Canadian Rangers getting short-changed on equipment, funding
The Canadian Rangers — the country’s frontline defence in the far north — are getting short-changed by the military, warn supporters of the army reservists.
Blake Desjarlais, an NDP MP representing Edmonton Griesbach, recently raised concerns at the House of Commons public accounts committee that the Rangers, who use their own gear while on military operations, are facing roadblocks in receiving compensation for the use of that equipment.
MP cites lack of housing and health care
Lori Idlout, another NDP MP representing the riding of Nunavut, said she had heard those and additional concerns from Rangers in the communities she represents, citing issues about a lack of support from the Canadian Forces over equipment and complaints of a lack of housing and health care.
That situation must change if governments are to get serious about Canada’s Arctic security, Idlout said in an interview.
The Canadian Rangers use their own snowmobiles and boats during military operations, but reimbursement for repairs of gear damaged during operations doesn’t cover the high costs of having replacement parts shipped to the Arctic.
Read the full story in David Pugliese’s Defence Watch on the Ottawa Citizen website.
PHOTO: Canadian Rangers are essential to Canadian military operations in the Arctic.
CREDIT: David Pugliese.
