Ottawa, Ontario – Public Works and Government Services Canada
\Today, Independent Review Panel members spoke publicly about their involvement in the process to evaluate options to replace Canada’s CF-18 fleet. The Panel also released a public statement, which attested to the rigour and impartiality of the process.
The Panel, established as a part of the Seven-Point Plan for the CF-18 replacement, was comprised of experts external to government. The mandate given to Keith Coulter, Rod Monette, Philippe Lagassé and Jim Mitchell was to ensure that the evaluation of options being conducted by the Royal Canadian Air Force was both rigorous and impartial. These individuals have the technical and financial expertise to review the information provided by the Department of National Defence and also have detailed knowledge of Canada’s military and procurement systems.
In terms of next steps, ministers are reviewing a number of reports in order to make a decision on a path forward. That review includes information on fighter capabilities, industrial benefits, costs and other factors related to the decision on the path forward to replace Canada’s CF-18 fleet. Information that is not commercially sensitive or classified will be released.
In conjunction with the Panel’s comments, the Government also released its methodology report.
Quick Facts
Quotes
“When we established the Seven-Point Plan for the CF-18 replacement, we embarked on the most independent and transparent review in the history of Canada. In fulfilling their mandate, the Panel has taken their job very seriously and they have done a great service to Canada.”
The Honourable Diane Finley
Minister of Public Works and Government Services
“We are confident that the methodology produced results that will allow ministers to make a well-informed, evidence-based decision on replacing the CF-18s that is in the public interest. Today, we are providing assurances that the evaluation of options process was rigorous and impartial, and the results are comprehensive and understandable.”
The Independent Review Panel