# 2014-016 - Vocational Rehabilitation Program

Case Summary

F&R Date: 2014–05–13

The grievor applied to participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members (VRPSM). He met the eligibility criteria and submitted a detailed plan to his Commanding Officer (CO) for approval. Afterward, the grievor requested an earlier release date, shortening the timeframe in which to complete his VRPSM plan. The grievor's CO denied his VRPSM application.

The Initial Authority confirmed the grievor's eligibility for the program, but noted that the CO's approval was a requirement for the program. The Initial Authority also pointed out that the proposed VRPSM plan was not feasible due to the very limited amount of time available to execute it and denied the grievance.

The Committee considered the Canadian Forces General Message 151/01, which is the authoritative reference for the VRPSM, as well as the VRPSM Aide-Mémoire, which provides guidance to Canadian Armed Forces members and their COs with regard to the VRPSM.

The Committee found that the grievor was eligible for the VRPSM program. When considering the grievor's VRPSM plan, in light of the amended release date, the Committee concluded that the proposed timeframe rendered the VRPSM plan unfeasible. Consequently, the Committee found that the decision to deny the grievor's VRPSM application was reasonable.

The Committee recommended that the Chief of the Defence Staff deny the grievance.

CDS Decision Summary

CDS Decision Date: 2015–01–22

The FA agreed with the Committee's findings and recommendation that the grievance be denied.