House Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs - ACVA - Recognition of Persian Gulf Veterans - 31 October 2024

Appearance Details

Date:

31 October 2024

Location:

TBD

Time:

12:00 – 13:00

Witnesses:

ACVA Profiles

• Emmanuel Dubourg
• Luc Desilets
• Blake Richards
• Sean Casey
• Rachel Blaney
• Cathay Wagantall
• Wilson Miao
• Bryan May
• Terry Dowdall
• Fraser Tolmie
• Randeep Sarai
• Lisa Hepfner

Emmanuel Dubourg

LPC – Bourassa (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2013 (By-election)
• Re-elected: 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor's degree in Accounting and an MBA
• Politics: Member of the National Assembly of Quebec (2007 – 2013)
• Public Servant: Manager, CRA (1987 – 2007)
• Accounting: International Tax and Audit Consultant, CRC Sogema (2000 – 2002)

Connection to DND/CAF

• NIL.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Former Critic: National Revenue (2014 – 2015); Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec (2015)
• Parliamentary Secretary: National Revenue (2015 – 2017)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – 2019, 2024 – present)
• Former Member: National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2017 – 2019)

Committee Membership

• Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present); Liaison Committee (2019 – Present)
• Former Chair: Standing Committee on Official Languages (2020 – 2021)
• Former Member: Special Committee on Canada-China Relations (2020 – 2021, 2022 - 2023); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (2021); Standing Committee on Official Languages (2021 – 2022); Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (2017 – 2018)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Foreign Influence/Interference:

• Over the course of several Special Committee on Canada-China Relations meetings, Mr. Dubourg asked questions relating to China's ability to influence people beyond its borders. He frequently asked witnesses to characterize the nature and extent of the issue and to evaluate Canada's efforts to respond. In particular, he pressed for information about how well various Canadian government departments and agencies share information with one another.

Cyber-Security:

• During several meetings of the Special Committee on Canada-China Relations, Mr. Dubourg asked questions related to Canada's cyber-security, seeking information about the general nature of threats, as well as Canada's efforts to counter them. Mr. Dubourg asked several witnesses whether they had been contacted by Canadian intelligence agencies regarding cyber-threats. He asked officials to describe their department or agencies' cooperation with FVEYs partners.

Haiti:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development in November 2022, Mr. Dubourg inquired about what problems would the Canadian Military face if they were deployed in Haiti.

National Memorial Monument to the Canada Mission to Afghanistan:

• On a Facebook, Mr. Dubourg made a post describing the monument and its purpose.

Other Interests

Immigration:

• During a meeting of the Special Committee on Canada-China Relations in 2020, Mr. Dubourg questioned witnesses on efforts to streamline procedures to help people from Hong-Kong immigrate to Canada. He asked how effective the program was and whether anything more could be done.
• During the same meeting, Mr. Dubourg also asked whether Canada's efforts to streamline the immigration process for citizens of Hong Kong was seen by China as a sanction.

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Luc Desilets

BQ – Rivière-des-Mile-Îles (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Studies: Certificate in Human Resource Management, Bachelor's degree in Criminology, Bachelor's degree in Academic and Social Adaptation and a Master's degree in Psycho- Education
• Education: Deputy Director of a Comprehensive School (2002 – 2010); Primary School Principal (2011 – 2017); Education Consultant (2017 – 2019)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Uncle served in the CAF and was killed in action during the Korean War.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Critic: Veterans Affairs (2019 – Present)
• Former Critic: National Revenue (2019 – 2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 – Present); Canadian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (2020 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2020 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2020 – Present)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• In September 2024, at a meeting on Persian Gulf Veterans, Mr. Desilets inquired into the financial differences between veterans receiving insurance for "wartime service" and "special duty service".
• In the same meeting Mr. Desilets inquired as to whether Persian Gulf veterans feel as though their work has not been fairly valued.

