Summary
"There is no question that the establishment of independent oversight by the Commission has been a positive development. At the same time, some five years after its introduction, it is clear the existing process for the investigation and review of complaints about the conduct of military police does not meet current standards of fairness, transparency and effectiveness for civilian oversight of policing. There are important gaps in the oversight body's authority. Under the provisions of the current legislation, the resolution of complaints can often be needlessly cumbersome, thus providing poor value to Canadians. In addition, the mechanism for detecting and investigating interference with military police - a key part of the Commission's mandate - is less than adequate. As a result of these shortcomings, some of the intended benefits of civilian oversight of military policing are at risk. Addressing these shortcomings and advancing both the effectiveness and the efficiency of civilian oversight of military police would not require a radical departure from the existing provisions of the Act. However, the Commission is concerned that an important opportunity to recognize and take actions that can correct these problems is slipping away. The Government of Canada is now considering whether further amendments should be made to the National Defence Act following the five-year independent review of the Act, led by former Chief Justice Antonio Lamer. The Complaints Commission believes a number of important issues still need to be addressed. Accordingly, the Commission believes this is an opportune time to issue this Special Report, in the hope of bringing the attention of Parliamentarians and all Canadians to the importance of strengthening civilian oversight of Canada's military policing."