Mediator Consultant - British Columbia for the Farm Debt Mediation Service (FDMS)

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is seeking to establish up to four Task Authorization Contracts with qualified contractors to deliver financial counselling and mediation services under the Farm Debt Mediation Service in British Columbia. The contract period spans five years, ending April 30, 2031, and services will be provided on an as-needed basis. Mediators are responsible for facilitating confidential, voluntary mediation sessions between farmers and their creditors, guiding the negotiation process, preparing written agreements, and collaborating with Financial Consultants to understand each case context. All activities must occur within British Columbia, with contractors required to maintain an office within 125 kilometers of the provincial boundary, though services may extend to other provinces by mutual agreement. Contractors must ensure all work adheres to strict security protocols, including handling PROTECTED information exclusively on AAFC-provided devices and networks, maintaining RELIABILITY STATUS clearances for all personnel, and securing prior written approval for any subcontracting. The contractor’s organization must hold a valid security clearance and comply with the Industrial Security Manual and PWGSC Contract Security Manual. The evaluation process prioritizes technical merit at 70%, assessing recent mediation experience including facilitation, resolution planning, and agreement drafting, with a minimum passing score of 55 out of 80 required. Price accounts for 30% of the score, evaluated based on a median band of compliant bids, with full points awarded for rates within a 10% below to 25% above median range. Awards will be made to the highest combined score, reflecting a trade-off approach. Invoices must be submitted electronically to a designated AAFC email, and all deliverables including mediation reports and signed arrangements must be provided electronically following established timelines. Contractors are responsible for full delivery costs under DDP terms, and replacements of key personnel require formal notice and approval by Canada. The contract imposes absolute restrictions on removing sensitive materials from government premises and mandates strict adherence to all security checklists and site-specific rules. Offerors must certify their legal eligibility, employment equity compliance if applicable, and status as a Canadian supplier or eligible trading partner, with additional documentation required for those handling classified or protected information.