Response From MDN: Canadian Ranger Instructor Ratios

March 01 2018

Mr. Gary Walbourne
Office of the Ombudsman
National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman
100 Metcalfe Street, 12th Floor
Ottawa ON K1P 5M1

 

Dear Mr. Walbourne:

I would like to thank you for your continued interest in the Canadian Rangers and, in particular, Canadian Ranger Instructor support. I am pleased to provide you with a brief update on Canadian Ranger growth to date as well as the forecast for future expansion.

The Canadian Rangers have grown in number to approximately 5000 strong in 180 patrols across the country. In line with Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, we plan to further expand the Canadian Rangers over the next four years.

To support this growth, we are increasing the number of full-time staff, including Canadian Ranger Instructors, in each of the Canadian Ranger Patrol Group Headquarters. We currently have a 1:4 Canadian Ranger Instructor to Patrol Ratio. As part of our plan, and as the number of patrols increases, there will be commensurate growth in the number of supporting staff to ensure that the Canadian Ranger Instructor ratio is maintained.

I agree that establishing and maintaining the appropriate level of staff support for the Canadian Rangers is of utmost importance. My top priority as Minister of National Defence is our people. I am personally dedicated to ensuring we put our people first, and that means giving them the training, the equipment, and most importantly, the support they need.

I am pleased with the ongoing work of the Canadian Army and understand that there is much work ahead of us.

Thank you, again, for your important work and valued advice on this file.

Yours sincerely,

 

The Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, PC, OMM, MSM, CD, MP