Happy birthday to Sidney Crosby, hockey player, the youngest to record 200 career points
THAT NOVA SCOTIA HOCKEY MAFIA- LOVE YA
Sidney Crosby’s Birthday skate
VIDEO
Sidney Crosby celebrated his 26th birthday in Halifax today with a final skate before heading to Los Angeles. The Pittsburgh Penguins captain has been home skating with a group of NHL and AHL players for the past 3 weeks at the Civic Arena in Halifax. The group includes Brad Marchand, Matt Duchene, Andrew McDonald, Andrew Gordon, Andrew Bodnarchuk & Alex Grant.
http://sportsandmoore.com/sidney-crosbys-birthday-skate/
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Canadian military revises 2011 suicide stats and asks tough questions of itself
OTTAWA - Every time he picked up a pen to sign a letter of condolence to the family of a dead soldier, Lt.-Gen. Peter Devlin asked himself hard, painful questions about the institution to which he had devoted his life.
During Devlin's three years as the country's top soldier, there were an awful lot of those letters to sign. Stacks of his briefing notes are laced with censored references to the letters.
Whether it was in combat, by accident or by suicide, there was always a moment of reflection before pen went to paper, he said. But when the soldier's death was self-inflicted, the questions seemed to loom larger.
"It hurts," said Devlin, who retires Thursday as the commander of the Canadian Army. "I wonder about whether we, the army and the Canadian Forces did all that we could have, (and) should have."
Just recently, the Canadian military quietly added two more soldiers to the list of those who killed themselves in 2011, according to internal National Defence records.
Twenty-two soldiers have now been declared as having died by suicide the same year the army ended its combat mission in Afghanistan, says the military's latest report on suicide in its ranks.
The study, which looked back at data over a decade, concluded the war in Afghanistan — or any deployment, for that matter — isn't a risk factor for suicide and that the overall rate of serving soldiers who kill themselves remains steady.
"Suicide rates in the CF did not increase over time, and after age standardization, they were lower that those in the Canadian population," says the March 2013 study, a copy of which was obtained by The Canadian Press.
In the report, the military said that 10 male and three female soldiers committed suicide in 2012, compared with 21 men and one woman the previous year. The report offers no explanation for the difference.
Data released in April of last year said there were 20 suicides in 2011; the military said the discrepancy was due to the fact that investigations into the two additional deaths had yet to be completed when the original data was released.
The way the military addresses suicide and mental health in general has been changing, spurred on incrementally by the trauma of a bitter five-year guerilla war in the wastelands of Kandahar.
And despite myriad new support programs and millions of dollars being poured into mental health, a key aspect of the problem remains stubbornly slow to change — attitude.
Despite high-profile internal media campaigns and speeches from senior commanders, the fear that reaching out for help would be bad for a soldier's career causes many of them to choose instead to suffer in silence.
"I am hoping our culture changes and grows and becomes more open to emotional challenges and emotional issues," Devlin said. "I hope we are doing everything we can and should do to support our men and women in uniform."
Attitude is one thing, but whether the Defence Department is giving itself a clear picture of the problem of suicide is up for debate.
The study noted the data on suicides includes only includes only regular force, and not reservists who made up an increasing number of the battle groups that went into Kandahar.
"There is a high turnover for Class A reservists and suicides among this group are generally reported and investigated outside the military system unless they are specifically brought to the attention of DND," the report says.
"The number at risk is also uncertain due to the high turnover such that the definition of an active reservist is unclear."
The military's annual report also doesn't discuss what happens to former soldiers.
A 2011 study done by Statistics Canada and the Defence Department found that among soldiers released from the military, the risk of suicide was about one and a half times higher than in the general male population.
Still, the Canadian numbers pale in comparison to what's happening in the United States. There, 349 active and reserve duty soldiers died from suicide in 2012, up from 301 in 2011.
"That's how it used to be in the U.S. 10 years ago," said Craig Bryan, the associate director of the National Center for Veterans Studies at the University of Utah.
"Times have changed."
In the United States, the prevailing theory is that suicide rates are on the rise because the military is overtaxed after more than a decade of extensive operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, Bryan said.
But the U.S. military is not the only one in that position, he noted; suicide rates in the U.K., for example, do not mirror those in America.
Other countries — including Canada — have done a better job of understanding the needs of their veterans, Bryan suggested. Decompression centres and post-deployment screening are two ideas borrowed from the Canadians, he said.
"The military is a part of our society," Bryan said.
"We have to — just as a community and a society — accept responsibility for mental health illness and make sure that we're doing everything we can to improve the quality of lives for our veterans and all members of our community."
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Canada’s broken soldiers, Canada’s broken system
A much-admired military unit that has helped many injured and mentally ill Canadian veterans has deteriorated so badly it’s now in crisis itself
By Chris Cobb, Ottawa Citizen
CPL. Glen Kirkland, in wheelchair, a former client and critic of the JPSU: ‘They should be teaching guys to get out of the system and not be patrons at a coffee shop. They don’t need sergeants … they need baristas.’
Photograph by: Tobi Cohen , THE CANADIAN PRESS
The Canadian military created its Joint Personnel Support Unit almost five years ago to give hope and help to the flood of physically and mentally injured soldiers coming home from Afghanistan and those still damaged from previous missions. Eight regional JPSUs would oversee 24 troop support centres and dozens of smaller satellite facilities scattered across the country. The ill and injured would be assigned to Support Platoons.
The 24 new units, or Integrated Personnel Support Centres, would be holistic and offer well-staffed programs that would support and enable troops posted into the unit to get proper medical mental health treatment and the chance to resume their careers or, more likely, be "transitioned out" into the civilian world with sellable skills and jobs to go to.
It was all very appealing to Barry Westholm, a veteran with three decades of tough soldiering under his belt and the emotional scars to show for it.
Westholm was a member of the Canadian Airborne Regiment when it was disbanded in 1995 and had also served in Cambodia, Syria and Haiti. He was back at CFB Petawawa as a master warrant officer in 2007 when he began seeing young soldiers returning from Afghanistan.
"They had all aged from when I’d last seen them," he recalls, "and a lot of them were coming back with injuries. It wasn’t uncommon for me to have them crying at my desk. There was no system to support them."
Westholm joined the JPSU system in February 2009 as the first Regional Sergeant Major and senior non-commissioned officer of the vast Eastern Ontario Region that includes Petawawa, Ottawa, Kingston, Trenton and North Bay.
Under a previous system, barely one per cent of troops made it back to work in the military but JPSU and its network of support centres was initially able to push that to almost 20 per cent.
"It’s been a fantastic achievement," adds Westholm, "but equally important is how we’ve transitioned some people for the civilian environment as opposed to the previous ‘goodbye, it’s been nice to know you.’
"People had a place to go where they would be treated with respect and cared for," he says. "They get training, take courses and even work part time in the civilian environment to get used to the rhythm. So they leave with a useful tool box."
But increased demand, burned out and departed staff and lack of resources means that many of the support units have gone from good to bad to worse to dysfunctional, according to Westholm and several other serving and retired Canadian Forces members. Documents obtained by the Citizen confirm their assessment.
The trend, they say, is a reflection of the federal government’s lack of commitment and a persistent refusal by the upper crust of Canada’s military to provide the resources and innovation necessary to cope with an overwhelming demand that only seems likely to increase as military personnel who served in Afghanistan emerge from the incubation period that typically precedes mental breakdown — and countless others who will no longer be able to hide the mental illnesses they fear will meet a prevalent stigma and end their military careers.
Frustrated at the persistent refusals from superiors for extra help, 50-year-old Westholm quit his job earlier this year and circulated his two-page resignation letter to a range of influential government and military people, hoping for a reaction that never came.
"I couldn’t collect a paycheque to be part of that anymore," says Westholm, who says he jumped before he was pushed after being told that JPSU brass wasn’t interested in reading any more memos begging for increased resources.
"We were overwhelmed and had senior medical staff telling us that a wave (of mental illness) was coming. So I said we have to get busy to prepare for these troops. They said ‘no way.’ I thought that if I cc’d enough people someone would say ‘hey, what’s going on?’"
Retired Brigadier-general Joe Sharpe, a respected voice on military mental health, says Westholm’s concerns are well-founded.
"I maintain a lot of contact with soldiers across the country and I see us falling back in the trap where the public perception comes first and the soldiers come second," he says. "In the early 1990s we went through budget cuts and were abandoning soldiers right left and centre. Senior leadership today is focused on resources, media and public perceptions. It’s a recipe for disaster."
Cpl. Glen Kirkland, a severely injured Afghanistan veteran who testified at a parliamentary committee hearing in June about his struggle to get adequate coverage for his ongoing medical treatment, is officially assigned to JPSU at CFB Shilo, Manitoba — a unit he says is hopelessly failing its ill and injured.
"It’s a coffee shop and a ridiculous waste of manpower," he says. "I’m considered one of their bad soldiers because when I got to JPSU, I’m like ‘I can’t sit here and rot, I need to do something with my life.’ I went out and got a university education and got a trade.
"They should be teaching guys to get out of the system and not be patrons at a coffee shop," he adds. "They don’t need sergeants and warrants, they need baristas."
The JPSU needs a different structure with more committed and qualified staff, says Kirkland, who has been building a successful career as a real estate agent while awaiting his release.
"Something needs to change because guys are going there to rot," he says, "The sergeants and warrants charged with running the system have done their 30 years. They aren’t necessarily suited to the job. You ask them ‘do you like your job’ and they’ll say ‘no, I don’t like my job because I have to deal with whiny soldiers all day.
"The army doesn’t look after its injured soldiers," he says. "If I had worked at Walmart I would have been looked after better."
Nadia Pardy, who was posted into the JPSU system at Petawawa because of physical injury when JPSU was in its infancy, says she fared well at a time when the unit was fully functioning.
"When you spend the largest part of your adult life in the forces it becomes a part of who you are," she says. "Many of us do not know how to go forward and start over when it was never in our original plans. Injured and disabled soldiers, sailors and airmen need support in finding a purpose and gainful employment outside the Canadian Armed Forces. I do not see how they can downsize the support when the number of members needing the support is steadily increasing."
The JPSU decline also contravenes the federal government and DND’s much touted "Taking Care of Our Own" policy signed last year by former Chief of Defence Staff Walt Natynczyk.
According to DND, support units across Canada are currently "offering direct assistance" through JPSU to 5,418 ill and injured members and 533 families of soldiers killed while on duty.
But the Eastern Ontario Region support system is in trouble — a situation flagged to Westholm in an email two years ago from a Kingston colleague.
"I am currently unable to stay ahead of the curve and am not able to complete the bulk of the tasks that are expected of me," said the colleague. "I find my involvement with our most severe cases takes a huge chunk of my time."
The situation in Kingston has deteriorated since then, says Westholm, who keeps in regular touch with his former JPSU colleagues across the region.
"There are 82 people posted to the Support Platoon in Kingston and only one military JPSU person there to take care of them," he says.
He has had similar appeals for help from Ottawa and Petawawa where unit brass have admitted that the current system is unworkable and ordered fast-track structural changes.
