Ombud Update: Service versus Self: A systemic investigation into contingency cost moves for personal reasons, compassionate status, and compassionate postings in the Canadian Armed Forces

Ombud Message | 27 June 2025

In May 2022, we released Service versus Self: A systemic investigation into contingency cost moves for personal reasons, compassionate status, and compassionate postings in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). The investigation sought to examine whether these mechanisms—designed to provide flexibility and support to members facing exceptional personal circumstances—were being applied fairly, consistently, and with due regard for the well-being of those affected.

The report identified significant challenges faced by members seeking support during times of personal hardship, and it offered a series of recommendations aimed at improving fairness, transparency, and flexibility in the administration of these programs.

Since the release of the report, we have closely monitored the CAF’s response to these recommendations.

We are pleased to report that with the publication of the Canadian Armed Forces Military Personnel Instruction 02/25 – Contingency Cost Moves for Personal Reasons, Compassionate Status and Compassionate Posting and the website Contingency Cost Move (CCM) and Compassionate Status/Posting, all recommendations have now been fully implemented. 

We would like to take the opportunity to highlight that no other report issued by this office in the past decade has seen the full implementation of all recommendations within three years of publication. This reflects a degree of institutional willingness to address long-standing concerns. 

We remain steadfast in our mission to promote fairness, equity, and respect for all members of the Defence community. I extend my sincere thanks to those who supported the implementation of these recommendations and to the leadership of the CAF for their ongoing collaboration.

 

Robyn Hynes 

Interim Ombud