CFB Wainwright incident casts spotlight on reserve pay disparities: former bureaucrat

Former Canadian Forces major-general John Milne says the fatal incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright highlights unequal pay and benefits for reserve soldiers. Milne explained that reservists on short-term contracts are paid less than regular force members despite facing similar risks. This disparity is due to the complex pay structure based on service classes and other factors.

Milne advocates for equal pay and benefits, arguing that the current formula gives reservists a 32% earnings penalty compared to regular force members. He believes the daily rate for reservists should match that of regular force personnel to ensure equity. Milne also pointed out that injured reservists typically receive lower-tier compensation and benefits.

Military pay is a complex matter, influenced by factors such as civilian employment and military service classes, which are not as straightforward as those for regular force personnel. Despite the Canadian Armed Forces Ombud raising concerns about reservist pay inequities for years, little progress has been made. Milne hopes the government will address this issue after sending a submission to the House of Commons national defence committee and directly contacting Defence Minister David McGuinty.