The Canadian Association of General Surgeons held its inaugural meeting on 11 May 1977 at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to which all general surgeons in Canada were invited.
The mission for CAGS is "The Canadian Association of General Surgeons promotes the training, education, continuing professional development, thoughtful practice and research essential to the provision of the exemplary surgical care Canadians expect and deserve".
CAGS offers its members a range of educational opportunities, supports surgical research, and provides a forum for Canadian General Surgeons to discuss the issues that challenge the specialty of General Surgery.
CAGS sponsors a yearly meeting called the Canadian Surgery Forum.
This examination is also offered at a fee for any CAGS member at the annual Canadian Surgery Forum.