Review of the Immigration Control
Officer Network – Final Report
1.2 Objectives and Scope
The objectives of this review were to do the following:
- provide senior management with independent and factual information and analysis on how the ICO Network is performing;
- recommend solutions to identifiable problems; and
- assist CIC in ensuring maximum benefit is derived from overseas control resources.
The scope of the review included activities performed by ICOs, as well as Headquarters’ (HQ’s) responsibilities in that area. The review examined, in a comprehensive manner, important aspects of the ICO Network in the context of the objectives of the immigration control and interdiction functions.
This review included, but was not limited to, an examination of the following:
- roles and responsibilities of ICOs; and
- activities ICOs perform to fulfil their responsibilities.
Also examined was whether ICOs have, or are provided with, the appropriate expertise and knowledge, tools and support, and direction and guidance.
Issues of coordination and integration in the overall management of ICO resources, accountability and duties were to be examined. While the study focused on the current situation, analysis covered at least one year of ICO activities to gather sufficient information to draw conclusions and provide support for recommendations.
The following key issues were addressed.
Roles and Responsibilities of ICOs
- What are the roles and responsibilities given to ICOs (including interdiction, intelligence gathering, anti-fraud activities, reporting and liaison, visa vetting and role as a security information resource for others doing screening)?
- How do such roles and responsibilities fit into CIC’s overall enforcement objectives and activities?
- Are ICOs contributing fully to departmental efforts to meet partnership commitments and expectations?
- Who tasks ICOs and to whom are they accountable?
Actual Duties of ICOs
- What are the tasks ICOs really undertake during their assignment?
- To what extent are they aligned with the roles that ICOs should play?
- What responsibilities should so-called de facto ICOs and other visa officers have in terms of interdiction and control activities?
Support and Guidance
- How are orientation and guidance provided to ICOs?
- How adequate are the tools made available to them?
Resource Allocations
- What is the basis of ICO resource allocations throughout the immigration program delivery network?
- How is the process tied to departmental risks, exposures and partnership commitments?
- How flexible is the system in light of shifting demands and points of pressure?
Assignment and Training
- On what basis are assignments made?
- What background or training should be given to ICOs?
- Date Modified:
