Authorities and Key Provisions: SBIPS Supply Arrangement
This document provides a comprehensive overview of key authorities, responsibilities, and provisions related to the Solutions-Based Informatics Professional Services (SBIPS) Supply Arrangement (SA). These sections also address frequently asked questions such as "Who are the authorities in the SBIPS Supply Arrangement?" and "What are the priority documents for the SBIPS SA?"
Who Are the Authorities in the SBIPS Supply Arrangement?
Who is the Supply Arrangement Authority?
The Supply Arrangement Authority plays a pivotal role in the administration of the SBIPS Supply Arrangement. Here are the key details:
Name: Manager of the Informatics Methods of Supply (IMOS)
Department: Public Services and Procurement Canada
Branch: Acquisitions Branch
Directorate: Informatics and Telecommunications Systems Procurement Directorate
Address: 10 Wellington Street, Gatineau, Québec, K1A 0S5
Email: rcnmdai.-ncrimos@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca
The Supply Arrangement Authority is responsible for establishing, maintaining, and revising the Supply Arrangement. Changes to the SA must be authorized in writing. For any bid solicitation under the SA, the respective Contracting Authority manages contractual matters.
What Is the Role of the Supplier Representative?
Suppliers must designate a representative to serve as the primary contact for all matters related to the SBIPS SA. This individual must:
Maintain up-to-date information in the Centralized Professional Services System (CPSS).
Notify the Supply Arrangement Authority of any changes to contact details.
Have the authority to bind the Supplier.
Suppliers can also designate additional representatives for administrative and technical purposes under resulting contracts.
What is the Maintenance of Supplier Information?
Suppliers are responsible for managing their "tombstone" data in CPSS. They must safeguard login credentials for accessing the Supplier Module. Canada will not accommodate delays or cancellations caused by a Supplier’s inability to access or update their credentials.
What Are the Priority Documents for the SBIPS Supply Arrangement?
If discrepancies arise between governing documents, the following hierarchy applies:
Articles of the Supply Arrangement.
General Conditions 2020 (2017-09-21), Supply Arrangement—Goods or Services.
Attachment B: SBIPS SA Holder’s Eligible Streams of Expertise, Regions, and Metropolitan Areas.
Attachment A: SBIPS Streams of Expertise and Definitions.
Generic Security Requirements Checklists.
Model Bid Solicitation.
Model Resulting Contract.
The Supplier’s arrangement submitted under the SBIPS RFSA.
Certifications: Why Are They Important for SBIPS?
Continuous compliance with certifications submitted during the arrangement process is mandatory. Canada may verify these certifications at any time. Non-compliance or inaccurate certifications may result in:
Termination of resulting contracts.
Suspension or cancellation of the Supply Arrangement.
What Laws Govern the SBIPS Supply Arrangement?
The SBIPS SA and resulting contracts are governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada, unless specified otherwise in the Supplier’s arrangement response to the RFSA.
Can Canada Suspend or Cancel an SBIPS Qualification?
Yes, Canada can suspend or cancel the Supply Arrangement if the Supplier:
Publicly discloses conflicting information about the terms of the SA.
Fails to meet obligations under the SA.
Written notice will be provided in such cases.
What Is the Aboriginal Business Certification Requirement?
If a Supplier submits an Aboriginal Business Certification, they must:
Maintain proper records for six years after the final payment or until disputes are resolved.
Obtain written approval before disposing of records.
Allow audits by Canadian representatives to verify compliance.
Non-compliance may result in penalties or the cancellation of the SA.
What Are the Delivery Requirements Outside Comprehensive Land Claims Settlement Areas?
The SBIPS SA cannot be used for deliveries within Comprehensive Land Claims Settlement Areas (CLCSAs). These must be processed individually by Public Services and Procurement Canada.
How Does the Controlled Goods Program Apply?
Suppliers handling Controlled Goods under the Defence Production Act must:
Be registered under the Controlled Goods Program (CGP).
Provide proof of registration, exemption, or exclusion.
Maintain compliance throughout the duration of the SA.
Failure to comply may result in default.
What Are the Insurance Requirements?
Suppliers must:
Meet the insurance requirements specified in bid solicitations under the SBIPS SA.
Maintain coverage for the SA’s duration.
Consider additional coverage for their own protection at their expense.
What Are the Environmental Considerations?
Suppliers are encouraged to adopt environmentally friendly practices, including:
Submitting electronic documents.
Using recycled paper and double-sided printing for physical submissions.
Reducing travel by leveraging teleconferencing.
Choosing accommodations with environmental certifications when travel is necessary.
Conclusion
The SBIPS Supply Arrangement involves a structured set of authorities, certifications, and responsibilities designed to streamline government contracting for IT solutions. By understanding key questions such as "What is the role of the Supply Arrangement Authority?" and "What are the priority documents for the SBIPS SA?" suppliers can ensure compliance and maximize opportunities. Maintaining certifications, adhering to reporting obligations, and prioritizing environmentally sustainable practices are essential for success under the SBIPS framework.