Though Defence Minister Peter McKay is denying the rumors, federal Conservative insiders have leaked information to the media that Chief of Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier, will be replaced as Canada's top military commander when his current three-year term expires in February.
Normally the top post has a set term, but until recently many had expected an extension to be offered to Hillier. The prevailing logic being that with a combat mission underway in Afghanistan and with Hillier being so popular among the troops, for his actions to date, removing him from the position would be a step backward and perhaps jeopardize the mission.
Replacing the top military leader in any country during a time of war is not something most national leaders enter into lightly. The decision is made only as a last resort when it becomes clear that the commander is incapable or inept at performing his duties.
So what is the word coming out of Ottawa and from some senior military analysts regarding Stephen Harper's reasons for wanting to relieve Hillier of his duties?
1) Hillier made former Minister of Defense, Gordon O'Connor, "look bad" when O'Connor's department failed to ensure that the families of deceased soldiers were fully reimbursed for the cost of their loved one's funerals.
2) Hillier is popular with those he leads.
3) Hillier is popular with the Canadian public.
4) Hillier has shaken up the military establishment by promoting achievers and solid performers rather than routinely promoting individuals based on years of service or for political reasons.
5) While his political handlers are determined to source as much military equipment as possible from inside Canada, Hillier has fought to ensure that the men and women in the field are provided with the best equipment available regardless of where it comes from.
So, to recap, Stephen Harper believes that General Hillier should be replaced because he stood up for the rights grieving families, is popular, is finding the best people to fill key military roles rather than making politically motivated appointments and is doing his best to protect the troops at a time of war.
I guess from that perspective it's understandable why Stephen Harper would want to get rid of Hillier. The two men have absolutely nothing in common.
According to military and political insiders, Hillier will likely be replaced by Lt.-Gen. Walter Natynczyk. The reason he is expected to the choice of the PM is simple, "...because the prime minister likes him."
As a final note, for anyone keeping score, upon Hillier's dismissal one more Newfoundlander will be out of work thanks to ongoing efforts by the federal government. I believe that now puts a very low ball estimate at something well over 60,001 doesn't it?
