Ombudsman launches review of the Canadian Armed Forces’ complaint mechanisms

Ombudsman Message | 22 August 2023

I am pleased to announce the launch of a systemic review into military complaint mechanisms. This review will focus on two areas.

We will review the way the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is handling health care complaints. We want to identify instances of potential unfairness and inequity resulting from the lack of a formal health care complaint process for CAF members. My office has monitored this issue for more than a decade with the CAF progressing slowly.

My office will also examine the scenarios where members have limited or no rights to grieve, such as areas under the sole authority of Treasury Board. We want to pinpoint areas of concern that result from a lack of recourse mechanisms. We will also assess the impact on affected CAF members.

Alongside these reviews, we will publish educational information to help members make informed decisions when using the CAF complaint mechanisms.

I encourage all members of the Defence community to consult our website regularly and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates. You can also contact us with questions, concerns or issues affecting your well-being. We are ready to help.

Gregory A. Lick
Ombudsman