Canada's NDP

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October 31st, 2014

Missing military uniforms and equipment a security risk

New Democrats are disturbed to learn from the Public Accounts report that thousands of pieces of Canadian military combat clothing and weapons have gone missing.

"Over half a million dollars' worth of military uniforms and equipment have been stolen or lost, and the Conservative response is inertia" said NDP Defence critic Jack Harris (St John’s East). "At a time when Conservatives are considering wide ranging anti-terror legislation, they are allowing this clear danger to public safety to worsen, unchecked."

For years, security experts have expressed concern that stolen government uniforms could allow ill-intentioned individuals to access restricted facilities. In 2004, Peter MacKay attacked the Liberal government on the same issue, and accused it of being "unaware and ineffective."

"The Defence Minister needs to get his own house in order, and explain how the government is going to recover these items and prevent future loss and theft." said NDP deputy critic for Defence Élaine Michaud (Portneuf-Jacques Cartier).