In an email written three weeks ago, Petawawa’s Integrated Personnel Support Centre (IPSC) commander Capt. Kevin Lamorie told his staff that "due to current manning levels" the ill and injured will not be assigned to a specific commander but to whomever is available, and more administrative work will be done by the unit’s client service representatives, whose primary tasks since the system’s inception has been helping the injured troops. In his email, obtained by the Citizen, Lamorie warns that the measures will be in place until as least September and thanks staff for their patience "during this extremely trying time for the IPSC."
The Petawawa system, equipped to cope with 30 ill and injured, are currently dealing with almost 200, says Westholm.
"In Petawawa they are in 100 per cent scramble mode trying to keep it together," says Westholm. "It’s a desperate situation."
Jan Stroud, a clinical social worker who treated many Afghan veterans at CFB Petawawa before leaving last year, says the new directive is a clear signal that the situation at the base support unit is dire.
"It tells me they’re not even hiding any more how serious it is," she says. "Not only are soldiers not going to get what they need but they are going to be put in a queue and it will be by gosh or by golly what’s going to happen to them."
Client service representatives — former dealing directly with ill and injured troops at Petawawa — are becoming administration clerks, she adds.
"They are exceptional people and would go to unbelievable lengths to get soldiers what they need. They provided a safe haven for soldiers where they could talk about their problems and challenges."
The support unit at CFB Petawawa began seeing young Afghanistan war veterans of various ranks and occupations — medics, padres, military police officers, mechanics and other support trades — who had seen the violent deaths of colleagues or dealt with the aftermath.
"There were people who had to clean out the vehicles soldiers had died in," says Westholm. "Or the post office clerks who had to intercept the mail going to the deceased or send effects of the deceased back home. Yesterday he or she had given you a parcel to mail and you were talking to them at your wicket and today they’re gone and you’re holding their stuff in your hands. It would have an effect on anyone."
And those who experienced combat are often doubly afflicted.
"If you have a traumatic physical injury you could be mentally injured too," he says.
"The medical staff doesn’t tell JPSU what the medical issue is because of privacy. They just tell you what a person can’t do. So if you’re told a person can’t bear to look at military vehicles you know it’s a mental issue."
The military’s Director of Casualty Support Management, Colonel Gerard Blais, agreed to an interview with the Citizen but it was cancelled three hours before it was due to take place. Blais has headed the JPSU system since its inception.
In a written response issued through a public affairs spokesman, Blais described staffing at Joint Personnel Support Units as "adequate" but "challenging in the current environment" due to a government-imposed hiring freeze.
"A number of mechanisms to address the issue of staffing these positions are currently being examined," said the spokesman, who offered no specifics.
Westholm says it makes no economic sense for the government to squeeze JPSU: "If it’s money you’re worried about these people leaving with jobs are not on the dole, not in the health care system and not alcoholics, drunk on the side of the road. They are making a wage and paying taxes."
The current operating budget for the support system is $19.4 million, roughly the same as last year.
"The intent is right but the execution is terrible," says a serving soldier posted into a support unit in another part of Ontario, who spoke on condition the Citizen didn’t use his name.
"I just go into a little crack and live there. We’re scattered all over and never line up together. I’ve never had a review of any sort. I check in once or twice a week to give a wave and show I’m still alive and that’s it.
There is no close monitoring. And if anybody needs close monitoring, it’s the guys here.
"There is no real sense of leadership or direction," adds the soldier. "It’s become a waiting room to get out of the military and isn’t a great place to be. It’s definitely understaffed, with one person in charge of 30 or 40 people."
A soldier working on JPSU staff at another Ontario base says a slew of his colleagues are burned out or leaving to continue to collect their pensions, which they can’t do if they stay working in the military, according to new federal Treasury Board rules.
"We’re losing a lot of good people and a lot of corporate knowledge," says the soldier who asked that neither his name nor base be published. "The staff is working 16-hour days six days a week. If JPSU were 100 per cent resourced it would be excellent but right now it isn’t working.
"This unit was stood up to take stigma away from the ill and injured," he adds, "but now we’re almost back where we started."
Amid stories of staff burning out and developing their own health issues — including at least one who suffered an emotional collapse and became a JPSU client — Westholm wrote his two-page resignation letter.
"JPSU is the lowest priority," says Sharpe, who works closely on military mental health issues with Senator Romeo Dallaire.
"I worry about it as a citizen and as a veteran," he says. "I worry about what some of the young guys will end up doing if you create an environment where the ill and injured feel they can’t make their voices heard. And I know dozens of them.
"What we need is an environment where veterans who have a mental injury or a leg blown off by an IED have an entitlement, not a need to go begging," he added.
JPSU’s decline is a failure of leadership, says Sharpe.
"The obligation is on the government — an implied covenant that if you’re injured you’ll be taken care of."
Westholm agrees.
"We are helping the people who paid the price," he says. "We asked them to go to war and they went. They got beat up over there and now they want to get better. But now we’ve set a trap for them: We’re saying ‘come on, it’s here’ but it’s not."
Read Canada’s Taking Care of Our Own Policy
Read Westholm's resignation letter
ccobb@ottawacitizen.com
twitter.com/chrisicobb
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‘We were like animals living in a cage’
Born into the brutality of the Taliban regime, Maryam Sahar Naqibullah was determined to help international forces reform Afghanistan. Forced to flee, she tells Teresa Smith about her new life in Canada and her determination to improve the lives of women she left behind.
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/life/were+like+animals+living+cage/8743326/story.html
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An emotional journey for Canadian military
By Cheryl Brink, Cornwall Standard Freeholder
Thursday, August 1, 2013 9:26:45 EDT PM
Members of the Canadian Forces attend a commemoration ceremony during a tour of Sicily, Italy, marking 70 years since Canadian troops pushed back enemy forces in the country during the Second World War. Cornwallite Master-Cpl. Shawn Banville joined the tour as the group’s medic. Canadian Army Public Affairs/Cpl. Philippe Archambault
http://www.standard-freeholder.com/2013/08/01/an-emotional-journey-for-canadian-military
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Memorial to Crown Forces killed in Sackets Harbor during War of 1812 to be dedicated Saturday
By GORDON BLOCK
TIMES STAFF WRITER
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013
AMANDA MORRISON / WATERTOWN DAILY TIMES
Re-enactors stand together during a War of 1812 history event in August 2012 at the Sackets Harbor battlefield.
SACKETS HARBOR BATTLEFIELD STATE HISTORIC SITE
A new monument to Crown forces killed during the Second Battle of Sackets Harbor in 1813 is placed in this undated photo. The monument will be dedicated Saturday.
SACKETS HARBOR — A monument to Crown Forces killed during the Second Battle of Sackets Harbor will be dedicated Saturday afternoon as a part of the village’s living history weekend, which starts today.
The granite monument, a result of about five years of planning and fundraising, lists the names of 42 Crown Forces fighters who were killed and whose bodies were left in the village following the battle, which took place May 29, 1813.
"A lot of people when they come out and see that battlefield, they know it’s part of the state historic site," said Clayton F. Nans, a board member for the Sackets Harbor Battlefield Alliance, which helped organize the monument. "They don’t realize it’s also a cemetery, and the remains of 42 people are on that field."
The monument, off Ontario Street, will be dedicated at 1 p.m. Saturday.
Mr. Nans, a retired Marine Corps colonel, said the list of names was carefully researched and verified by a wide range of American and Canadian experts working off photocopies of military documentation from the war period. The monument was paid for by Canadian and American donors.
"It’s long overdue," he said. "It’s been a wonderful project."
Constance B. Barone, manager of the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, said the dedication and the weekend’s events were a way to emphasize the area’s connection to its Canadian neighbors.
"This is a chance to highlight the importance of Sackets Harbor and the north country, and how it relates to the bigger picture of the War of 1812 and all of the participants," she said.
The ceremony will feature an American representative from Fort Drum, along with British and Canadian military officials, and representatives from a wide range of fields from both sides of the border.
The monument is not the only tribute to Canadian forces to be unveiled in the village Saturday. At 12:30 p.m., a plaque will be dedicated on Ontario Street for military forces from New Brunswick.
Events start tonight with a presentation by historian Donald E. Graves at 6 p.m. near the site’s parking lot off Hill Street. Other speakers include historian Dianne Graves, who will speak at 11 a.m. Saturday, and professor Donald R. Hickey, of Wayne State College, Nebraska, who will speak at 6 p.m. Saturday. The history weekend will end with a Grand War of 1812 bicentennial re-enactment running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday.
A full list of events can be found at www.sacketsharborbattlefield.org/schedule.htm.
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Kandahar cenotaph to tour Canada, U.S
A memorial to Canadians killed during the decade-long war in Afghanistan will spend the summer on Parliament Hill before being transported on a two-year journey across the country and into the United States.
The 'Afghanistan Memorial Vigil' is composed of individual black granite plaques honouring 158 Canadian forces members, 40 U.S. troops operating under Canadian command, Canadian diplomat Glyn Berry, journalist Michelle Lang and a civilian contractor.
The memorial - each plaque is etched with the face of the victim and basic biographical details - was mounted on a cenotaph at Kandahar Airfield and brought to Canada when this country's fighting mission ended there in 2011. After its planned two-year, 16-city journey ends in Washington D.C., the memorial will return to Ottawa where the panels will be displayed permanently on a cenotaph at a location yet to be decided.
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Kandahar+cenotaph+tour+Canada/8639230/story.html
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Kids learn history 'hands-on'
Children were taught basic soldier skills at the Military Heritage Days held at Fort Malden in Amherstburg, on Sunday.
Photograph by: Dax Melmer, The Windsor Star , The Windsor Star
Aug 06, 2013 - 8:08 UTC
The Military Heritage Days was not only about shooting muskets, charging Vikings and tactical demonstrations.
It was also about passing on history to the younger generation.
Alex Dale, an interpretation officer at Amherstburg's Fort Malden National Historic Site, said with live demonstrations and re-enactments on Saturday and Sunday, a "hands on" approach is a better way to educate children on historic events.
"For the kids, reading about it and seeing old pictures does not do it justice until you see it, hear it and smell it," Dale said. "To hear the muskets and cannons fire, to see the Romans in their shining armour, to watch Vikings come charging across the field, to smell the food that is cooking in the camps, it's incredible. I think the kids really enjoy and immerse themselves into it."
Bringing 2,000 years of military history to life, visitors from all ages at the Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada were able to witness re-enactments from Caldwell's Western Rangers, the British 34th and 41st Regiments of Foot, the Glengarry Light Infantry, the British Indian Department, Vikings, Romans, First and Second World War groups, Vietnam G.I.'s and members of the Canadian Forces.
The children were also able to take part in a scavenger hunt and learn how to march during a "mini-militia."
Scott Finlay, a Parks Canada programming co-ordinator from Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. said kids will remember what they learned because they took part in it.
"For Canadian kids, it's really important to know where you came from," Finlay said. "The future is largely determined by things that have already happened."
Finlay, dressed as an Anglican priest, quoted philosopher and poet George Santayana, saying: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
"These kids need that bigger picture," Finlay said. "(History) will create a better Canada as we move down, as we add to it and as this next generation takes the reins. History is a critical point in that equation."
