PREFACE

At the outset of our hearings we were confronted with a considerable degree of cynicism, on the part of CF personnel, with respect to what we could accomplish on their behalf. The first question our witnesses confronted us with was, "what exactly can you do for us?" Followed by, "we are tired of being studied, nothing ever happens as a result so why should we have any confidence in you?" Fair questions and understandable ones given what the men and women of the Canadian Forces have been through in the past several years.

We took these questions seriously. However, we are a Committee with advisory powers. We cannot insist, we can only recommend. At the same time, the mere fact that we were asked to undertake such a thorough and wide ranging study leaves us hopeful that the authorities to whom we address our recommendations will listen carefully and act upon them. This report is our response to the concerns put before us and a blueprint for bringing needed changes into effect.

During our hearings and travels we were continually impressed with the dedication and sense of professionalism shown by the members of our military. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who gave of their time and energy to testify or submit written statements.

The Canadian Forces have had to face significant challenges in recent years. Large budget cuts, problems with leadership and poor living conditions have left many wondering whether they can realistically still maintain their commitment to the profession of arms.

Some observers have argued that the failures in leadership are systemic - so widespread that they are almost beyond solution. Others suggest that, while significant, problems of leadership have remained isolated and are being adequately addressed. The debate remains to be solved.

What is not debatable is the fact that the men and women of the Canadian Forces need support. They need the support and financial assistance of their government, so that when tasked they have access to the best equipment available. And, when at home, that they and their families enjoy a decent standard of living. They need the support of the Canadian public, who need to better understand the important contribution CF personnel make to our security and well-being. And, they need the support of the CF leadership who must never put their own interests ahead of those of the troops they command.

Finally, we would like to note that while Committee reports reflect the deliberations of its members others are involved in ensuring their success. A note of thanks must be extended to the technical staff who made our work and travels run smoothly. We owe a special thanks to: our interpreters, who were ever present and performed their duties with a degree of professionalism and good humour rarely matched; to the members of the Standing Committee on National Defence and Veterans Affairs (SCONDVA) support team whose expertise and logistical help proved inestimable to both the members of our Committee and research staff; our Clerk, Eugene Morawski, who kept us organized and always provided sound procedural advice when called upon. And to our advisors from the Parliamentary Research Branch of the Library of Parliament, Wolfgang Koerner and Michel Rossignol for their subject-matter expertise and help in the drafting of our report.