A basic training course at CFB Esquimalt has been axed and three candidates have been removed pending further investigation, following sexual harassment and racism allegations.
Between February 15th and March 9th, the course at Naval Fleet School saw numerous incidents breach Royal Canadian Navy ethics and values, public affairs officer Lt-Cmdr. Anthony Wright says.
According to Wright, one incident saw recruits make a text group chat where a sexually explicit photo was shared. The person responsible for sharing the photo was kicked off the course and recommended for release from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Wright notes that two other recruits were also removed from the course following inappropriate sexualized comments made towards an instructor.
Meanwhile, he says investigations are now underway after a racist and hateful message was found on a recruit’s personal equipment, with a second racist message implying physical harm found on another recruit’s equipment.
And while physical harm was not acted upon, Wright says it doesn’t reduce the seriousness of the incidents.
“Harmful behaviour, especially racist behaviour has no place within our ranks,” he told Victoria Buzz.
“As a result, training has been terminated, and Progress Review Boards are being convened for all recruit candidates. Those candidates deemed suitable for retention will be returned to the Naval Training System at the earliest opportunity.”
An impartial, experienced team of assessors will meet with each recruit one-on-one, allowing for information to be gathered to develop plans for each candidate moving forward, explains Wright.
Fifty-one recruits started the course, but 16 left for various reasons, including voluntary release or medical grounds, which is to be expected. That brings the class count down to 32 when deducting the three recruits since removed.
But that figure could dwindle even more.
“There are ongoing investigations into these incidents, the findings of which may result in further releases, administrative action, disciplinary measures, or criminal charges,” said Wright.
‘This is a rare occurrence’
Lt-Cmdr. Anthony Wright says this is “a rare occurrence.”
That’s because CAF recruitment processes include criminal record checks, employment history checks, and personal interviews to assess potential suitability.
“However, no method of candidate screening is perfect,” noted Wright.
“As a result, on rare occasions, poor candidates can potentially slip by without any indicators of malevolent motivation.”
According to Wright, the recruits are now under supervision and have been moved into individual accommodations at CFB Esquimalt, after the training course was terminated on March 11th.
“Support and resources are being made available to the affected recruits and staff, including access to mental health professionals,” he added.
“We recognize the lasting harm that incidents of misconduct such as these can cause, and ensuring the well-being of those affected is our primary concern.”
