Canadian Rangers lack support and health care access, military ombudsman says – CBC

Canadian Armed Forces ombudsman investigating Canadian Ranger program following deaths

Jan 23, 2017

The Canadian Rangers are not getting access to the health care services they deserve and lack sufficient support staff, according to the Canadian Forces ombudsman’s initial investigation into Canada’s northern patrol units.

The Rangers are part of the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve, but are not considered reservists. Generally they are part-time volunteers from the remote communities where they serve. Often called the “eyes and ears of Canada’s North,” they are responsible for reporting unusual activities, collecting data to support military operations and conducting surveillance when required in Canada’s North.

“Anyone who’s joined the Canadian Armed Forces and has committed their side of the obligation leaves us with an obligation. That is to ensure that they’re well managed and well taken care of, if they should become ill or injured,” Gary Walbourne, the Canadian Forces ombudsman, said in an interview with CBC News.

Read More: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canadian-rangers-arctic-patrol-reserves-1.3938299