Assessing the CAPC/CPNP joint management infrastructure as a model for FPT collaboration

Program Implementation Most of the Protocols (including the Terms of Reference) provided for consultation with community and the involvement of community organizations in the decision-making, planning, design and evaluation of the projects. [...] The JMI’s purpose included providing: • Direction to Health Canada on the implementation and delivery of the program(s); • A process for priority-setting and its implementation; • Recommendations on projects for approval to the Minister of Health; • Participation in the evaluation and monitoring of the programs; and • A forum for issue resolution. [...] The JMI’s Strengths When key informants were asked to identify the main factors contributing to the JMI’s success, the following themes emerged: The Overall Design of the Program/Protocols The Protocols provided a critical framework for the two levels of government to co-operate around mutually-agreed upon objectives and allowed for the relatively smooth “rolling out” of the CAPC/CPNP programs (in [...] Commitment The success of the JMI has been the result of a strong commitment of the two levels of government, the departments and ministries involved, and especially of the participating government officials to early childhood development initiatives and the goals and objectives of CAPC/CPNP. [...] Effective Working Relationships The members of the JMIs have developed a sense of trust and respect that has supported the collaborative work of the Committees, including contributing to the capacity of members to negotiate compromise and continuously seek the “high road,” and usually consensus, to move the programs forward.