Response from MND: Hidden Battles report

February 28, 2024

 

Gregory A. Lick
Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence
and the Canadian Armed Forces Office of the Ombudsman
100 Metcalfe Street, 12th Floor
Ottawa ON K1P5M1

 

Dear Mr. Lick:

Thank you for your letter of June 29, 2023, which offers me the opportunity to comment on the Ombudsman Report “Hidden Battle: A systemic investigation into the identification of mental health needs and support for Primary Reserves members participating in domestic operations.”

Your recommendations are welcome, and the accompanying dialogue accurately reflects the major concerns and challenges we continue to address. The health of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members is imperative to the operational effectiveness and readiness of the CAF, and the partnership between our members, along with their chains of command and Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) is vital to ensuring that medical support is provided to those in need. We recognize the importance of mental health support and access to mental health care for all military personnel, and we have made significant improvements in building a robust mental health program over the past decades. CFHS is committed to identifying and supporting Primary Reserve members who participate in domestic operations and who are at risk of mental health issues through evidence-based screening, education, counseling, and treatment as appropriate.

We agree with recommendations 1 and 2. There is a mandatory requirement for Post Deployment Screening, and it needs to be consistently applied. The CAF will review the current requirements in the Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC) Standing Operations Order for Domestic Operations (SOODO), and if there is an evidence-based requirement to amend this direction then the appropriate amendments will be made.

We agree with recommendations 3, 4, 5 and 6 and will endeavour to implement the requirements within the timeframe requested but wish to note that identified desire to expand mental health programming will depend on dedicated resourcing of such programs within an environment where mental health specialists are in short supply and in high demand.

The CAF recognizes the sacrifices that Primary Reserve personnel make in the service of their country and leadership is committed to ensuring they receive appropriate health care and support. In saying that, the CAF recognizes there are still obstacles associated with access to mental health care and a requirement for improved communications between the CAF and Primary Reserve members.

Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on your report. Be assured, I remain committed to ensuring the well-being of all members of the Primary Reserve. Your continued support in addressing these vital issues is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely yours,

 

The Honourable Bill Blair, P.C., C.O.M., M.P.

Minister of National Defence

Enclosure