Elimination of Marriage after 60 Clause:

• Mr. Desilets is a vocal advocate of repealing the "Marriage after 60" clause of the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act. During meetings of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Mr. Desilets often asks witnesses how the clause may be repealed.

Mental Health:

• Mr. Desilets recognizes the issues of mental health and the high suicide rate among veterans, and he does not hesitate to ask questions to better understand the situation and find solutions.
• During a statement in the House on Mental Health Week in May 2022, Mr. Desilets stated that veterans are more likely to be dealing with mental health problems, compared not only to members of the military, but also to the general public.

Language:

• Mr. Desilets has raised concerns regarding the provision of services to veterans in French, both in committee and in the House. For instance, in the House he drew attention to the longer wait times experienced by French-speaking veterans applying for benefits through Veterans Affairs Canada.
• At meetings of ACVA in 2021, Mr. Desilets expressed concern that private entities might be relied upon to develop and enforce a national standard for service dogs, because private organizations, in the past, have not offered service in French.

Sexual misconduct:

• In September 2024, Mr. Desilets rose in the house to point out that the first report on sexual misconduct in the military was produced in 2015, he then inquired why, after 9 years, the issue is ongoing.
• During a meeting of ACVA in June 2023, Mr. Desilets inquired about the sexual misconduct women face within the CAF, and if medical releases from CAF owing to sexual trauma are more common than other medical releases.
• Mr. Desilets rose in the House on multiple occasions to ask whether former Minister of National Defence Sajjan should resign as a result of his handling of the allegations against then CDS Vance.
• During a meeting of ACVA in 2021, Mr. Desilets claimed that women were leaving the CAF after being subject to sexual misconduct and asked a witness whether a newly created Office of Women and LGBTQ2 Veterans at Veterans Affairs Canada was sufficient to respond to the issue.

Experience of Women:

• During a meeting of ACVA in February 2024, Mr. Desilets asked what systems can be simplified so women can have quicker access to medical services.
• During a meeting of ACVA in June 2023, Mr. Desilets asked questions regarding the different realities that men and women face in their service in CAF, specifically on the percentage of women that are sent on missions.

National Monument to the Mission in Afghanistan:

• In a meeting of ACVA in May 2024, Mr. Desilets referred to a veteran's petition that he would be putting forward which stated that political scandal and interference undermined the 10th anniversary of the mission in Afghanistan and therefore the National Monument no longer represented veteran commitments and sacrifices.
• Mr. Desilets remains critical of the process Veterans Affairs used to determine the design of the final monument.
• During Question Period in February 2024, Mr. Desilets asked if the government would grant the contract to the Daoust team.
• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Mr. Desilets inquired about how involved the Prime Minister was in the decisions of the National Monument to Canada's Mission in Afghanistan.

Disability Claims Backlog:

• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Mr. Desilets asked how different the processing times were for applications made by francophones compared to anglophones, along with the differences in processing times for requests made by women compared to men.
• During question period in June 2023, Mr. Desilets asked questions regarding the backlog of disability claims, and what the Government will do to address this backlog.
• During question period in June 2023, Mr. Desilets asked questions regarding the backlog of disability claims and how Francophones veterans wait longer to access services.

Other Interests

Seniors:

• Mr. Desilets frequently rises in the House to advocate for higher pension payments for seniors.

Workplace Violence/Harassment:

• In September 2024, Mr. Desilets rose in the house to support the Conservative Party of Canada's Bill C-378 that would amend the Canada Labour Code by extending the timeframe to file a complaint for harassment or violence in a federally regulated workplace from three months to two years. This aligns with Mr. Desilets interest in supporting CAF members who experience sexual misconduct.

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Blake Richards

CPC – Banff - Airdrie (AB)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2008
• Re-elected: 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of Calgary
• Professional Experience: Volunteer Fire Fighter, Realtor, Political Assistant, Businessman, and Member of the Royal Canadian Legion's Exshaw branch

Connection to DND/CAF

• Vice-Chair on the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs.
• Runs a newsletter called the "Veteran Insider".

