A retired Canadian admiral is telling the federal government’s defence review – that National Defence is often paralyzed by timid bureaucrats – and politicians who pass the buck on decisions.

Retired vice-admiral Bruce Donaldson was second-in-command of the military – until a few years ago.

Donaldson says in a written brief – that the system is set up to avoid risk and accountability – and that leads to costly delays and failure to deliver necessary equipment and support.

He retired in 2013 – and Donaldson also says the public has little understanding of government finances – and has been encouraged to see spending on the military as wasteful.

He suggests that the government has done a poor job of educating Canadians on the necessary cost – of doing business as a country.