Response from MND: Fair Decision-making for Fair Outcomes report

21 May 2024

 

Dear Mr. Lick:

Thank you for your letter of April 19, 2024, with which you enclose the report Fair Decision-making for Fair Outcomes: Administrative Processes at the Department of National Defence.

The investigative team was diligent throughout the process, and the recommendations will prove to be very helpful in enhancing our current efforts. The report's findings mostly align with a number of initiatives already underway. I have been advised by the Deputy Minister as the functional authority for Human Resources that he agrees with the findings and that the Department is committed to addressing the recommendations contained in the report, while aligning with Treasury Board direction and existing legislative requirements. We will return with an action plan to address the recommendations by June 3, 2024.

In particular, the investigation highlights several concerns regarding the administration of the policy framework for workplace harassment and violence as well as for individual grievances including, but not limited to, clear and accessible process descriptions and mechanisms to address frivolous or vexatious grievances. It is recognized that the Department can improve on ensuring process clarity for employees and ensuring the appropriate mechanisms are in place to achieve fair outcomes for all parties.

As well, the Department will maintain a strong focus on improving data integrity, education, and process improvements. The departmental financial system does not presently allow for investigation costing to be aggregated but will work to determine feasibility. I have asked that the Deputy Minister pay particular attention to and monitor initiatives to ensure that progress is being made to the workplace harassment and violence resolution process and the civilian individual grievance program within the confines of the various legislation and policies by which they are governed.

I look forward to our offices working together in support of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces.

Sincerely,

 

The Honourable Bill Blair, P.C., C.O.M., M.P.

Minister of National Defence