Finlay travelled to Fort Malden from Niagara-on-the-Lake to take part in the event for his second year. Stationed at Fort Malden's sister-fort - Niagara's Fort George - he enjoys travelling to Amherstburg to see what he calls a "little jewel."
"This is a wonderful site," he said. "It's a shame people probably don't know about it."
The Military Heritage Days had other interactive learning opportunities, such as tactical and music demonstrations, period cricket matches and various military encampments. Visitors had the opportunity to walk up to recreated military camps to see what the tents and gear looked like, and to learn from re-enactors how soldiers from times past slept and ate.
"They're great historians because of their passion on the subject," Finlay said.
Louis Becigneul, from the Essex Medieval Heritage Society, has been hosting a Viking's encampment at Fort Malden for the past 10 years. His site included reproductions of actual artifacts found in Norway, games, weaponry, armour and sausages cooking on a campfire as one of the many foods Vikings ate many years ago.
The Romans and Vikings took to the field Sunday and charged at each other in battle.
The Viking re-enactor enjoys being part of the event because he loves the fort and gets to do what he loves the most.
"It's a lot of fun," Becigneul said. "We get to meet new people and share what our hobby is - which is history."
Fort Malden's next event will be the Battle of Lake Erie during Labour Day weekend.
http://www.windsorstar.com/Kids+learn+history+hands/8751555/story.html
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NATO surveillance programs withdrawal will cost Canada contracts Globe and Mail
Prime Minister Stephen Harper says there will be no Canadian boots on the ground in Afghanistan after 2014. But he says Canada will continue to financially ...
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All politicians must take the blame 4 this ..... and all political parties....all need 2 step up 4 our troops... please...
Feds fail to stand on guard for Afghan vets
The Leader-Post August 7, 2013
Canadian soldiers on patrol in southern Afghanistan in 2009.
Photograph by: Canadian Press File Photo , The Leader-Post
The moral contract seems irrefutable, almost sacred. People who put their lives on the line for their country should be able to expect their country to step up for them in their individual time of need.
It is unsettling to see just how short of that standard Canada is falling when it comes to its veterans. While the Stephen Harper government prides itself as promilitary, its backing of the troops is proving sadly ephemeral. Ottawa is simply not doing enough to support our soldiers once they are out of uniform. Experts have claimed the Department of National Defence is underestimating the number of soldiers coming home from Afghanistan with mental injuries such as posttraumatic stress disorder.
Earlier this year, military ombudsman Guy Parent called for "urgent" action by the Conservative government to improve financial help, vocational training and family support offered to veterans. He estimated as many as 1,000 military personnel forced to leave the Canadian Forces each year because
of medical problems are not getting the help they need to make the shift to civilian life. This is the same government that neglects to include modern-day veterans in its funeral and burial program as it does with Second World War and Korean War veterans. Against that backdrop are two new troubling developments.
Federal lawyers in a B.C. courtroom last week argued for the dismissal of a class-action lawsuit filed by injured Afghanistan war veterans, saying Ottawa owes them no extraordinary social obligation beyond what they have already received under its controversial new veterans charter. That charter replaces lifetime pensions with workers' compensation-type lump sum payments that are in all cases less than would have been received under the old Pension Act system, which dated back to the First World War.
In Toronto last week, an interim report on homelessness contained the startling finding that 16 per cent of the people living on the street in Canada's biggest city once served in the Canadian military.
Is it any wonder that veterans' organizations are furious at this government? The veterans' charter faces a mandatory parliamentary review in October and the weight of complaints is building quite a battle cry for necessary improvements.
We are approaching the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Of those few remaining veterans of that war still alive, some of them now reduced to finding something to eat at the food bank, how many must wonder at the progress of our society in recent decades? Not forgotten? Many would say otherwise.
This editorial first appeared in the Edmonton Journal.
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A man who is good enough to shed his blood for his country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards
http://nova0000scotia.blogspot.ca/2013/08/a-man-who-is-good-enough-to-shed-his.html
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Wounded Warriors Weekend ‘highly emotional’ for veterans
By Vanessa Brown, The Leader-Post August 7, 2013
REGINA — For Andrew Godin, it was a much-needed weekend of fishing, laughter and, perhaps most importantly, talk therapy.
The retired Canadian Forces warrant officer was one of about 180 veterans who came together over the long weekend for the Wounded Warriors Weekend retreat in Nipawin.
Godin, who was discharged with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2006, credits the annual fishing trip with helping him turn a corner in his journey coping with civilian life after numerous international tours of duty.
"I was lucky enough to also make that trip last year, and it was absolutely life changing," Godin said Tuesday at the Royal United Services Institute, at which the group gathered before catching their flights out of Regina.
"For me, standing here with a bunch of soldiers that I’ve never met before, I feel more comfortable with them than I do walking around on the street or with my own family. It’s that comeraderie that we try to nurture."
Also known as one of 12 alumni who returned for the second annual fishing trip, Godin opens up and shares his story with other wounded soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen in hopes they will reciprocate.
And although he described the retreat as "fabulous" for its healing powers, Godin doesn’t pretend the Wounded Warriors Weekend is a cure-all.
"There isn’t really a cure for PTSD," he said. "You’re going to live with it for the rest of your life. This is more about managing the disease rather than letting it control your life."
At one point during the weekend, Blake Emmons was hit with the notion that the nature retreat was helping. While out golfing, he noticed 16 golf carts all gathered around the same hole. The group had stopped and struck up a conversation. Which was the whole point, said Emmons, director of the Wounded Warriors Weekend.
"It was highly emotional and incredible. Even compared to last year, there was more conversation," said Emmons, noting the soldiers this year came from Canada, the U.S., Australia and the United Kingdom. "The biggest thing that happened was four countries spoke and talked ... The fact is, PTSD doesn’t know any borders. It’s just something that happens."
Godin also continues to be involved in the Wounded Warriors Weekend in order to raise awareness about mental health disorders that weren’t talked about openly until relatively recently. He speaks at length about the issues he faced when he would return to Canada, signs of PTSD progressively worsening until he sought help. By sharing his story, he hopes to reach young veterans going through similar experiences.
"If it lights a fire and gets them up and out and functioning again," Godin explained, "then it’s a win-win."
vbrown@leaderpost.com
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Comment: Restore the social contract with our veterans
Michael J. Prince / Times Colonist
August 9, 2013
What, through our federal government, do Canadians owe our veterans? What is our debt to injured soldiers, our obligation to weary warriors ravaged by trauma, and our responsibility to the widows and widowers of veterans?
These questions are fundamental to individual and collective beliefs of patriotism, security and honour. These issues have captured national attention once again following a class-action suit against the federal government launched by six veterans of the Afghanistan war regarding perceived inadequacies of the New Veterans Charter passed by Parliament in 2005.
Existing public programs and services to veterans, including lump-sum payments, authorized by Parliament are, of course, lawful activities of public policy. This does not mean, however, that they are adequate. For many veterans, the great risk of lump-sum payments for compensation for disabilities is that the adverse effects of combat may not fully manifest themselves for several years, well after financial compensation has been decided.
Contrary to claims by Justice Canada lawyers, the federal government and veterans do have a special relationship. It is an extraordinary association rooted deeply in Canadian military history, forged in human sacrifice and nation-building, enacted in public-policy commitments and expressed through enduring symbols of remembrance.
Public policies in particular can be seen as societal recognition of the contributions made by veterans, with particular reference to the costs they incur and the contributions they make to society. The distinctive treatment accorded veterans in federal policy is also apparent by the fact that veterans have had a specific department and minister representing them, in one form or another, since 1918.
Canadians have long regarded disabled veterans as highly deserving of compensation. In fact, the Pensions Act of 1919, which offered disability pensions for soldiers, was the first substantial federal intervention in the field of social policy in Canada. By the 1940s, social-security provisions for the armed forces and their dependants were more advanced in scope and benefits than those for civilian Canadians.
The fiduciary obligation of the federal government to veterans is therefore multifaceted. True, the relationship is historical and cultural, but it also involves ethical and legal duties.
In this relationship, veterans occupy a position of vulnerability with reference to the federal government. That vulnerability takes many forms: It can be medical, financial or social in character. Regrettably, working relations with federal officials are not always distinguished by trust, good faith and acting in the best interests of veterans.
There are too many stories of bureaucratic stalling, breaches of confidentiality of files, homeless veterans, and struggles by veterans and their families for support. Canadian veterans and their families ought to be able to reasonably expect respectful treatment and adequate standards of care. Even with the creation of the veterans’ ombudsman office several years ago, problems persist and the need for reform remains. Sadly, to voice serious concerns about their fights for care and battles for support, a National Day of Protest has become an annual event for Canadian veterans in November.
The government of Stephen Harper must work on restoring a constructive, open and respectful relationship with Canada’s veterans and their families. As a first step, Justice Minister Peter McKay should instruct his departmental lawyers to abstain from any language that denies the existence of a special relationship between government and veterans. To let this line of argument continue will rightly enrage veterans.
Second, the federal government should confirm that there is, has been, and always will be a special contract, a moral and political obligation, with veterans. This fall’s speech from the throne would be a fitting occasion to underline the relationship between the Crown and the military.
A third step, also symbolic but profoundly significant, would be to add a preamble to the New Veterans Charter that affirms the sacred trust or social obligation between parliament and the veterans.
This fall, a parliamentary committee review of the New Veterans Charter will take place. As a fourth step, this process should produce concrete measures that improve support services for families, enhance the financial security and standard of living of veterans and increase the range and types of vocational rehabilitation and supports for the employment opportunities of veterans.
Continuing to deny and diminish this special relationship with veterans feels like the Harper government is stomping on poppies.
Michael J. Prince is Lansdowne Professor of Social Policy at the University of Victoria, the son of a Second World War veteran and the co-author with Pamela Moss of a forthcoming book, Weary Warriors: Power, Knowledge, and the Invisible Wounds of Soldiers.
http://www.timescolonist.com/comment-restore-the-social-contract-with-our-veterans-1.573411
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Prince Harry to race to South Pole 2013
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gm4Wj4wW4Jk
CANADA
CDS And Governor General Introduce Canadian Soldiers Who Will Take Part in South Pole Challenge
Section: Defence Watch
David Pugliese
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News release from DND/CF:
OTTAWA, ONTARIO–(Marketwired – April 19, 2013) – Today, at National Defence Headquarters, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, alongside the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Tom Lawson, introduced Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members who will participate in the South Pole Allied Challenge.
One of the most high-profile expeditions of modern times, the South Pole Allied Challenge will see three teams of ill and injured, serving and former military personnel from the Commonwealth (Australia and Canada), the United Kingdom and the United States race to the geographic South Pole from November to December 2013. With His Royal Highness Prince Harry serving as patron, the expedition is being organized by Walking With the Wounded, a United Kingdom-based charity, which funds extreme expeditions for wounded servicemen and women. Team Commonwealth will include two serving CAF members.
