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Media Response Lines on Allegations

Allegations against former CDS General Jonathan Vance

Issue

Global News broke a story on Feb 2 about allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct by former CDS General Jonathan Vance. The media coverage alleges inappropriate behaviour with two female subordinates, including one regarding an alleged relationship with a woman he significantly outranked.

Further allegations have since surfaced, including that the Minister knew of these concerns at the time.

Several other media outlets have picked up the story.

Original Story:

Following Global News Coverage

Media Response Lines

Q. It has been nearly three weeks since Adm. McDonald announced an independent review into the allegations facing Gen. Vance. Who will lead this review? When will the review ommence? What will be its mandate and scope? Who will be interviewed as part of this review? What further specifics can you provide? (Feb 22)

As previously stated, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces has no tolerance for any form of sexual misconduct. Every person in the Defence Team, whether civilian or military, deserves a safe work environment.

We continue to work towards establishing the terms of reference for the independent review, and details will be announced once finalized.

Q. Can you confirm that the CFNIS investigation will be expanded to investigate who knew about the allegations against Gen. Vance and who protected him, including any systemic suppression that would have prevented Maj. Brennan or others from coming forward? (Feb 22)

The CFNIS cannot comment on ongoing investigations. This is standard procedure amongst police agencies which aims to protect the integrity of investigations. 

Q. Retired Lt.-Gen. Mike Day, who was deputy commander of Allied Joint Force Command Naples at the time of the 2015 investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Gen. Vance during his time in Italy, has said that to the best of his knowledge, “nobody in the Canadian contingent in Naples was interviewed” as part of that investigation. In light of that, and with regard to the CFNIS investigation into the current allegations against Gen. Vance, does the department have confidence in the military police’s ability to investigate this matter properly? (Feb 22)

We have full confidence in the ability of the CFNIS to carry out this work.

Q. Will the department now release the findings of the 2015 investigation? (Feb 22)

Requests of this nature are to be made through the Access to Information process.

Q. Does the Canadian military now agree that it needs outside oversight to deal with sexual misconduct within its ranks? (Feb 22)

The Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (SMRC) is independent from the Chain of Command and continues to monitor and provide guidance on the Canadian Armed Forces’ progress in eliminating sexual misconduct from the ranks. In fact, since July 2019, we expanded its mandate so that the SMRC now evaluates the outcomes of CAF policies and programs, providing independent, external analysis of their efficacy and recommendations for improvement.

Given the planned independent review, it would be inappropriate to comment on any changes to our existing processes.

Q. Is it true that three male CFNIS investigators were sent to the woman’s home? Were any of the three investigators armed? If so, what firearms did they have on their person? Why were no female investigators or support staff sent to the woman’s home as part of their visit? (Feb 11)

The CFNIS does not provide details surrounding the conduct of ongoing investigations.

Q. Is it true that a male victim services provider was assigned to the woman? Is it true that this male victim services provider is on vacation until next week? Which organization is providing these victim services in this specific case? Why was a female victim services provider not assigned or made available to the woman in this case? (Feb 11)

CFNIS does have its own victim services program.  Each CFNIS region is assigned one victim services member who are available either at the request of a victim or by referral from a CFNIS investigator to provide assistance to victims of crime.

This includes connecting them with appropriate resources (local health care and social services specializing in victim assistance, emergency shelters), providing them advice, guidance and ensuring they are informed of the investigative and court processes and status.   

These victims services members act as a reactive referral service that works with CAF, provincial, federal, and community resources to offer information to victims. Examples include but are not limited to:

  • Sexual Misconduct Response Centre, Hospital (CAF and Civilian as appropriate), Padre, Military Family Resource Centre and specific resources to meet the needs of victims;
  • Transition to court victim services (VWAP in Ontario);
  • Provincial Children’s Aid/Protection Societies;
  • Safety Planning; and 
  • Crisis Centres.

It is to be noted that the member’s direct supervisor has also been in constant contact to ensure she is offered all possible support in this matter.

Q. Would you confirm the finding of the investigation from 2015 into possible Code of Service Discipline violations by General Vance? Did NIS investigators procure a copy of the concurrent US military investigation? Did NIS investigators travel to Naples and interview Cdn/US military staff as part of the investigation? (Feb 11)

An allegation against General Vance was investigated by the military police in 2015 for conduct while serving as Deputy Commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples, a position he held from 2013 until July 2014.

