Lt.-Gen. Mike Wright, the commander of Canada’s army, acknowledged on Wednesday that recent incidents involving alleged extremist activities among soldiers in Quebec and inappropriate social media posts by members of an Ottawa-based reserve unit are once again raising doubts about the credibility and reputation of the Canadian Army. These twin controversies are undermining the trust that the military has been striving to rebuild following a high-profile sexual misconduct scandal that led to the resignation or retirement of several prominent leaders.
The military, facing a significant re-armament program and struggling to recruit and retain personnel after years of underfunding and reduced manpower, is working to restore confidence among the government and Canadians. Lt.-Gen. Wright expressed frustration that the focus on addressing unacceptable behavior is diverting attention from crucial modernization efforts that the Canadian Army needs to undertake.
Recently, the RCMP charged four individuals, including two Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and a former member, for allegedly stockpiling weapons and explosives as part of an extremist plot near Quebec City. Additionally, investigations are underway, including a military police probe, into a disbanded Facebook group linked to the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (Duke of Edinburgh’s Own), where members reportedly shared offensive content.
Concerns about the content of the Facebook group, known as the Blue Hackle Mafia, which included derogatory and hateful remarks, were raised internally last year. The group has been active for over a decade.
Lt.-Gen. Wright emphasized the importance of soldiers speaking out against inappropriate behavior and expressed disappointment that some did not have the moral courage to do so. Following the discovery of the social media group, Lt.-Col. Ryan Hendy, the commanding officer of the Camerons, was temporarily removed from his position. Col. James McKay, his superior, also stepped down over the handling of the matter.
Questions have emerged regarding the military police’s response to complaints about the Facebook group. Retired Lt.-Col. Rory Fowler, representing Hendy, revealed that the military police initially declined to investigate the complaints but have now reopened the case citing new information. Fowler criticized the military police’s handling of the matter, questioning the thoroughness of their initial investigation.
The Canadian Forces Provost Marshal has not disclosed details about the complaints to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Fowler highlighted existing provisions under the National Defence Act to address breaches of discipline and conduct, expressing astonishment at the military police’s earlier decision not to investigate further.