Canada’s new East Coast navy commander says people and training are his priority

Halifax - The new commander of Canada's Royal Navy on the East Coast has emphasized training and caring for his personnel as his main priorities. Rear Admiral Pascal Belhumeur took charge of Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic on Tuesday, succeeding Rear Admiral Josée Kurtz. Belhumeur highlights recruitment as a historical challenge, but notes the navy has exceeded its targets recently.

He stresses the importance of training the new recruits, stating that the navy is ensuring ample opportunities during their sea duties. Belhumeur tells reporters, "My priorities here are... our people, developing our people, taking care of our people, because people are our capability."