# 2024-071 Pay and Benefits, Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive, Class B Reserve Service, Imposed Restriction

Case summary

F&R Date: 2025-03-27

The grievor, a Primary Reservist, disputed the fact that Reserve Force (Res F) and Regular Force officers selected to attend the 11-month National Security Programme (NSP) are not entitled to the same relocation benefits under the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD). As redress, the grievor requested the implementation of mechanisms to ensure equitable treatment between the two components, as well as the provision of a full-time contract that would allow them to claim relocation expenses to Toronto while attending the NSP.

As a subject matter expert, the Director Reserve Force Integration and Modernization (DRFIM) explained that the CAFRD policy was written with reserve periods of service longer than one year in mind, and any amendment would require the Treasury Board (TB) approval. The DRFIM also clarified that the current process for sending selected Primary Reserve members to the NSP involves them encumbering a Permanent Class “B” position within their unit or Primary Reserve List.

The Initial Authority did not render a decision within the prescribed timeline.

The Committee found that the grievor was treated fairly and recommended that the Final Authority (FA) not afford the grievor redress. The Committee explained that, as a member of the Res F, the grievor must meet certain criteria to be eligible for relocation benefits, and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has no discretion in applying the CAFRD, which is a policy set by the TB. However, the Committee made an observation to reflect that more streamlined and efficient methods could be implemented to facilitate the participation of Res F candidates in courses like the NSP, which would serve the best interests of the candidates and enhance overall system efficiency. The Committee also stated that it would be equitable for candidates from both components to receive the same relocation benefits. Therefore, the Committee recommended that the FA direct the CAF to review the conditions of service for Res F members attending programs such as the NSP, with the aim of ensuring equitable treatment across all components.