PAST CHAIRPERSON'S MESSAGE

I am still amazed that, in a scant three months, the Complaints Commission made the journey from legislative text to a fully operational organization, receiving and investigating complaints and requests for review and issuing reports. That this was possible is testament to the efforts of many dedicated people.

It would be impossible for me to name all of those who played a part in the creation of the Complaints Commission, but I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the exceptional support and loyalty I received from founding part-time members, the late Thomas G. Flanagan, S.C., and Paul E. Duffie, Q.C.

From its inception, I envisioned an organization that would focus on serving the needs of its clients, whether complainants or the subjects of complaint. The quality of client services - to handle every request with kindness and courtesy, and to treat those in difficulty with understanding - has been my constant priority. It is truly gratifying to be able to say the Military Police Complaints Commission continues to put service to people ahead of all else. In so doing, the Complaints Commission is able to fulfill a role of fundamental importance in assuring Canadians that allegations of misconduct against Canadian Forces Military Police are investigated fully and fairly, and that military police are able to carry out their investigations free of interference from the chain of command.

The past five years have been filled with the challenges inherent in constructing a new organization and bringing civilian oversight of Canada's military police service to its current level of maturity. While we were not always successful in overcoming the challenges set before us, neither did they defeat us.

I am proud to have led the team that built the Military Police Complaints Commission into the professional, effective and efficient organization it is today, and also of the contributions this organization has made to enhance Canadians' confidence in the Canadian Forces Military Police. Equally, I am grateful for the opportunity to have enjoyed the support of the current part-time members of the Military Police Complaints Commission: Peter Seheult, Odilon Emond and Henry Kostuck and to my staff, who share in these achievements, and who have provided friendships and memories that I shall cherish always.

Louise Cobetto
Chairperson, 1999 - 2004

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