"The Government of Canada, the Department of National Defence, and the Canadian Armed Forces are proud of our two Soldier On participants, Master Corporal Chris Downey and Corporal Alexandre Beaudin D’Anjou, who will represent Canada as part of Team Commonwealth in this historical expedition," said General Tom Lawson. "We are very proud of the two Soldier On participants who will represent Canada as members of Team Commonwealth during this historic expedition. Master Corporal Downey and Corporal Beaudin D’Anjou demonstrate degrees of perseverance that serve as an inspiration for all of us," said General Tom Lawson. "The care and support of our ill and injured is a vitally important and ever-evolving responsibility. The unwavering leadership of Minister MacKay has been crucial in helping us improve the level of care we provide to those who have given so much in the service of their country. Together, with programs like Soldier On, and with the on-going support of the Minister of National Defence, the Canadian Armed Forces will continue to improve how we care for our own."
The three teams recently completed extensive cold-weather training in Iceland and will continue preparing throughout the summer of 2013. In October there will be a final phase of snow training, at which point expedition members will fly to Antarctica and begin their challenging journey to the southern most point on the globe. The aim of the South Pole Allied Challenge is for all of the teams to have reached the Geographic South Pole around mid-December 2013.
Canada’s participation is being facilitated through Soldier On, a Department of National Defence program which assists serving and retired ill and injured CAF members accept their new normal by empowering them to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle through participation in recreational, sporting and other challenging activities
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USA
Soldiers Prepare in CO for South Pole Race
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By: AP
Posted: Thu 10:35 AM, Aug 08, 2013
Wounded soldiers preparing for a fundraising race to the South Pole this fall are training in Colorado.
The four U.S. soldiers who will participate in the Walking with the Wounded race will be hiking and honing their mountaineering skills starting Thursday in Telluride. They'll also practice with the sleds they'll use to cross Antarctica but on grass.
The soldiers will compete against a team of soldiers from the United Kingdom and another from Canada and Australia to raise money for re-integration programs for wounded veterans. Britain's Prince Harry will join them on the 200-mile course. He served as a co-pilot helicopter gunner in Afghanistan earlier this year.
Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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Wounded soldiers train in Iceland for South Pole raceBy Frank Gardner
BBC security correspondent at Langjokull Glacier, Iceland
Frank Gardner joined the teams as they started their training in Iceland
Continue reading the main story
Related Stories
UK soldiers abandon Everest climb
Wounded soldiers reach North Pole
Prince Harry stranded in Arctic
In one of the worst storms anyone in Iceland can remember, a group of badly injured servicemen and women from around the world have been struggling through howling blizzards on the edge of a mountain glacier.
They are training for Antarctica and a coming international race later in the year that will stretch them 330km (205 miles) across the frozen wastes to the South Pole.
Every member of the three competing teams, from the UK, the US and the Commonwealth (in this case Australia and Canada), has been either shot, burned, blown up or traumatised in combat operations.
Many are missing limbs and one, US Army Capt Ivan Castro, is totally blind after losing his sight to a mortar bomb in Iraq.
Buffeted by the wind, unable to see the contours ahead of him, he is finding it harder than most.
"I've fallen over so many times I've lost count," Capt Castro shouts above the wind.
"Yesterday I only fell four times but this time I've lost count. It's extremely tough for me, I have to say. Since I lost my sight this has been one of the toughest things I've ever done."
Hazards and hurdles
The South Pole 2013 challenge is being organised by the UK charity Walking With The Wounded (WWTW) - whose patron is Prince Harry - to raise awareness of wounded servicemen and women returning from conflict and trying to assimilate back into civilian life.
Australian Army
There is no talk of politics, of the rights or wrongs of being sent off to somewhere like Afghanistan. All the focus is on rehab and recovery, mental as well as physical.
Last year, they made an attempt to climb Mt Everest, but had to turn back just before the summit due to bad weather.
The year before that, WWTW's British team successfully trekked across the polar ice cap to the North Pole, with Prince Harry accompanying them part of the way, leaving them with just days to spare before his brother Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton.
This year, it is different.
Trekking across Antarctica brings its own hazards and hurdles.
For a start there is the altitude. Unlike the North Polar ice cap, which is all at sea level, Antarctica is a landmass that rises steadily up to over 4,000m (13,000ft).
The winds are legend and the continent holds the record for the lowest recorded temperature on earth: -89.2C at Vostok station.
And Walking With The Wounded has now gone global.
Determinedly upbeat
The Commonwealth team, made up of Australians and Canadians, will be racing against Britons and Americans.
Despite the camaraderie and the banter, it is likely to get fiercely competitive.
Some of the race participants explain why they are taking part
At the foot of a black, volcanic mountain I find the Commonwealth team hunched against the gale and wolfing down mouthfuls of some glutinous meal.
With all their backs turned against the wind I can't help thinking of those flocks of Antarctic penguins huddled miserably against the blizzard.
Some of the Australians are from the subtropics and are now getting their first taste of snow.
Despite the vile conditions they are determinedly upbeat. "It could be colder," jokes one. Another reminds himself why he is putting himself through this ordeal.
"Being able to raise awareness of wounded soldiers through charities like Walking With The Wounded and Soldier On," says Heath Jamieson of the Australian Army, "provides avenues for the public to get behind their wounded soldiers."
Meanwhile, the British team, clad in bright red tops, have planted their skis some way off.
There is no natural shelter to be had anywhere, for any team, which is exactly what will face them in Antarctica.
Only one of the Britons, Guy Disney, has been on a polar expedition before with WWTW.
A former British army cavalry officer, he lost his leg in an explosion in Afghanistan. Yet, equipped with a prosthetic leg, he successfully trekked with the rest of his team to the North Pole in 2011.
I ask one of his new team mates, Jason Wilkes, how he is finding the conditions.
"The problems are just the wind and the skiing and also people have never skied before, the amputee guys, they're just getting used to it," he replies.
It would seem a fitting time if he and his team were having any second thoughts - after all, this hardly looks like fun.
"None at all Frank, none at all," he says, grinning, as he skis off into the wind. He might even be whistling.
You can follow news of the race, the participants and their training on Twitter #southpole2013
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Australia
Soldiers prepare for the walk of a lifetime
Three Australian Army soldiers in training to trek to the South Pole for Walking With The Wounded
Three soldiers wounded in action are in the running for a race to the South Pole to be held in December. The 2013 Walking With The Wounded expedition will comprise of teams of service personnel from Australia, Canada, the US and the UK, all with physical or cognitive wounds sustained during active service.
Warrant Officer Class 2 Scott Warby, Corporal Seamus Donaghue and Private Heath Jamieson were the lucky three selected from a list of applicants keen to represent Australia.
Private Jamieson, who sustained a gunshot wound in Afghanistan, said the expedition was a great opportunity to raise awareness.
"It’s an avenue for the community to support wounded soldiers through supporting charities like Soldier On," he said.
"We’re lucky to be at a stage of recovery to be able to take part in this expedition."
The three soldiers have incorporated training for the expedition into their rehabilitation programs to prepare for their epic Antarctic journey.
In March, the trio will travel to Iceland where they will undergo cold weather training and meet the other participants.
Warrant Officer Class 2 Warby, who also suffered a gunshot to the leg in Afghanistan, said they would have a better idea of what to expect on their expedition when they arrived in Iceland.
"Not many of us spend much time skiing due to the lack of snow in Australia," he said.
"Once we get there we’ll have a better idea of what to expect at the South Pole."
Some of the training to date has included marching and weight carrying, as well as dragging large tyres behind them to replicate the sleds they will be required to pull during the trek. Each member of the team will have to pull their own equipment behind them on a sled, which could weigh up to 100kg. The equipment will include important items for sleeping, survival, cold weather clothing, food and water.
After a series of training camps and personal preparation, two of the soldiers will be selected by Walking With The Wounded to join two Canadian soldiers in the Commonwealth team, with the third a reserve in case of injury or illness. In December the team will face the four-week trek across the Antarctic, walking up to 40km a day in minus 45 degree temperatures.
Private Jamieson said it was great to be back working in a small-team environment.
"You go from working in close teams and then [once injured] into the recovery and rehabilitation system," he said.
"It’s great to have that mental and physical challenge in a team environment again."
The trio will need to draw on each other’s strengths to overcome the grueling challenge of Iceland and the Antarctic in what is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Corporal Donaghue said he hoped being part of the expedition would inspire other wounded members and show them anything was possible.
"You can go out and do anything," he said.
"There is more than just rehabilitation and there is always something to look forward to after recovery."
Corporal Donaghue added it was important to get public support behind the trek.
"Getting that awareness of wounded soldiers out there and showing others in similar circumstances to us that anything is possible, is very important."
Walking With The Wounded is supported by Soldier On and charities from each participating nation.
To read more about Warrant Officer Class 2 Scott Warby click here.
To read more about Corporal Seamus Donaghue click here.
To read more about Private Heath Jamieson click here.
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Dispatches from Afghanistan
By Jennifer Moreau, Burnaby Now August 9, 2013
Lauryn Oates, the Burnaby resident we recently featured in the NOW, sent me an email about recent dealings with the Taliban. Lauryn works with Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan (CW4WAfghan), a nonprofit group working to secure human rights for Afghan women and girls.
Apparently, the U.S. and Afghanistan have been trying to negotiate with the Taliban, and CW4WAfghan has issued a media statement outlining some major concerns about the process.
According to CW4WAfghan, there has been little progress in negotiations with the Taliban, but plans to date lack transparency, inclusiveness and consultation with Afghans.
"The people of Afghanistan deserve peace, and nothing else should be the objective of the international community. However, as many Afghan civil society organizations have expressed, there is not peace without justice. There is no peace in a negotiated settlement that takes place without the will of the people. And there is no peace if the rights of women are denied. Afghanistan will never conquer the extreme poverty that pervades the country if the status of women is not elevated."
To read CW4WAfghan's full statement on the issue, go to my blog at www.burn abynow.com.
PARKINSON'S DISCRIMINATION
I received some rather disturbing information, passed on by local resident Linda Dawson, who organizes the Burnaby Parkinson's support
group. According to the Parkinson Society of B.C., which is citing research from the U.K., 43 per cent of people with Parkinson's experience discrimination because of the disease.
"From being shouted at for using a disabled parking space, through to being refused service in their local supermarket, the new research paints a deeply disturbing picture about public attitudes towards those living with the degenerative condition," the society states.
Parkinson's is a neurodegenerative disease that affects roughly one in 300 Canadians.
There is treatment, but no known cure. Symptoms can include depression; tremours; difficulty walking, talking and swallowing; and trouble with posture.
According to the society, roughly one in five people with Parkinson's are mistaken for being drunk while out in public.
These attitudes can lead to isolation or fear of going out in public for people who suffer from the disease.
"As well as running into prejudice, we also have special friends who are very, very helpful, who understand," Linda told me, explaining how the support group helps. "By comparing notes, and getting professional people into to speak to us, that is really, really a help."
The Burnaby group for people with Parkinson's is meeting Monday, Aug. 12 at Confederation Centre from 1 to 3 p.m. Voice therapist Maureen Olafson will be there to help people with their speech. People who suspect they have Parkinson's are welcome to attend, as are caregivers or anyone who wants help speaking. Confederation Centre is at 4585 Albert St., and there is a minimum donation of $2 to attend. For more information, call Linda at 604-298-2983.
