This sub-sub-series contains general correspondence addressed, in the majority of cases, to Jean Chrétien (copies). A PMO correspondence transmittal form is usually attached. In some cases a copy of the reply, written and signed by the Executive Assistant, is attached to the piece of correspondence. To a lesser degree, the sub-sub-series also contains handwritten notes.
In addition to those who write as individuals, the sub-sub-series contains a significant number of letters received and/or sent by: heads and representatives of various Canadian enterprises and financial institutions; members of various lobbies, associations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs); ministers and members of various religious communities; Canadian university chancellors and professors; and lawyers and judges. To a lesser degree, it also includes: Senators; secretaries of state; federal Ministers; provincial Premiers and Cabinet Ministers; members of the House of Commons and various provincial legislative assemblies; Liberal Party candidates; the Solicitor General of Canada; mayors and city administrators; representatives of federal and provincial political parties; foreign heads of state; and ambassadors, embassy delegates and consuls.
Most of the issues and major events marking Jean Chrétien's three terms as Prime Minister are addressed in this correspondence: federal-provincial politics, most notably the Constitution, the particular case of Quebec and the 1995 referendum; the sponsorship program; the Liberal Party of Canada and provincial Liberal parties; the Chrétien government (support and criticism); the state of Canada's economy and finances, i.e. the budget, the deficit, national income and equalization; national industry and commerce; international trade, particularly Canada / U.S. relations (softwood lumber, Team Canada, fisheries, etc.); national defence; justice, most notably gun control bills; social policy; immigration; health and well-being (with issues such as sexual orientation, euthanasia and AIDS); the Public Service of Canada; communications; aboriginal affairs; the environment (i.e. the Kyoto Protocol, etc.); official languages and bilingualism; and global conditions and international relations.
In addition to the topics addressed, this sub-sub-series concerns the chief role of the Executive Assistant who, as the person in charge of managing the Prime Minister's schedule, is kept informed of his activities and engagements. The pieces of correspondence collated here were thus forwarded to the Assistant, mainly for information purposes. The sub-sub-series includes various complaints and requests which may require adjustments to the Prime Minister's agenda. Passages of interest were often highlighted: i.e. purpose of the letter, attachments and implications (expectations, appointments, etc.). Notes handwritten directly on copies of correspondence, Post-It notes or transmittal forms illustrate PMO follow-up procedures.
