Message from CRCN: Accusations against the Chief of the Defence Staff
February 26, 2021
Shipmates,
I’d like to echo the message that you will have already seen from the Acting Chief of the Defence Staff and the Deputy Minister.
It is critically important that we all retain confidence in the process – that our shipmates know where to turn, and feel confident that if they bring allegations forward, the allegations will be treated seriously and investigated, while also letting the disciplinary and administrative system do its job, safeguarding due process. We all have to have trust in the system, and as this week has shown, allegations will be treated seriously, no matter who they involve.
If you have experienced incidents of misconduct, I encourage you to bring them forward to your chain of command. Alternatively, you can consider reaching out to the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (1-844-750-1648, SMRC-CIIS.MND@forces.gc.ca), the Canadian Armed Forces Helpline (1-833-328-3351), Canadian Forces Military Police or your local police. You are not alone – help is available if needed.
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Royal Canadian Navy Insignia
When I assumed command I told you that my keystone objective is ‘respect’ – for the Royal Canadian Navy, for yourself, and for your shipmates. By showing respect for each other we both show and earn trust – and are seen to have each other’s back. Our cohesion and operational effectiveness depends on this. If you do not embrace and demonstrate respect, or if you espouse hatred, racist, or misogynistic views, than you have no place in our ranks.
We must remain resilient while supporting Canada’s defence needs with operations around the globe, while concurrently building the future platforms and training systems that will take us into the coming decades. Culture change must result in an organization in which everyone is welcomed and included, feels safe to be their authentic selves in their workplace, and is judged solely on their competence and contributions to Canada’s defence goals. This is the right path to a bright future, one that we can only forge by working together, with respect.
Yours aye,
Vice-Admiral Craig Baines
Commander Royal Canadian Navy