. Have an interesting item you like to share with the community? Send details to jmoreau@burnabynow.com.
Read more: http://www.burnabynow.com/health/Dispatches+from+Afghanistan/8768382/story.html#ixzz2bY8iB9HA
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ROYAL CANADIAN MOUNTED POLICE
Afghanistan: One Month Done
AUGUST 9 2013
C/Supt. Marion Lamothe, Cst. Tammy Bradley and Sgt. Jason Plomp at a Canada Day ceremony in Kabul
Care packages sent courtesy of the Ottawa Legion were much appreciated by Canadian police in Afghanistan
By Cst. Tammy Bradley, Ontario Provincial Police
It has been 43 days since I arrived in Kabul and I feel that I am finally settling in to a routine. Each day I realize how much we take for granted and really need to take a step back and appreciate the simple things in life.
Running water to brush my teeth has been replaced with water bottles as the empty ones pile up within my room each week. Recycling does not exist, so millions of plastic bottles are either thrown in the garbage or burned, leading to high pollution rates.
The privilege of going outside to walk somewhere or go for a drive has been taken away because of routine security risks. I have not yet driven here although I do look forward to the opportunity and challenge.
In areas I have traveled, I see vehicles being driven down both sides in either direction, regardless of oncoming traffic. A traffic circle here simply means going whichever direction seems fitting at the time. Making left hand turns – there are no rules, just the courage to do it when one feels it is "safe". I have not seen women driving here – that is simply not allowed. Some roads are in better condition than others, but the streets bear obvious signs of the devastation of war.
Canada Day was an amazing experience, as the Canadian Ambassador invited Canadians posted in the country to the Embassy to celebrate. Over 100 people attended and were served hotdogs and hamburgers, followed by a huge slice of birthday cake (made with 150 eggs). It was a very moving experience to be standing in Afghanistan amongst fellow Canadians, surrounded by red and white balloons and banners, proudly singing our national anthem.
We were pleasantly surprised when a care package for each police member in mission arrived from the Royal Canadian Legion (Ottawa) containing a box of maple cookies, maple syrup and candies! A huge thanks to the Legion for thinking of us here; it was greatly appreciated and such a wonderful treat!
Canada Day was also an opportunity to see many of my contingent members for the first time since arriving a month ago. Training was arranged at a local range, where we were able to exchange stories of what we had been doing. Most of my team are in the field training Afghan police officers, so it was great to hear their stories.
One of my female contingent members has a couple of female Afghan officers in her class, and she explained that they were happy to have a Canadian female police officer as an instructor. The women would discreetly wave to her and smile to show their enthusiasm, yet they didn't want their male classmates to know. She hopes in the near future to make further ground with these women by speaking to them about their experiences as police officers.
The fasting period of Ramadan is quickly approaching. It is a religious custom practiced by Muslims around the world as they abstain from food, drink and other physical needs during the daylight hours for an entire month. It is also a time to refrain from evil actions, thoughts and words. When Ramadan falls in the height of summer, fasting is more difficult to observe because the days are nearly 16 hours long. (Children under the age of 12, pregnant women and elders are not expected to participate.)
With the lack of food and water coupled with the heat (minimum mid 30's daily) there is great concern for the locals who will have to endure the hot days without hydration. We are made aware of this as it will impact the ability of those participating in classes and those working. We have been asked to respect this tradition by avoiding eating or drinking in front of them, including carrying bottles of water in their vicinity.
As I sign off for now, I wish everyone a very happy and safe summer!
C/Supt. Marion Lamothe, Cst. Tammy Bradley and Sgt. Jason Plomp at a Canada Day ceremony in Kabul
Care packages sent courtesy of the Ottawa Legion were much appreciated by Canadian police in Afghanistan
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/po-mp/civpol/aug2013/afghanistan-eng.htm
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Media Advisory - National Peacekeepers’ Day: meet a police peacekeeper
August 6, 2013 OTTAWA – On August 9, Canada marks National Peacekeepers’ Day, a day to honour and remember Canadians who have served or are currently serving on peace operations around the world.
This week, we invite members of the media to interview a local police peacekeeper in advance of National Peacekeepers’ Day.
Among our peacekeepers, you may be interested in meeting police officers from Ottawa (RCMP and Ottawa Police Service) who recently returned from mission. We also have a number of local police officers currently serving abroad who can share their experiences direct from mission.
Media are also invited to attend a national ceremony on Sunday, August 11 at 11 am at the National Peacekeeping Monument. The event will feature troops of nearly 100 peacekeepers, including a contingent of police officers training to deploy to Haiti for a year. Music will be provided by the Band of the Ceremonial Guard and there will be a C-17 fly-past (weather permitting). The ceremony will also mark the 65th anniversary of Canadian involvement in peace operations.
An area will be reserved for media to film and photograph the event. Please note that space will be limited.
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Special Forces
By Leo Kurtenbach, The Starphoenix August 8, 2013
I believe that most Canadians see this country as a nation of peaceful people.
Most Canadians also probably know about Canada's Joint Task Force-2. (JTF-2). However, since
2006, Canada increased its number of special operations forces (SOF) units to four. These work with similar operations from the United States, Great Britain, New Zealand and Australia. When Canada participates with these four countries in joint operations, it is known as the "Five Eyes" militarysecurity complex. It is interesting to note that the American Congressional research service describes involvement in the Five Eyes as, "special operations forces (that) are elite military security units with special training and equipment that can infiltrate into hostile territory through land, sea, and air to conduct a variety of operations, many of them classified."
In Canada these operations are reported only to the minister of defence and the prime minister. Apparently our MPs are not advised of what our special forces do.
One should note that these SOFs can "infiltrate into hostile territory." Certainly this is an anomalous statement.
Imagine what we would think should Russian, Chinese or Middle Eastern special military forces "infiltrate" American or Canadian territory. Would we then be categorized as "hostile territory"? Are we trying to keep global "enmity" alive for the benefit of our weapons and ammunition manufacturers? Is it possible that SOFs are used to pinpoint human targets in the Middle East to be destroyed by American drones?
Leo Kurtenbach
Saskatoon
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PRIME MINISTER HARPER'S ANNOUNCEMENT ON FISHING HARBOURS
Small craft harbours
August 9, 2013
Miramichi, New Brunswick
The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the commercial fishing industry in Canada. To this end, on August 9, 2013, Prime Minister Harper announced an investment of $62.8 million in core small craft fishing harbours across the country for 2013-2014, through Fisheries and Oceans Canada's Small Craft Harbours (SCH) Program.
This investment in small craft harbours across Canada will support 73 major construction, repair and maintenance projects; 34 major dredging projects; minor repairs and redredging projects; and, technical support related to advance planning, preparation of plans and specifications and environmental assessments. Funds will be allocated as follows:
" $16.6 million in Newfoundland and Labrador
" $4 million in Prince Edward Island
" $10.2 million in Nova Scotia
" $8.7 million in New Brunswick
" $10.6 million in Quebec
" $1.6 million in Ontario
" $3.2 million in Manitoba
" $7.9 million in British Columbia
Specifically in New Brunswick, major projects being funded under the program include:
" Maintenance and repair:
- Installation of floating wharves and finalization of plans and specifications at Seal Cove, as part of an ongoing, major project;
- Electrical work at Miscou;
- Reconstruction of a wharf at Les Aboiteaux, to be carried out over two years;
- A project to raise the wharf deck elevation at Black River, to be carried out over two years;
- Removal of a barricaded wharf and float installation at Chockpish;
- Wavebreak construction and installation at Stuart Town;
- Wharf repairs at McEacherns Point;
- Installation of floating wharves at Pigeon Hill;
- Installation of shore protection at Pointe Sapin; and,
- Electrical system upgrades and engineering work at Le Goulet.
" Dredging:
- Channel dredging at Miscou; and,
- Redredging of the entrance channels at the following harbours: Cap-de-Saint-Louis, Cap-Lumière, Chockpish, Escuminac, Loggiecroft, McEacherns Point, Pigeon Hill, Pointe-Sapin, Saint-Édouard-de-Kent, and Sainte-Marie-sur-mer.
In addition, a number of minor repair and redredging projects, as well as technical studies will be carried out at small craft harbours throughout New Brunswick.
Recognizing that investments in small craft harbours maintain and create jobs in coastal communities and help ensure that harbour facilities meet the needs of commercial fishermen, the Government of Canada has made significant investments in small craft harbours since 2006, including:
" approximately $450 million over five years (2013-2018) in the Small Craft Harbours Program, committed in Economic Action Plan 2013;
" $71.6 million over three years (2011-2014) to repair and clean up harbours damaged as a result of several extreme weather events in late 2010;
" $200 million over two years (2009-2011) to accelerate maintenance and repairs and carry out dredging at small craft harbours across the country, committed in Budget 2009; and,
" an increase of $20 million a year to the SCH program's annual budget, in 2007.
Small craft harbours support the commercial fishing industry, which contributes $5.2 billion to the Canadian economy every year. There are approximately 100,000 jobs within the Canadian commercial fishing industry, as well as thousands of additional jobs in supporting industries.
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Governor General unveils coins commemorating birth of Prince George
Read more: http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/governor-general-unveils-coins-commemorating-birth-of-prince-george-1.1403690#ixzz2bYBkm2AI
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For Scouts on Parliament Hill, it’s all Moot
Ottawa Citizen
Governor General David Johnston opened the 14th annual World Scout Moot on Parliament Hill Thursday morning.
As patron of Scouts Canada, he addressed the more than 2,000 scouts aged 18-25 from 90 countries.
This is the first year the Worldwide Moot has been held in Canada.
The annual Moot event has conferences, workshops and outdoor activities. Its focuses on the importance of serving communities, and "working together to build a smarter, more caring world."
Most events will be held in Low, Que., but scouts will also visit Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. World Scout Moot runs from Aug 8-18.
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/travel/Scouts+Parliament+Hill+Moot/8763165/story.html
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Harper weighs in on Russia's anti-gay law
By Staff The Canadian Press
DARRYL DYCK A poster of Russian President Vladimir Putin sporting makeup is carried during the Vancouver Pride Parade in Vancouver, on Sunday August 4, 2013. Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird says he's concerned about what Russia's new anti-gay law will mean for Canadian athletes and spectators at the Winter Games in Sochi. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
MIRAMICHI, N.B. – Stephen Harper has waded into the controversy over Russia’s new anti-gay law.
Speaking in Miramichi, N.B., the prime minister says Canadians expect his government to defend human rights.
Harper says Canada is not a country where people are jailed or killed for their political positions or for engaging in certain consensual acts between adults.
Related:
•John Baird encourages caution following U.S. travel alert
•Diplomats escalate job action to 15 missions
•Baird says he will focus on Americas
Earlier in the day, Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird also expressed hope that the controversy would be resolved before the Winter Games in Sochi begin in February.
The controversial Russian law bans so-called "propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations" and imposes fines on people who stage gay pride rallies.