The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) investigation did not meet the elements of the offence to lay charges under the Code of Service Discipline or the Criminal Code of Canada

Q. What is Jonathan Vance’s current rank in the CAF? Is he on terminal leave? When is Vance set to be discharged from the CAF? (Feb 10)

General Vance is currently assigned to the Transition Group and is completing the release process from the Canadian Armed Forces.

It is anticipated that the process to be released from the CAF will be completed by March 31, 2021.

Q. Can the CFNIS charge the CDS under the Code of Service Discipline? If they do, can the CDS be tried by court martial? If he is charged under s 129 of the NDA, would he be tried by General Court Martial, Standing Court Martial, or would he be able to elect one or the other? Why are they investigating if they can’t? (Feb 9)

The CFNIS has authority and jurisdiction over persons who are subject to the Code of Service Discipline, wherever Canadian Forces are established or deployed throughout the world, regardless of rank or status.

It would be inappropriate to comment further on processes or possible outcomes given the ongoing investigation.

Q. Why wasn’t an outside police force brought in to investigate the allegations? (Feb 5)

The CFNIS is responsible for the conduct of investigations into allegations against CAF members or taking place on a defence establishment.

We have full confidence in their ability to conduct any such investigation.

We are also working towards an independent examination, for which the specifics are being determined. 

In the meantime, our priority is caring for the well-being of those who have come forward.

Q. Was there ever an investigation opened into Gen. Vance and his behaviour with a subordinate officer during his time in Italy? If so, what did that investigation find? Did Gen. Tom Lawson order an investigation? Was it administrative? Or was it handed to the military police? What was the outcome of that investigation? Was the investigation completed or was it shut down before that? Did the investigation at any point review Gen. Vance’s electronic communications? Did the investigation at any point interview staff in Italy? (Feb 5)

In order to ensure investigative integrity and procedural impartiality, we will not be commenting on matters that might be included in the independent examination and/or the CFNIS investigation.

Q. Can you please clarify what is meant by "independent examination"? Is this in reference to the investigation announced by Adm. McDonald? Can you provide any further details of the "independent examination"? (Feb 5)

There are/will be two investigations.

One is by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (Military Police), which is responsible for the conduct of investigations into such allegations against CAF members or taking place on a defence establishment.

The other – the one we referenced earlier this week – is an independent examination, for which the specifics are still being determined. 

Q. Can you confirm CFNIS has launched an investigation? (Feb 4)

We can confirm the CFNIS is investigating this matter.  In order to preserve the integrity of the investigative process, no additional information can be provided at this time.

Q. Will DND commence an investigation into the allegations made against Gen. Vance? (Feb 3)

We are looking at an independent examination, however, the specifics around any investigation have yet to be determined.

Q. What other actions will the Department of National Defence take in response to these allegations? (Feb 3)

While we are looking at an independent examination, our priority is caring for the well-being of those who have come forward.

We must ensure that they feel supported as they navigate this very difficult time.

Furthermore, we are actively encouraging all members of the Defence Team who might need to speak to someone to please step forward and reach out or to use the resources that are available – including, for example, the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (SMRC) which has counsellors available 24/7 to provide confidential counselling, emotional support, and information regarding support options available.

Culture change is a no-fail mission for which we are all responsible.  CAF members – and all Canadians - expect and deserve it.

Q. Does the CFNIS plan to investigate these allegations regarding Gen. Vance? (Feb 3)

As previously mentioned, we are looking an independent examination.

Q. What repercussions – if any – will these allegations have on the military’s pursuit of Operation Honour? (Feb 3)

Recent reports have shown that, now more than ever, OP HONOUR must be a critical component of our efforts to change the workplace culture.

OP HONOUR is not a static operation.  It is a continually-evolving endeavour, needed to establish long-term institutional change.

Q. Would Adm. McDonald be available for an on-camera interview today? We could send a camera to his location or arrange an interview via Zoom, Skype or FaceTime. (Feb 3)

Admiral McDonald will make himself available in due course once we determine the way ahead.

CDS Message (Feb 24)

Teammates,

Two weeks ago, I committed that I would provide updates regarding recent allegations in the media and I am writing to you now, in that context.

As I expressed in my earlier communiqué, any dialogue on this matter needs to begin here – our concerns always being first and foremost for the well-being of those who come forward with great vulnerability.

I need first and foremost to salute Major Brennan for speaking up, and I can assure you that the concerns she raised will be fully and fairly investigated. We are also assuring that all necessary and requested support is available to her.

As you’ll be aware, a disciplinary investigation by Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) has already been launched into the allegations against the former Chief of the Defence Staff. At the same time, as the Minister has directed, we are working to define the Terms of Reference and engage a qualified provider for an external independent review of the culture within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Department of National Defence (DND).

Meanwhile, it is critical for all of us to assume collective responsibility for the culture change necessary to make our shared institution a safer and more respectful workplace for all Defence Team members.

There are tangible actions we can take in the meantime.

If you are considering speaking to anyone with information on this case, or any other case of alleged misconduct, you have my support to come forward, to speak up, and to tell the truth. And you can expect to be heard, supported, and protected as you do.

Reporting experiences of misconduct is a deeply difficult and personal choice. It is entirely the decision of the individual. The Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (SMRC), which operates independently from the CAF, can provide resources for care and support and does not require a formal report to the Chain of Command to do so.

Moreover, it is my strong belief that the Chain of Command should be a facilitator to reporting.  If you do not feel comfortable reporting a misconduct to your immediate supervisor, you may – indeed you should – report your concern to any other member of the Chain of Command. But if, because of the nature of the misconduct or owing to any context making this difficult, it is not feasible for you to engage your Chain of Command, there are options:  a report may be made to the military police, CFNIS, or civilian police. In short, if you need help with respect to reporting misconduct, there are multiple pathways available so that you can find one that is most comfortable for you.

Finally, as you’ve heard from our Minister: The time for patience is over. Much has already been started and while our work will endure the next few Watches, we must accelerate our culture change. Obviously, this requires everyone’s (re)commitment and (re)engagement at every rank and level, but it must – first and foremost – be initiated and followed-through by leaders at every level and across the spectrum of our Defence Team. Armed Forces Council Executive (AFCX) has already kicked-off this process and Service Commanders have been actively orienting subordinate commands and teams.

Our institution can no longer put the burden of change and transformation on those affected by harassment, discrimination, or any form of misconduct. That burden must rest on us. All of us.

As I said to you in my previous message, trust is earned. I as the Chief, along with all the leaders in CAF, need to work every day to earn your trust. And we are all committed to doing so.

Teammates, progress has been made over the years, but the road ahead of us is longer than the road behind us. As we continue to walk that road together, we need to continue to see courageous and frank talk combined with bold, supportive actions. This task belongs to each and every one of us and I know I can count on your support.

Your Teammate,
Admiral Art McDonald
Chief of the Defence Staff

ADM(HR-CIV) Message (Feb 4)

Defence Team,

As your civilian Chief Human Resources Officer, I would like to reiterate that we, as your leaders, take all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and misconduct seriously.

It is your absolute right to benefit from a safe and respectful work environment. We understand that the recent allegations in the media are deeply troubling. These alleged behaviours are completely unacceptable actions for anyone in our Defence Team.

We recognize that issues of this nature can trigger a range of difficult emotions. We remain committed to your well-being as members of the Defence Team, and want to remind you of the support available to you and to your family members.

If at any time you are in distress, please contact your Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-268-7708 or your nearest distress centre. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.

There are a variety of mechanisms and resources available to support you. We understand that these current situations may be overwhelming, and can take a considerable time to process. These services and resources are available to support you.

All members of the Defence Team have access to:

  • Health Canada - Employee Assistance Services (EAS) provides short-term professional counselling services. This service is available 24/7, 365 days a year by calling 1-800-268-7708 or 1-800-567-5803 (TTY).
  • LifeSpeak offers free confidential access to hundreds of short videos by experts addressing everyday issues.

All employees of DND have access to:

  • EAP Peer Advisors (PAs) who provide confidential, active-listening and resources to employees in need. Call HR Connect RH at 1-833-747-6363 to be connected with a readily available PA from 0800-1600 hours, Monday to Friday. Your call will be returned within 24 hours.
  • The Office of Disability Management (accessible only on the Defence Team Network) is an impartial, collaborative and inclusive group that supports employees and supervisors or managers dealing with disability-related events caused by illness, impairment and injury.
  • The Mental Health and Well-being Corporate Office (accessible only on the Defence Team Network) supports the health and well-being of employees and provides access to tools, resources and services to assist organizations in building a safe, supportive and respectful work environment.

Lastly, I would like to emphasize that it is okay to not be okay. Please continue to have open and honest conversations with your peers, supervisors, family and friends. I encourage you to use the support and resources available to you, and most importantly ask for help when you need it.

Thank you,

Kin Choi
Assistant Deputy Minister (Human Resources – Civilian)
Department of National Defence

CDS message (Feb 3)

As I said when I was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff two weeks ago, the Canadian Armed Forces must be an agile, multi-purpose, combat-ready military.

