Relief of Duties for Member Deployed on Operation REASSURANCE – Maritime Task Force

Statement

October 4, 2022 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

On October 2, 2022, Vice-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC) relieved the Executive Officer of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Kingston of her duties as a result of an alleged incident of inappropriate conduct of a sexualized nature that took place during a port visit in Lisbon, Portugal, while deployed on Operation REASSURANCE. The allegations have not been proven and an investigation into this incident is ongoing. 

Commander CJOC and the Commanders of each service that generates personnel for operations, expect all their members to exercise institutionally appropriate judgment at all times, especially when in a clear leadership or command role. This measure was deemed necessary to ensure effective leadership in HMCS Kingston as it continues its deployment with Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1. 

The Royal Canadian Navy has confirmed the member will serve in other roles within Maritime Forces Atlantic Headquarters in Canada until the conclusion of the investigation. Procedural fairness and independence remain priorities and are respected throughout all Canadian Armed Forces investigations and administrative processes.

Contacts

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

Search for related information by keyword: Military | National Defence | Chile | Public Service and Military | general public | statements

Page details

Date modified: