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Grievance Review Process

Here is a brief look at the general CF grievance process.

Who can grieve?

Any officer or non-commissioned member who has been aggrieved by any decision, act or omission in the administration of the affairs of the CF.

Reviewing a Grievance

The first level is the Initial Authority (IA), who is in a position to review the grievance and grant redress. Any grievor who is not satisfied with this initial decision may submit an application for review to the CDS, who represents the second and final level in the grievance procedure. This is where to Board comes into play.

The CFGB has the jurisdiction to deal with grievances related to the administration of the affairs of the CF with the following major features:

1. The Board makes findings and provides recommendations in relation to grievances submitted to the CDS;
2. The CDS is not bound by the findings and recommendations of the Board but is required to provide reasons in writing in such a case;
3. The Board has the authority to conduct hearings, summon witnesses and compel the production of documents.

Referral to Grievance Board

Under Chapter 7.12 of the Queen's Regulations and Orders for the CF, the Board reviews grievances related to the following matters:

• administrative action resulting in the forfeiture of, or deductions from, pay and allowances, reversion to a lower rank or release from the Canadian Forces;
• the application or interpretation of Canadian Forces policies relating to expression of personal opinions, political activities and candidature for office, civil employment, conflict of interest and post-employment compliance measures, harassment or racist conduct;
• pay, allowances and other financial benefits; and
• the entitlement to medical or dental treatment.

In addition, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) shall refer to the Board every grievance concerning a decision or an act in which he is personally involved in respect of a particular officer or non-commissioned member. The CDS also has the discretionary power to refer any other type of grievance to the Board for review.