CFGB Visits CFB Esquimalt

November 18, 2011

Members of the CFGB delegation abord of the Orca class training vessel.

On November 16 to 18, 2011, a delegation from the Canadian Forces Grievance Board (CFGB), headed by the Board's Chairperson, Bruno Hamel, visited the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt.

During the visit, the Board's delegation met with senior leadership and various stakeholders involved in conflict resolution at the base. The Board also held a townhall meeting which provided an opportunity to explain the distinct and independent role the CFGB plays in the military grievance process. It also allowed for direct exchanges about issues and concerns related to complaint resolution, as well as trends and dissatisfiers identified by the Board through its review of grievances.

The delegation toured selected facilities including an Orca class training vessel. We were offered the opportunity to visit the Navy’s newest training vessel, including the training simulators. We also had the privilege to sail for a day, aboard HMCS REGINA and witnessed, first hand, the Royal Canadian Navy at work. The Board was impressed by the ship’s very dedicated, professional and enthusiastic crew, the Chairperson said.

In addition to the Chairperson, the Board's delegation included the Vice-Chairperson, Jim Price, Board members Denis Brazeau, Michael Auger, Carina De Pellegrin and Frederick Blair, the Director of Operations and General Counsel, Caroline Maynard, Team Leader, Michael MacPherson, as well as the Communications manager, Najwa Asmar.

The Board makes periodic visits to Canadian Forces (CF) formations/units to learn about taskings and activities and to see, first hand, CF members in the environment in which they serve. In turn, the Board holds briefings, both formal and informal, where all ranks are encouraged to participate in grievance related discussions.