Russia says it has no intention of changing the law as international pressure builds ahead of next year’s Games.
"I think it’s important to recognize there are some controversies in this matter, but the reality is that our position is that we don’t imprison or kill people for acts committed freely between adults," Harper said.
"We don’t imprison people for their expressing political positions. I think our position in this regard represents the position of Canadians and they expect that we speak in favour of these rights."
For his part, Baird expressed concern about what the anti-gay law will mean for Canadian athletes and spectators at the Games.
"We are concerned, obviously, about Canadian athletes and other participants, spectators and attendees of the Olympics there," Baird said during a conference call with journalists.
"But we should be very clear: they’re only going to be there two or three weeks. The people of Russia will have to deal with this law 365 days of the year, every year. Let’s hope that decency will prevail."
There have been calls for protests, a boycott and petitions to move the Games to Vancouver, where they were staged in 2010.
Baird, who is in Brazil on trade talks, says the furor over the law is a chance to put President Vladimir Putin’s Russia under the microscope.
"We’ve got an important opportunity for the free world to be able to focus on what’s happening in Russia in the recent weeks and months, and hopefully that can yield a change."
The foreign affairs minister also says he was pleased that the International Olympic Committee asked the Russian government to clarify parts of the law.
IOC President Jacques Rogge said Russia provided written re-assurances about the law on Thursday, but some parts remain unclear.
"We are waiting for the clarifications before having the final judgment on these reassurances," Rogge said.
U.S. President Barack Obama also spoke out against the law on Friday, saying he was deeply offended by it. He expressed hope that some gay and lesbian athletes will win some medals, something he said would "go a long way in rejecting the kind of attitudes that we’re seeing there."
Russia’s sports minister has said Olympians must respect the country’s laws during the Sochi Games.
However, the Russian government says it will respect the private lives of Olympic athletes.
— With files from The Associated Press
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CANADA MILITARY NEWS: Aug9/GLOBAL EPIDEMIC- HOMELESS- JOBLESS NUMBERS-canada,usa,european union, aussies, kiwis/we need 2 fix r world pls. Afghanistan news
http://nova0000scotia.blogspot.ca/2013/08/canada-military-news-aug9our-world.html
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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on National Peacekeepers' Day
August 9, 2013
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark National Peacekeepers' Day:
"For several decades, Canada has made important contributions to peacekeeping operations around the world.
"Tens of thousands of Canadian Armed Forces members, police officers and civilians have worked tirelessly to promote Canada's interests and international stability. This has included placing themselves between hostile forces, supervising cease-fires and the withdrawal of opposing troops, providing valuable support to international security operations and stabilization efforts through capacity building, training and policy development, and participating in strategic deployments of equipment and uniformed personnel and civilian experts."
"On this day, let us pay tribute to the remarkable work accomplished by all Canadian and international peacekeepers and remember with deep respect the more than 275 citizens of our country who paid the ultimate price while on peacekeeping missions.
"Let us also remember those Canadians currently keeping up the proud tradition of peacekeeping in places such as Haiti, Israel, Cyprus and South Sudan, and wish them a safe return home.
"Today, I call on all Canadians to join me in saluting and thanking these heroic and selfless individuals who sacrifice so much to help make the world a better place."
________________________________________
David Beckham backs UNICEF's project to help stop child abuse
David Beckham on February 27, 2012
By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter
Filed: Thursday, August 8, 2013 at 14:27 UK
Last Updated: Thursday, August 8, 2013 at 15:26 UK
David Beckham has called on his fans to help UNICEF's campaign to stop violence against children.
The 38-year-old, who is a UNICEF ambassador, provided a link to the organisation's website on Facebook telling his supporters to join the "global movement".
Beckham wrote: "All children have the right to live free from violence. Join the global movement to end violence against children with @UNICEF: http://uni.cf/endviolence."
Beckham retired from football at the end of last season following spells at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.
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Child Abuse & Neglect
Recognizing, Preventing, and Reporting Child AbuseAbuse Help CenterChild AbuseChild abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse and neglect, also leave deep, lasting scars. The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle—rather than perpetuate it. By learning about common signs of abuse and what you can do to intervene, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life.
In This Article:
Understanding child abuse
Effects of child abuse
Types of child abuse
Warning signs of child abuse
Risk factors for child abuse
Recognizing abusive behavior
Breaking the cycle of abuse
Helping an abused child
Reporting Child abuse
(Show more...)
Print this! Normal Text SizeLarger Text SizeLargest Text Size Understanding child abuse and neglect
Child Abuse Hotlines:
US or Canada: 1-800-422-4453 (Childhelp)
UK: 0800 1111 (NSPCC Childline)
Australia: 1800 688 009 (CAPS)
New Zealand: 0800-543-754 (Kidsline)
Other international helplines: ChiWorld.org
Child abuse is more than bruises or broken bones. While physical abuse is shocking due to the scars it leaves, not all child abuse is as obvious. Ignoring children’s needs, putting them in unsupervised, dangerous situations, or making a child feel worthless or stupid are also child abuse. Regardless of the type of child abuse, the result is serious emotional harm.
Myths and facts about child abuse and neglect
MYTH #1: It's only abuse if it's violent.
Fact: Physical abuse is just one type of child abuse. Neglect and emotional abuse can be just as damaging, and since they are more subtle, others are less likely to intervene.
MYTH #2: Only bad people abuse their children.
Fact: While it's easy to say that only "bad people" abuse their children, it's not always so black and white. Not all abusers are intentionally harming their children. Many have been victims of abuse themselves, and don’t know any other way to parent. Others may be struggling with mental health issues or a substance abuse problem.
MYTH #3: Child abuse doesn't happen in "good" families.
Fact: Child abuse doesn't only happen in poor families or bad neighborhoods. It crosses all racial, economic, and cultural lines. Sometimes, families who seem to have it all from the outside are hiding a different story behind closed doors.
MYTH #4: Most child abusers are strangers.
Fact: While abuse by strangers does happen, most abusers are family members or others close to the family.
MYTH #5: Abused children always grow up to be abusers.
Fact: It is true that abused children are more likely to repeat the cycle as adults, unconsciously repeating what they experienced as children. On the other hand, many adult survivors of child abuse have a strong motivation to protect their children against what they went through and become excellent parents.
Effects of child abuse and neglect
All types of child abuse and neglect leave lasting scars. Some of these scars might be physical, but emotional scarring has long lasting effects throughout life, damaging a child’s sense of self, ability to have healthy relationships, and ability to function at home, at work and at school. Some effects include:
Lack of trust and relationship difficulties. If you can’t trust your parents, who can you trust? Abuse by a primary caregiver damages the most fundamental relationship as a child—that you will safely, reliably get your physical and emotional needs met by the person who is responsible for your care. Without this base, it is very difficult to learn to trust people or know who is trustworthy. This can lead to difficulty maintaining relationships due to fear of being controlled or abused. It can also lead to unhealthy relationships because the adult doesn’t know what a good relationship is.
Core feelings of being "worthless" or "damaged." If you’ve been told over and over again as a child that you are stupid or no good, it is very difficult to overcome these core feelings. You may experience them as reality. Adults may not strive for more education, or settle for a job that may not pay enough, because they don’t believe they can do it or are worth more. Sexual abuse survivors, with the stigma and shame surrounding the abuse, often especially struggle with a feeling of being damaged.
Trouble regulating emotions. Abused children cannot express emotions safely. As a result, the emotions get stuffed down, coming out in unexpected ways. Adult survivors of child abuse can struggle with unexplained anxiety, depression, or anger. They may turn to alcohol or drugs to numb out the painful feelings.
Types of child abuse
There are several types of child abuse, but the core element that ties them together is the emotional effect on the child. Children need predictability, structure, clear boundaries, and the knowledge that their parents are looking out for their safety. Abused children cannot predict how their parents will act. Their world is an unpredictable, frightening place with no rules. Whether the abuse is a slap, a harsh comment, stony silence, or not knowing if there will be dinner on the table tonight, the end result is a child that feel unsafe, uncared for, and alone.
Emotional child abuse
Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me? Contrary to this old saying, emotional abuse can severely damage a child’s mental health or social development, leaving lifelong psychological scars. Examples of emotional child abuse include:
Constant belittling, shaming, and humiliating a child.
Calling names and making negative comparisons to others.
Telling a child he or she is "no good," "worthless," "bad," or "a mistake."
Frequent yelling, threatening, or bullying.
Ignoring or rejecting a child as punishment, giving him or her the silent treatment.
Limited physical contact with the child—no hugs, kisses, or other signs of affection.
Exposing the child to violence or the abuse of others, whether it be the abuse of a parent, a sibling, or even a pet.
Child neglect
Child neglect—a very common type of child abuse—is a pattern of failing to provide for a child's basic needs, whether it be adequate food, clothing, hygiene, or supervision. Child neglect is not always easy to spot. Sometimes, a parent might become physically or mentally unable to care for a child, such as with a serious injury, untreated depression, or anxiety. Other times, alcohol or drug abuse may seriously impair judgment and the ability to keep a child safe.
Older children might not show outward signs of neglect, becoming used to presenting a competent face to the outside world, and even taking on the role of the parent. But at the end of the day, neglected children are not getting their physical and emotional needs met.
Physical child abuse
Physical child abusePhysical abuse involves physical harm or injury to the child. It may be the result of a deliberate attempt to hurt the child, but not always. It can also result from severe discipline, such as using a belt on a child, or physical punishment that is inappropriate to the child’s age or physical condition.
Many physically abusive parents and caregivers insist that their actions are simply forms of discipline—ways to make children learn to behave. But there is a big difference between using physical punishment to discipline and physical abuse. The point of disciplining children is to teach them right from wrong, not to make them live in fear.
Physical abuse vs. Discipline
In physical abuse, unlike physical forms of discipline, the following elements are present:
Unpredictability. The child never knows what is going to set the parent off. There are no clear boundaries or rules. The child is constantly walking on eggshells, never sure what behavior will trigger a physical assault.
Lashing out in anger. Physically abusive parents act out of anger and the desire to assert control, not the motivation to lovingly teach the child. The angrier the parent, the more intense the abuse.
Using fear to control behavior. Parents who are physically abusive may believe that their children need to fear them in order to behave, so they use physical abuse to "keep their child in line." However, what children are really learning is how to avoid being hit, not how to behave or grow as individuals.
Child sexual abuse: A hidden type of abuse
Help for child sexual abuse:
1-888-PREVENT (1-888-773-8368) Stop It Now
1-800-656-HOPE Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
Or visit ChiWorld.org for a list of other international child helplines
Child sexual abuse is an especially complicated form of abuse because of its layers of guilt and shame. It's important to recognize that sexual abuse doesn't always involve body contact. Exposing a child to sexual situations or material is sexually abusive, whether or not touching is involved.
While news stories of sexual predators are scary, what is even more frightening is that sexual abuse usually occurs at the hands of someone the child knows and should be able to trust—most often close relatives. And contrary to what many believe, it’s not just girls who are at risk. Boys and girls both suffer from sexual abuse. In fact, sexual abuse of boys may be underreported due to shame and stigma.
