ɫɫ

Skip to main content
You are the owner of this article.
You have permission to edit this article.
Edit
For Subscribers Federal Politics

How Canada’s military fell into crisis — and why failing to save it has deep consequences for us all

Canada’s military is facing a series of problems that without a serious infusion of cash and attention from the federal government could threaten our standing n a more unpredictable world. 

Updated
7 min read
na-military-feb22_WEB.jpg

Recent stats, from the 2021-22 fiscal year, show the military dealt with “critical shortfalls” in more than 61 per cent of its occupations — up from 17.9 per cent two years earlier and much higher than the target of no more than five per cent. 


OTTAWA—On paper, she seems to be exactly what the Canadian military needs. An enthusiastic would-be recruit, married to a current soldier, and already living on the Canadian forces’ base at Petawawa.

But it has been months, she said, and she hasn’t heard back on even the first step of her application — despite a number of failed attempts to wrangle information from a recruitment call centre. Added to this was the discovery of what she claimed was lead paint on the walls of their army-issued house, and the couple is on the verge of quitting for civilian life. 

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Politics Headlines Newsletter
Get the latest news and unmatched insights in your inbox every evening

You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our and . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google and apply.

Alex Ballingall

Alex Ballingall is the Deputy Ottawa Bureau Chief for the Star. Email him at aballingall@thestar.ca

More from The Star & partners

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

To join the conversation set a first and last name in your user profile.

Conversations are opinions of our readers and are subject to the Community Guidelines. ɫɫ Star does not endorse these opinions.