By Canadian Press

Gen. Wayne Eyre named permanent defence chief despite McDonald seeking reinstatement

Nov 25, 2021 | 11:36 AM

OTTAWA — Gen. Wayne Eyre has been officially appointed Canada’s next chief of the defence staff, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday.

“General Eyre will continue working hard to build and oversee cultural change in the Canadian Armed Forces, and to gain trust and confidence of survivors of sexual misconduct,” Trudeau said in a statement.

“I know he will keep leading our Armed Forces with distinction and professionalism as they continue to protect Canadians and their values at home and abroad.”

Eyre had been serving as acting commander of the Canadian Armed Forces since February after taking over from Admiral Art McDonald.

McDonald stepped down due to a military police investigation into an allegation of sexual misconduct, but had been seeking reinstatement after the investigation resulted in no charges. 

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The Liberal government instead put McDonald on administrative leave in August and promoted Eyre before making him permanent this week.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 25, 2021.

Lee Berthiaume, The Canadian Press

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