April 13, 2006

Senator Downe has written to Prime Minister Stephen Harper seeking his support for legislation he introduced in the Senate on April 5, 2006, that would amend the Public Service Employment Act.

The intent of the legislation is to permit Canadian Forces members who have served in a war zone to be given priority to all others applying for a position in the Federal Public Service after the conclusion of their military service.

“Prime Minister Harper has the opportunity to support Canadian Forces members by fast tracking Public Service employment opportunities for retiring CF members who have served in a conflict zone,” Senator Downe said. “To date, Prime Minister Harper has spoken in support of Canadian Forces members, but has not followed up his words with any concrete actions.”

As the Canadian Forces take on more difficult tasks around the world, it is important to offer enhanced rewards and incentives to Canadian Forces veterans, says Senator Downe.

“As Canadians watch events unfold in Afghanistan, I think we are all deeply impressed by the courage of the men and women serving in that difficult war zone,” Senator Downe said. “I believe we have to match our admiration with innovations in public service that offer veterans stable, long-term career prospects upon conclusion of their military work.”

Last year, the Senate National Finance Committee heard testimony that the average age of retirees from the Canadian Forces is 36.

“Many Canadians who serve in the military leave at a relatively young age - and the skills and experience they have gained can serve the public in many different and valuable ways,” Senator Downe said.

Additionally, Senator Downe said that most Canadians recognize that military service is increasingly dangerous.

“I believe that if Canadians are willing to risk their lives in our defence, then we should offer them career paths that will extend beyond their military service,” the Senator said.

In reiterating his point, the Senator said that priority service for veterans could be modelled on the current system for political staff.

This is identical to the priority already offered to political staff of federal Cabinet ministers who have worked for three years - and are entitled to be appointed without competition in priority to all others applying for a position in the Public Service for which they are qualified.

“Canadian Forces Members who serve in war zones deserve the same priority to enter the federal Public Service as political staff of federal Cabinet ministers,” stated Senator Downe.