And recall too that our mission success as a flagship national institution ultimately comes down to people – to us. And like any people-based activity, we’re empowered by the support and trust of our government, of our fellow Canadians and of each other – CAF and Department of National Defence teammates.

Of course, that trust and support – while sacrosanct and absolutely key to our operational effectiveness and successes – is not given freely or owed. It is earned. 

We earn it by supporting Canadians in their times of need. 

We earn it by representing Canada and all Canadians, with pride and honour, when we operate overseas.

And most importantly, we earn it day in and day out when we treat each other with the dignity and respect we all deserve – showing it to those that look in, to those that are in. Always and Everybody – Private to Admiral.

To us, the strong and accomplished CAF/DND team, the allegations in recent media reports regarding my predecessor are quite troubling – indeed, distressing and hurtful for all of us to contemplate. 

Like you, I worry, first and foremost, for the well-being of those who have come forward so courageously – committing to ensure that they are supported and protected.

Like you, I pray that our collective and enduring efforts in support of survivors will soon help end the fear of speaking-up that plagues those feeling violated or hurt and in such need of the compassion and help of teammates – we have work to do together here and, like you, I hear the call to do more.

Like you, I ask myself what tools and mechanisms are we lacking to encourage and empower the wronged to come forward with confidence and trust.

And frankly, I fear that situations like these erode the trust you have in leadership.

While quite naturally it may, I share that I am certain that leaders at all levels between you and me (and including me) are now spurred to rebuild your confidence and trust in us. We must – recognizing it is earned not owed. We will.

Here, I feel the need to encourage you to look at the Chain of Command in a new way – the “chain” does not limit you to contact with only one immediate superior, but instead links you to a team of superiors with whom you can interact when appropriate to ensure you are championed, celebrated and enabled.

Teammates, you are encouraged to fully leverage the links of your chain – especially when wronged by misconduct and when you are not sure where you need go for support.

Of course, we need note too that beyond the chain of command, support and counsel are available always from a trusted teammate or via one of the anonymous supporting-resources made available in-person, on-line and by phone to CAF/DND members and families. In this extended Forces family, you need never feel alone and unsupported.

Yet it’s easy to appreciate that this type of alleged behavior does exactly that. It isolates individuals and weakens our team. This is not acceptable. Its occurrence tells us that we need to work much harder at reshaping the culture of our workforce, our workplace and our workspaces to ensure that we are taking care of one another. This culture change, about which you’ll continue hearing a steady drumbeat, will take a concentrated effort by each and every one of us.

We are the CAF. We must proactively and consistently protect against harm, we do not cause it. The same rules and standards are applied to all. We all own a share of the responsibility to make this so – and, of course, leadership a lion’s share. As we do, every allegation must not only hurt us all but equally so it must compel us forward to a better place, a better us, together.

Meanwhile, teammates, I encourage all members of the Defence Team who might need to speak to someone to please step forward and reach out or to use the resources that are available – including, for example, the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (SMRC) which has counsellors available 24/7 to provide confidential counselling, emotional support, and information regarding support options available.

Of course, yesterday’s allegations will be investigated. As this situation unfolds and we learn more, I promise to be open and transparent in communicating with you all as we weather this storm together.

Original DM/CDS Message (Feb 2)

Recent allegations in media of inappropriate behaviour by General Jonathan Vance are troubling. As leaders in DND/CAF, we take all allegations of this nature seriously.

As we have said before, any type of misconduct critically undermines our ability to operate effectively, protect our members and, more importantly, protect Canada. This applies to all individuals, regardless of rank.

We will be communicating more in the coming days and have no further comment at this time.

DND/CAF is committed to providing a work environment free from any and all forms of harm for all of its members. Anything less is unacceptable. We remain dedicated to the wellbeing of our Defence Team members and will continue to offer support to anyone who needs it.

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Allegations against Admiral Art McDonald

Issue

On February 24, CFNIS confirmed an investigation is underway into allegations of misconduct by Adm McDonald.

A Minister’s Statement was sent out to media and posted on the website: Statement from the Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence

Media Response Lines

Q. What are Lt.-Gen. Eyre’s powers and authorities as acting CDS? I’m specifically wondering if he will be tasked with providing direction or making decisions as the acting CDS, or whether he is in there as more of a caretaker until the investigation into the allegations against Adm. McDonald is complete. (Provided Feb 28)

LGen Eyre has all authorities as acting CDS. The answer lies in section 18.2 of the National Defence Act, whereas in the event of the absence of the Chief of the Defence Staff, an officer specified by the Minister (or the Chief of the Defence Staff) has the control and administration of the Canadian Forces.

