# 2021-187 Pay and Benefits, Interim lodging, meals and incidentals

Case summary

F&R Date: 2022-08-18

The grievor argued that he was entitled to reimbursement of all meal expenses that he incurred during his relocation from Canada to the United States when delays brought on by the pandemic separated him from his household goods and effects (HG&E) for more than 30 days.

The Initial Authority, the Director General Compensation and Benefits, denied redress, finding that the grievor was reimbursed to the fullest extent possible under the Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program (CFIRP) Directive.

Noting the confusing wording of certain Canadian Forces General Messages (CANFORGEN) that were intended to provide additional move benefit guidance during the pandemic [CANFORGENs 052/20 and 072/20], the Committee sought clarification from the Director Compensation and Benefits Authority (DCBA), who acknowledged the confusion caused by the wording of the CANFORGENs. However, DCBA also confirmed that the maximum reimbursement for meals while separated from one's HG&E remained 30 days, and that there was no authority to deviate from the CFIRP Directive. Given that the CFIRP Directive already contemplated delays during relocation, the Committee did not find the grievor's circumstances to be exceptional.

Therefore, the Committee recommended that the Final Authority (FA) not afford redress.

FA decision summary

The Director Canadian Forces Grievance Authority, acting as FA, agreed with the Committee's findings and recommendation not to afford the grievor redress.