The problem of shame and guilt in child sexual abuse
Aside from the physical damage that sexual abuse can cause, the emotional component is powerful and far-reaching. Sexually abused children are tormented by shame and guilt. They may feel that they are responsible for the abuse or somehow brought it upon themselves. This can lead to self-loathing and sexual problems as they grow older—often either excessive promiscuity or an inability to have intimate relations.
The shame of sexual abuse makes it very difficult for children to come forward. They may worry that others won’t believe them, will be angry with them, or that it will split their family apart. Because of these difficulties, false accusations of sexual abuse are not common, so if a child confides in you, take him or her seriously. Don’t turn a blind eye!
Warning signs of child abuse and neglect
Warning signs of child abuse and neglectThe earlier child abuse is caught, the better the chance of recovery and appropriate treatment for the child. Child abuse is not always obvious. By learning some of the common warning signs of child abuse and neglect, you can catch the problem as early as possible and get both the child and the abuser the help that they need.
Of course, just because you see a warning sign doesn’t automatically mean a child is being abused. It’s important to dig deeper, looking for a pattern of abusive behavior and warning signs, if you notice something off.
Warning signs of emotional abuse in children
Excessively withdrawn, fearful, or anxious about doing something wrong.
Shows extremes in behavior (extremely compliant or extremely demanding; extremely passive or extremely aggressive).
Doesn’t seem to be attached to the parent or caregiver.
Acts either inappropriately adult (taking care of other children) or inappropriately infantile (rocking, thumb-sucking, throwing tantrums).
Warning signs of physical abuse in children
Frequent injuries or unexplained bruises, welts, or cuts.
Is always watchful and "on alert," as if waiting for something bad to happen.
Injuries appear to have a pattern such as marks from a hand or belt.
Shies away from touch, flinches at sudden movements, or seems afraid to go home.
Wears inappropriate clothing to cover up injuries, such as long-sleeved shirts on hot days.
Warning signs of neglect in children
Clothes are ill-fitting, filthy, or inappropriate for the weather.
Hygiene is consistently bad (unbathed, matted and unwashed hair, noticeable body odor).
Untreated illnesses and physical injuries.
Is frequently unsupervised or left alone or allowed to play in unsafe situations and environments.
Is frequently late or missing from school.
Warning signs of sexual abuse in children
Trouble walking or sitting.
Displays knowledge or interest in sexual acts inappropriate to his or her age, or even seductive behavior.
Makes strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an obvious reason.
Doesn’t want to change clothes in front of others or participate in physical activities.
An STD or pregnancy, especially under the age of 14.
Runs away from home.
Child abuse and reactive attachment disorderChild abuse and reactive attachment disorder
Severe abuse early in life can lead to reactive attachment disorder. Children with this disorder are so disrupted that they have extreme difficulty establishing normal relationships and attaining normal developmental milestones. They need special treatment and support. Learn more
Risk factors for child abuse and neglect
While child abuse and neglect occurs in all types of families—even in those that look happy from the outside—children are at a much greater risk in certain situations.
Domestic violence. Witnessing domestic violence is terrifying to children and emotionally abusive. Even if the mother does her best to protect her children and keeps them from being physically abused, the situation is still extremely damaging. If you or a loved one is in an abusive relationships, getting out is the best thing for protecting the children.
Alcohol and drug abuse. Living with an alcoholic or addict is very difficult for children and can easily lead to abuse and neglect. Parents who are drunk or high are unable to care for their children, make good parenting decisions, and control often-dangerous impulses. Substance abuse also commonly leads to physical abuse.
Untreated mental illness. Parents who suffering from depression, an anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, or another mental illness have trouble taking care of themselves, much less their children. A mentally ill or traumatized parent may be distant and withdrawn from his or her children, or quick to anger without understanding why. Treatment for the caregiver means better care for the children.
Lack of parenting skills. Some caregivers never learned the skills necessary for good parenting. Teen parents, for example, might have unrealistic expectations about how much care babies and small children need. Or parents who were themselves victims of child abuse may only know how to raise their children the way they were raised. In such cases, parenting classes, therapy, and caregiver support groups are great resources for learning better parenting skills.
Stress and lack of support. Parenting can be a very time-intensive, difficult job, especially if you’re raising children without support from family, friends, or the community or you’re dealing with relationship problems or financial difficulties. Caring for a child with a disability, special needs, or difficult behaviors is also a challenge. It’s important to get the support you need, so you are emotionally and physically able to support your child.
Recognizing abusive behavior in yourself
If you need professional help...
Do you feel angry and frustrated and don’t know where to turn? In the U.S., call 1-800-4-A-CHILD to find support and resources in your community that can help you break the cycle of abuse. In other countries, visit Chiworld.org for helplines.
Do you see yourself in some of these descriptions, painful as it may be? Do you feel angry and frustrated and don’t know where to turn? Raising children is one of life’s greatest challenges and can trigger anger and frustration in the most even tempered. If you grew up in a household where screaming and shouting or violence was the norm, you may not know any other way to raise your kids.
Recognizing that you have a problem is the biggest step to getting help. If you yourself were raised in an abusive situation, that can be extremely difficult. Children experience their world as normal. It may have been normal in your family to be slapped or pushed for little to no reason, or that mother was too drunk to cook dinner. It may have been normal for your parents to call you stupid, clumsy, or worthless. Or it may have been normal to watch your mother get beaten up by your father.
It is only as adults that we have the perspective to step back and take a hard look at what is normal and what is abusive. Read the above sections on the types of abuse and warning signs. Do any of those ring a bell for you now? Or from when you were a child? The following is a list of warning signs that you may be crossing the line into abuse:
How do you know when you’ve crossed the line?
You can’t stop the anger. What starts as a swat on the backside may turn into multiple hits getting harder and harder. You may shake your child harder and harder and finally throw him or her down. You find yourself screaming louder and louder and can’t stop yourself.
You feel emotionally disconnected from your child. You may feel so overwhelmed that you don’t want anything to do with your child. Day after day, you just want to be left alone and for your child to be quiet.
Meeting the daily needs of your child seems impossible. While everyone struggles with balancing dressing, feeding, and getting kids to school or other activities, if you continually can’t manage to do it, it’s a sign that something might be wrong.
Other people have expressed concern. It may be easy to bristle at other people expressing concern. However, consider carefully what they have to say. Are the words coming from someone you normally respect and trust? Denial is not an uncommon reaction.
Breaking the cycle of child abuse
If you have a history of child abuse, having your own children can trigger strong memories and feelings that you may have repressed. This may happen when a child is born, or at later ages when you remember specific abuse to you. You may be shocked and overwhelmed by your anger, and feel like you can’t control it. But you can learn new ways to manage your emotions and break your old patterns.
Remember, you are the most important person in your child’s world. It’s worth the effort to make a change, and you don’t have to go it alone. Help and support are available.
Tips for changing your reactions
Learn what is age appropriate and what is not. Having realistic expectations of what children can handle at certain ages will help you avoid frustration and anger at normal child behavior. For example, newborns are not going to sleep through the night without a peep, and toddlers are not going to be able to sit quietly for extended periods of time.
Develop new parenting skills. While learning to control your emotions is critical, you also need a game plan of what you are going to do instead. Start by learning appropriate discipline techniques and how to set clear boundaries for your children. Parenting classes, books, and seminars are a way to get this information. You can also turn to other parents for tips and advice.
Take care of yourself. If you are not getting enough rest and support or you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are much more likely to succumb to anger. Sleep deprivation, common in parents of young children, adds to moodiness and irritability—exactly what you are trying to avoid.
Get professional help. Breaking the cycle of abuse can be very difficult if the patterns are strongly entrenched. If you can’t seem to stop yourself no matter how hard you try, it’s time to get help, be it therapy, parenting classes, or other interventions. Your children will thank you for it.
Learn how you can get your emotions under control. The first step to getting your emotions under control is realizing that they are there. If you were abused as a child, you may have an especially difficult time getting in touch with your range of emotions. You may have had to deny or repress them as a child, and now they spill out without your control.
Helping an abused or neglected child
What should you do if you suspect that a child has been abused? How do you approach him or her? Or what if a child comes to you? It’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed and confused in this situation. Child abuse is a difficult subject that can be hard to accept and even harder to talk about.
Just remember, you can make a tremendous difference in the life of an abused child, especially if you take steps to stop the abuse early. When talking with an abused child, the best thing you can provide is calm reassurance and unconditional support. Let your actions speak for you if you’re having trouble finding the words. Remember that talking about the abuse may be very difficult for the child. It’s your job to reassure the child and provide whatever help you can.
Tips for talking to an abused child
Avoid denial and remain calm. A common reaction to news as unpleasant and shocking as child abuse is denial. However, if you display denial to a child, or show shock or disgust at what they are saying, the child may be afraid to continue and will shut down. As hard as it may be, remain as calm and reassuring as you can.
Don’t interrogate. Let the child explain to you in his or her own words what happened, but don’t interrogate the child or ask leading questions. This may confuse and fluster the child and make it harder for them to continue their story.
Reassure the child that they did nothing wrong. It takes a lot for a child to come forward about abuse. Reassure him or her that you take what is said seriously, and that it is not the child’s fault.
Safety comes first. If you feel that your safety or the safety of the child would be threatened if you try to intervene, leave it to the professionals. You may be able to provide more support later after the initial professional intervention.
Reporting child abuse and neglect
If you suspect a child is being abused, it's critical to get them the help he or she needs. Reporting child abuse seems so official. Many people are reluctant to get involved in other families' lives.
Understanding some of the myths behind reporting may help put your mind at ease if you need to report child abuse.
reporting child abuse
reporting child abuse
If you suspect a child is being abused, it's critical to get them the help he or she needs. Reporting child abuse seems so official. Many people are reluctant to get involved in other families' lives.
Understanding some of the myths behind reporting may help put your mind at ease if you need to report child abuse.
I don’t want to interfere in someone else’s family. The effects of child abuse are lifelong, affecting future relationships, self-esteem, and sadly putting even more children at risk of abuse as the cycle continues. Help break the cycle of child abuse.
What if I break up someone’s home? The priority in child protective services is keeping children in the home. A child abuse report does not mean a child is automatically removed from the home - unless the child is clearly in danger. Support such as parenting classes, anger management or other resources may be offered first to parents if safe for the child.
They will know it was me who called. Reporting is anonymous. In most places, you do not have to give your name when you report child abuse. The child abuser cannot find out who made the report of child abuse.
It won’t make a difference what I have to say. If you have a gut feeling that something is wrong, it is better to be safe than sorry. Even if you don’t see the whole picture, others may have noticed as well, and a pattern can help identify child abuse that might have otherwise slipped through the cracks.
Making your voice heard when reporting child abuseReporting child abuse can bring up a lot of difficult emotions and uncertainty. You may ask yourself if you're doing the right thing, or question if your voice will even be heard. Here are some tips for communicating effectively in difficult situations:
Try to be as specific as you can. For example, instead of saying, "The parents are not dressing their children right," say something like, "I saw the child running outside three times last week in subzero weather without a jacket or hat. I saw him shivering and uncomfortable. He seemed to want to come inside." However, remember that it is not your job to "prove" abuse or neglect. If suspicions are all you have, you should report those as well.
