FROM THE CO:

 There has recently been a great deal of public discussion and speculation, about possible cuts facing the Cadet Program beginning next year. This was only reasonable to anticipate, in view of significant funding reductions across the entire Canadian Forces. The Air Cadet League had already been advised by its DND partners to expect that the Air Cadet Program would be expected to absorb its share.

 Air Cadet Gliding Program, in particular, is a very expensive operation and was considered early-on for reduction or even elimination. Discussions were also underway on the feasibility of reducing advanced training opportunities (e.g., International Exchange and Technical Training Courses), which involve a high per capita cost because of the smaller numbers of Cadets involved. Everything was supposed to be on the table for discussion, with the last resort – as always – being to reduce support at the Squadron level.

 The Program still is likely to face some reductions; however, the following statement by the Minister of National Defence last week was very upbeat about the future of the Cadet Program:

Statement by the Honourable Peter MacKay,

Minister of National Defence

NR – 13.130 - May 1, 2013

OTTAWA - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement concerning the Cadet Program:

“Cadet organizations across Canada play an important role in promoting good citizenship, leadership, community service and physical fitness among young Canadians. I believe in the merits of this program and the benefits it provides to Canadian communities are unparalleled. In fact, the Cadet Program is the best youth development program in Canada. As I informed the House of Commons, "I can assure the House that the Cadet Program will continue to enjoy the important use of gliders." There are to be no reductions in resources allocated to the Cadet glider program or any Cadet Program. The Cadet Program is here to stay.”

In the meantime, your Officers have been instructed by our CO, LCol MacMillan (who was our Reviewing Officer last year), to continue to deliver the ‘most dynamic program possible in the fun, safe and positive environment that represents Central Region.’

 I will keep you updated on any changes facing the Program, if and when they become factual and reliable.  In the meantime, it’s business as usual – including a full Ground School Program next Fall.

 D.S. Brown

Capt

CO

700 RCAirCS