The National Search and Rescue Secretariat is an independent agency of the federal government that reports directly to the Lead Minister for Search and Rescue, the Minister of National Defence. Created in 1986, the Secretariat works with all levels of government, police and emergency services to manage and improve search and rescue activities throughout Canada. It is responsible for the development, co-ordination, analysis and review of policies, plans and specific components and activities in support of the National Search and Rescue Program (NSP).
Amongst its many activities, National Search and Rescue Secretariat also publishes the quarterly SARSCENE magazine, stages the annual SARSCENE Conference and manages the SAR New Initiatives Fund (NIF), on behalf of the Lead Minister for Search and Rescue. SAR NIF provides annual funding for new projects (or initiatives) that will improve the National SAR Program. It is through the NIF program that Cold Water Boot Camp received its funding.
