Statement from the Ombudsman on the VCDS update on recommendations regarding the Valcartier Grenade Incident in 1974 (July 29, 2016)

 

On 28 July 2015 I released a report into the treatment of Army Cadets affected by a deadly grenade explosion which occurred at a Cadet Summer Camp on Canadian Armed Forces Base Valcartier, Quebec in July 1974.
 

The report focused on the treatment of those cadets affected by the deadly explosion which killed six and injured dozens.
 

I made two recommendations to the Minister of National Defence and Department of National Defence.
 

1)    Given that at least 53 percent of the former cadets who directly witnessed or were injured in the incident still seem to be suffering from physical and/or psychological injuries, it is recommended that, under the authority of the Minister of National Defence, the Department of National Defence immediately offer assessments to all those who claim to have been adversely or permanently affected by this incident to determine the physical and psychological care required and, based on these assessments, fund a reasonable care plan. These individuals deserve and need an opportunity to access mental health care.
 

2)    Following the full assessment and definition of the long-term needs of the affected individuals, and in order to ensure that they are treated in a way that reflects Canadian values, it is recommended that the Department of National Defence, under the direction of the Minister, award them an immediate and reasonable financial compensation in line with jurisprudence in similar situations.
 

Both were accepted.
 

I am pleased by the update provided by the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. Medical assessments have and are being done and from these assessments long term treatment plans are being developed.  This, in my opinion, was the most critical. Financial compensation will further assist those impacted to help improve their quality of life moving forward, I will continue to monitor the implementation of our recommendations to ensure the affected individuals receive the care they need and compensation they deserve.
 

I would like to thank all those who have helped correct this unfairness, and to the Government of Canada and the Department of National Defence for the positive response to our recommendations.