Ombudsman flags inequities CAF members face when they have limited or no grievance rights
News release
Ottawa, Ontario, June 18, 2024 – The National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman, Gregory A. Lick, released a report today titled Getting Redress Right: An investigation into the inequities Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members face when they have limited or no grievance rights. This is Mr. Lick’s final report before his mandate ends on July 2nd.
The Ombudsman's investigation focused on the CAF’s limited authority to resolve military members’ grievances related to compensation and benefits since these directives and instructions are under Treasury Board authority.
The report identifies how the CAF’s limited authority to resolve compensation and benefits grievances makes the military grievance process ineffective for providing redress.
The most significant inequity found is that, unlike their civilian colleagues, CAF members cannot access a grievance process to determine if the CAF treated them within the intent or “spirit” of the directive. The result is a disparity in benefits and longer resolution time when compared to civilians. This has a negative effect on morale and trust in the CAF as an institution.
The Ombudsman urges the Minister of National Defence to engage appropriate authorities to ensure that the CAF can make decisions that align with Treasury Board policies. He also recommends that the CAF consult the Treasury Board and the National Joint Council as they implement the CAF Grievance Transformation initiatives.
The Ombudsman makes seven recommendations. If implemented, they will bring lasting improvements to resolve compensation and benefits issues for CAF members.
Quotes
“Our recommendations complement ongoing initiatives within the CAF and could help rectify the inequity CAF members face.”
Gregory A. Lick, National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman
“By implementing our recommendations, the CAF can address concerns with the military grievance process, increase the welfare of members, put in place a more efficient process, and contribute to restoring trust in the CAF.”
Gregory A. Lick, National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman
Quick facts
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Getting Redress Right is the Ombudsman’s second of two reports following a systemic review of CAF military complaint mechanisms. It is also his final report before his mandate ends on July 2nd.
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The Ombudsman investigates complaints and serves as a neutral third party on matters related to the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces.
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Acting independently of the chain of command and managers, the Ombudsman reports directly to the Minister of National Defence.
Associated links
- Ombudsman publishes Getting Redress Right: An investigation into the inequities CAF members face when they have limited or no grievance rights
- Getting Redress Right: An investigation into the inequities Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members face when they have limited or no grievance rights
- Defending Wellness: A Systemic Investigation of the Canadian Armed Forces’ Health Care Complaint Process
- Educational information: Recourse and complaint mechanisms
Contacts
Sarah Dolan
Communications Advisor, Communications and Parliamentary Affairs
343-549-9296
sarah.dolan@forces.gc.ca