evidence-based decisions and programs and policies to provide better and timelier services to Canadians. Information collected in the Census is done in accordance with the Employment Equity Act and its Regulations and Guidelines. This information helps to support the development of policies and programs that promote equal opportunity in Canada. 10. Canada continues to use the term “visible minority” in the context of data collection on employment equity. Please refer to paragraphs 41-43 in the nineteenth and twentieth report of Canada on the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) for additional information. Access to Justice 11. The Government of Canada has committed to reinstating and modernizing the Court Challenges Program (CCP). The new Program will increase access to justice and support Canadians of all backgrounds in asserting and safeguarding their constitutionally-protected rights. 12. As per federal Budget 2016, the Government of Canada proposes to provide new funding of $12 million over five years to support the CCP. When combined with existing federal investments, total funding will be $5 million annually. It is anticipated that the CCP will be operational in 2017. Employment Measures 13. The federal government is responsible for the Employment Equity Act, which applies to federally-regulated employees. The purpose of the Act is to achieve equality so that no one is denied employment opportunities or benefits for reasons unrelated to ability and to correct conditions of disadvantage experienced by four designated groups, including members of visible minorities. 14. The Government of Canada offers labour market programming and information that promotes job creation, labour market inclusiveness and helps all Canadians develop the skills they need to succeed in the labour market and/or improve their employability. The Government of Canada works with provinces and territories by investing nearly $3 billion annually in skills development and employment programming for all Canadians. 2