Q. Reporters asking about: (Provided Feb 25)

  • the CFNIS investigation: what’s it about, when did it start, is it connected to allegations surrounding General Vance, what does it entail, when did the allegations first surface, why military police are investigating instead of RCMP, how will we ensure there is no bias or conflict-of-interest, whether the military justice system can handle a case involving the CDS, etc.
  • the CDS stepping down: when did he step down, why did he do it, has anyone else stepped down, will he continue to receive compensation, etc.
  • the A/CDS and what the trickledown effect is

As stated by Minister Sajjan, we take all allegations of misconduct seriously and continue to take strong action on any allegation that is brought forward. No matter the rank, no matter the position.

The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service has confirmed an investigation into Admiral Art McDonald.  Yesterday evening, once informed of this investigation, Admiral McDonald voluntarily stepped aside to allow the process to unfold.   He is currently on paid leave.

Given this is an active investigation, we will not be providing additional comment on its contents, processes and possible outcomes, nor will we be addressing information coming from various sources.

While we understand the interest in the matter, we must always ensure the integrity of any investigation protects the complainants and safeguards due process.

We have full confidence in the CFNIS’ ability to carry out their mandate of investigating matters within their jurisdiction, which includes the authority to investigate persons subject to the Code of Service Discipline, wherever Canadian Forces are established or deployed throughout the world, regardless of rank or status.

Finally, Minister Sajjan has appointed Lieutenant-General Wayne Eyre as Acting Chief of the Defence Staff, while Major-General Derek Macaulay will act as Commander, Canadian Army until further notice.

We thank you for your continued interest and will keep you informed of any releasable information in due course.

Minister’s Statement (Shared with media on Feb 24)

As I have stated, I take all allegations of misconduct seriously and continue to take strong action on any allegation of misconduct that is brought forward. No matter the rank, no matter the position.

The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service can confirm an investigation into Admiral Art McDonald.

I was informed that Admiral Art McDonald has voluntarily stepped aside while the investigation is ongoing.

As of February 24th, I have appointed Lieutenant-General Wayne Eyre as Acting Chief of the Defence Staff.

I will have no further comment at this time due to the ongoing investigation.

Message from Acting CDS (Shared with media on Feb 26)

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces:

I write to you as the Acting Chief of the Defence Staff. I do not know how long I will be in this role, but, in accepting it, I am driven by the imperative to serve both our country and you, the members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Much has occurred over the past weeks, and I know you have questions, but we must allow due process of law to occur; that is the right of every Canadian. I promise that I will be as transparent as I can with you and keep you informed of developments.

In the face of uncertainty we, as an institution, must remain resilient. There is much going on in the world and we must be ready to answer the call of duty. We must continue to focus on the raison d’être of Canada’s military, namely to defend our country and to serve its interests both at home and abroad. To that end, we must continue to focus our efforts and attention to maintain operational relevance and excellence by concentrating on our tradecraft, professionalism, and integrity. 

At the same time, we must strive to ensure we look after our people – all of them – and ensure we are an institution in which Canadians can see themselves. How we do things is as important as what we do.

I will lead you from the front and I expect all leaders to do the same. We have much work to do in all areas as we progress the profession of arms in Canada. I view service in the Canadian Armed Forces as a privilege - let us all keep ourselves worthy of that honour.

Lieutenant-General Wayne Eyre
Acting Chief of the Defence Staff

LCol Taylor

Subject: LCol Taylor

Outlet: CBC / CP

Deadline: 17 March – 1100

Issue:

Outlets are reporting on the matter and seeking DND/CAF comment.

Response:

LCol Taylor is an outstanding officer, respected for her bravery, skills, intellect, and compassion.

She has served as a mentor to many soldiers during her 20+ year career in the Regular and Reserve Forces and her departure will be felt by the Canadian Army as a whole.

As we have said before, there is absolutely no place for any kind of misconduct in the CAF. Not only does it harm our readiness and cohesiveness, but it also affects our ability to retain people. This loss highlights the importance of tackling this issue.

It is clear that the road ahead will not be easy. We have reached out to LCol Taylor to learn from her as part of our ongoing efforts to address broader cultural issues so that the CAF may emerge as a stronger, better, and more effective Force.

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