Understand that you may not learn of the outcome. Due to confidentiality laws in the U.S., unless you are a mandated reporter in an official capacity, you probably won't be updated by Child Protective Services (CPS) about the results of their investigation. The family may not broadcast that they have been mandated services, either—but that doesn't mean they are not receiving them.
If you see future incidences, continue to call and report them. Each child abuse report is a snapshot of what is going on in the family. The more information that you can provide, the better the chance of getting the best care for the child.
Reporting abuse in the home or in child custody situationsWitnessing abuse in your own home or suspecting abuse in a custody situation brings its own set of challenges and concerns. You may be afraid of what your abuser will do to you and your children if you speak up. You may also be concerned that the abuser will be able to cover his or her tracks or even turn the abuse around onto you. Culturally, it may not be acceptable for you to separate, adding additional feelings of shame and isolation. You may also be afraid of having your children taken away from you.
Don’t go it alone
Domestic violence isn’t just about black eyes. Manipulation and emotional threats to you and your children are also a form of abuse, power, and control. Fear of losing custody of the children can be extremely stressful for both women and men in abusive relationships. Child abuse allegations in divorce or child custody issues are viewed very carefully to ensure they are not motivated by vindictiveness. However, if your abuser appears professional, well-groomed, and well-spoken to the outside world, you may feel like your concerns aren’t being taken seriously. Worse, if your allegations remain unproven, they may even result in the abuser being given custody.
Therefore, if you are planning to separate, or have already separated and are in a custody battle, it is essential to get support and legal advice. Domestic violence organizations can help you connect with legal resources in your community, and may be able to provide an advocate to assist your case and attend court hearings. Domestic violence organizations can help you work out a safety plan for both you and your children, and in the U.S. can also help you make calls to CPS if needed.
The U.S. organization Justice for Children provides useful tips on how to proceed in reporting child abuse in your home or in a custody situation:
Stay CALM. Do not let your emotions dictate your actions, and do not vent your emotions onto the people who are assigned to investigate your case (CPS, law enforcement officers, etc.).
IF THIS IS AN EMERGENCY: Call 911 or your local police.
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING from this point forward, including times, dates, and places. KEEP all documents from all professionals who have an opinion about the child abuse. This includes therapists, doctors, policemen, and teachers. If a professional informs you that they have an opinion or a suspicion of child abuse, have them document that suspicion, preferably in the form of an affidavit. Be sure to get a copy of any opinions from professionals regarding your child's case.
HAVE YOUR CHILD EVALUATED. Talk to medical and psychology professionals. If possible, have your child evaluated at a Child Assessment Center.
BEGIN INVESTIGATION. Talk to law enforcement officers to initiate an investigation into the allegation of child abuse. Any reasonable belief of abuse or neglect should be reported to the police. If you have been too afraid to voice allegations in the past, let them know. If you have previously reported abuse, communicate the fact that you are trying to protect the child from further harm
TALK TO CPS. If the abuse is not criminal, talk to CPS to initiate an investigation into the allegation of child abuse.
GET AN ATTORNEY. Get an attorney and start proceedings to gain full custody of your child and terminate the abuser's parental rights.
CALL JUSTICE FOR CHILDREN. If you encounter a problem with completing steps 3-6, call JFC at 1-800-733-0059. Office hours are M-F 8-5 pm Central Standard Time.
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http://www.helpguide.org/mental/child_abuse_physical_emotional_sexual_neglect.htm
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Canadian Forces survey asks troops to shed light on sexual assault, harassment
There were 176 sexual assaults reported to Canadian military police in 2010, the most recent statistics available. That compares to 166 incidents in each of the ...
By Sue Bailey and Alison Auld, The Canadian Press
http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/men/Canadian+Forces+survey+asks+troops+shed+light+sexual+assault/8500443/story.html
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Honourable Peter MacKay, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, will participate in a roundtable discussion on the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights.
-- Opening remarks and brief Q&A only
Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Time: 9:30am (local time)
Location: Crowne Plaza Moncton Downtown
Carleton Room
1005 Main Street
Moncton, New Brunswick
Contacts:
Paloma Aguilar
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice
613-992-4621
Media Relations Office
Department of Justice
613-957-4207
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OH LORD...
Jail unlikely in child porn case
August 9, 2013 - 9:26pm By FRANCES WILLICK Staff Reporter
Rehtaeh Parsons
.
A Dalhousie law professor says he doesn’t expect the two teenagers charged in the Rehtaeh Parsons case to end up in jail.
Wayne MacKay said it’s relatively rare for young people to be accused of child pornography offences.
"I’d be surprised if young people charged with this normally spend any jail time," he said Friday.
ALSO SEE: Police say arrests couldn't have come before now
MORE COVERAGE: Online activists hindered Parsons investigation, police say
FROM OUR ARCHIVES: Complete Coverage of Rehtaeh Parsons case
Police announced Thursday evening that two 18-year-olds had been charged in Rehtaeh’s case. One faces a charge of making child porn and a charge of distributing it, while the other faces two charges of distributing child porn. Neither has been named because both were minors when the alleged offences occurred.
The teens are to appear in Halifax youth court next Thursday.
MacKay said the Youth Criminal Justice Act contains "alternative measures" such as community service that can replace a sentence of incarceration.
Under the Criminal Code, an adult convicted of making or distributing child pornography receives a mandatory minimum sentence of a year in jail for an indictable offence and six months for a summary conviction.
But there are no mandatory minimum sentences for young offenders.
Last year in British Columbia, a teenager was sentenced to a year on probation for distributing obscene material by emailing photos of an alleged rape at a party in Pitt Meadows, B.C. The court also instructed the teen, who was not named because of his age, to write an essay on the negative effects of social media.
Another young man, Dennis Warrington, was given a conditional discharge with 18 months on probation for distributing obscene material by posting photos of the same alleged assault on his Facebook page.
Both young men were initially charged with child porn offences but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge.
MacKay believes that some people who have been following the Parsons case might view sentences like that as too lenient.
"I think people would be pretty unhappy with that," he said.
The high-profile nature of the case shouldn’t influence the sentencing, but MacKay said the judge will have the world spotlight to contend with.
"Judges, I’m sure, are very principled about it, but they do live in the real world," he said. "It would be hard not to know that the world is watching what they’re going to do out of the Rehtaeh Parsons case."
The Avalon Sexual Assault Centre in Halifax issued a statement on its Facebook page Friday evening urging more education and greater awareness about child pornography laws.
The charges in the Parsons case send a message to the community that making and distributing child porn are criminal actions, the statement said.
"Given the prevalence of the spreading of pornographic images through new technologies, we must continue to push for more education and awareness on these issues, as well as the new laws," the Facebook post says.
Police did not lay sexual assault charges in the case, saying there was not enough evidence.
Rehtaeh’s parents say the Cole Harbour teen was assaulted in November 2011 when she was 15.
Avalon also called for changes in societal attitudes toward sexual assault.
"In order to prevent a similar situation from occurring again and to heal and move forward as a community, we need to change rape culture that condones and perpetuates sexual victimization, improve our understanding of consent, improve sexual assault response and increase sexual assault programs and services in Nova Scotia."
A third young Nova Scotian will also appear in youth court next week to face child porn charges.
A 14-year-old boy from the Preston area is charged with making and possessing child pornography and making it available to others.
Police allege the boy took a video of a consensual sex act involving a 15-year-old girl without her knowledge and posted the video on a social media site.
(fwillick@herald.ca)
http://thechronicleherald.ca/metro/1146950-jail-unlikely-in-child-porn-case
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Egyptian ambassador lauds 'prudent' stance by Canada regarding coup
Aug 07, 2013 - 7:05 UTC
Egypt's ambassador has praised Canada's "prudent" response to recent events within his country, including its decision to move on after declaring last month's ouster of Egyptian president Mohammed Morsi a coup.
Canada was one of the few countries in the world to describe Morsi's ejection on July 3 as a coup, a label that carries strong political connotations as it raises questions about the legitimacy of his removal.
But the Conservative government has also said Morsi was responsible for his own ouster, which came after protests that saw tens of thousands of Egyptians rise up in anger throughout the country.
Since then Canada has issued several calls for political dialogue and an end to fighting between Egyptian security forces and Morsi supporters, but otherwise adopted a waitand-see approach without choosing sides.
In an interview, Egyptian Ambassador Wael Aboulmagd said his country's interim government is committed to, and moving forward on, a plan to address the concerns that led to Morsi's removal in the first place and introduce a stronger democracy to Egypt.
He went on to describe Canada's response to the events in Egypt as "prudent" and "constructive," as it is "essentially focusing on being positive: Insisting that everyone have a dialogue; and that everyone condemn violence, not only refrain from violence."
The ambassador noted that although the Conservative government initially called the events of July 3a coup, it has continued to engage with Egyptian authorities at all levels and look forward instead of back.
"Between the lines they chose, wisely in my view, not to get entangled in the very complicated, very emotional debate of characterizing what happened in Egypt," Aboulmagd said. The question of whether Morsi's removal at the hands of the country's military after protests that saw tens of thousands of Egyptians take to the streets was indeed a coup has been central to the upheaval raging inside the Arab state.
More than 100 people have been killed and hundreds more wounded in clashes between security forces and Morsi supporters demanding his return to power.
The question of coup or no coup also has legal implications in some countries such as the United States, which would be barred from continuing to supply Egypt millions of dollars in aid and military assistance if it decides a coup has occurred.
An official in Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird's office said the government stands by its decision to call Morsi's ouster a coup, but that Canada is also hoping for a more democratic era for Egypt.
Aboulmagd said it's important Egyptians and the world "accept the situation whereby large, large, large numbers of Egyptians felt the country was being hijacked and taken in a wrong direction, and to be part of the political process moving forward."
Some may have expected Canada to come out strongly in support of Morsi's removal from power as ties between the Conservative government and the Islamist Egyptian leader were tense, particularly when it came to Israel and human rights.
Canada's ambassador in Cairo was called in for a dressing down in the spring after Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird had a controversial meeting with an Israeli politician in East Jerusalem.
There was also a sharp, behindthe-scenes exchange between Baird and Aboulmagd shortly afterward in which the Canadian minister cited Morsi's description in 2010 of Jews as descendants of apes and pigs.
Canada had also expressed concern about the treatment of religious minorities under Morsi's Islamist government.
But Bessma Momani, a Middle East expert at the Centre for International Governance and Innovation in Waterloo, Ont., said declaring Morsi's ouster a coup reiterated Canada's belief in the importance of democratic institutions and transitions.
"Just by signalling that this was a coup, despite the fact that we didn't have the most warm and fuzzy relationship with the Morsi government, was actually pretty bold," she said.
The fact the government is continuing to engage with Egyptian authorities despite the label, however, "means they have come to terms with reality, that this was perhaps a popular coup," she said.
Beyond that, Momani believed Canada has taken the right approach given the huge number of unknowns surrounding Egypt's short-term future.
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