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Shadow Minister: Veterans Affairs (2022 – Present)
• Former Whip: Chief Opposition Whip (2020 – 2022)
• Former Shadow Minister: Tourism and Western Economic Diversification (2019 – 2020); Small Business and Export Promotion, and Tourism (2018 – 2019); Democratic Institutions (2017 – 2018); Tourism (2017 – 2018)

Committee Membership

• Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2022 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs (2022 – Present); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2022); Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2022); Liaison Committee (2022)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2015 – 2018; 2020)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2022); Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations reviews and scrutinized government regulations and other statutory instruments (2022); Liaison Committee (2015; 2022); Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2015 – 2020); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020); Standing Committee on Finance (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Electoral Reform (2016); Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development (2015); Standing Committee on International Trade (2014 – 2015); Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2014)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• At a committee meeting in June 2024 and again in September 2024, Mr. Richards noted that he believes that Persian Gulf Veterans should receive "wartime service" designation.
• In October of 2024, Mr. Richards repeatedly stated that the Minister of National Defence is responsible for creating policy to change the service designation for Gulf War veterans.
• Further, Mr. Richards accused the Minister of National Defence for being a "roadblock" to solving the issue at hand.

Experience of Women Veterans:

• In an ACVA meeting in December 2023, Mr. Richards asked what the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is doing to ensure equipment or kit for women is appropriate for their use.

National Monument to the Mission in Afghanistan :

• During a debate on the 13th report of the ACVA in December 2023, Mr. Richards shared his concerns on how the "Prime Minister's Office interfered in this matter inappropriately".
• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Mr. Richards moved a motion in relation in ACVA's study on the National Monument to Canada's Mission in Afghanistan, to further examine the decision to change designs. As a part of this motion, ACVA would invite MGen Lise Bourgon to appear.

Military Chaplains:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs in October 2023, Mr. Richards moved a motion to have ACVA conduct a study on reports that Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) chaplains have been directed by the government to restrict or cease prayer at public ceremonies.
• Mr. Richards has asked Order Paper Question Q-1868 regarding CAF Chaplains and Morale.
• During Question Period in November 2023, Mr. Richards inquired about the restrictions on prayer at public ceremonies.

Disability Benefits Applications:

• During an ACVA meeting in May 2023, Mr. Richards moved a motion to have the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide information regarding third party gender-based analysis of disability benefits adjunction research.
• During several ACVA meetings, Mr. Richards has inquired about delays and inconsistencies between CAF and VAC determinations about whether an injury is service related or not.
• During several ACVA meetings and member statements in 2023, Mr. Richards has made comments regarding failures to meet the 16-week deadline that VAC sets for application processing.

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Sean Casey

LPC – Charlottetown (PEI)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021
• Re-elected: 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Education: Bachelor of Business Administration from St Francis Xavier University, J.D. from Dalhousie Law School
• Lawyer: Managing Partner, Stewart McKelvey (1989 – 2011)
• Business: President of the Paderno Group (Cookware) (2003 – 2008)
• Advocacy: President of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce (2009 – 2010)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Veterans Affairs Canada’s headquarters are in Charlottetown.
• Riding is home to the Prince Edward Island Regiment (RCAC), a Reserve Army unit.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – Present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2019 – Present)
• Former Critic: Veterans Affairs (2011 – 2012); Justice (2013 – 2015)
• Former Assistant Critic: Justice (2011 – 2013)
• Parliamentary Secretary: Fisheries and Oceans and Canadian Coast Guard (2018 – 2019); Canadian Heritage (2017 – 2018); Justice and Attorney General of Canada (2015 – 2017)

Committee Membership

• Chair: Standing Committee on Health (2021 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2011 – 2013, 2020 - Present); Liaison Committee (2020 – Present); Standing Committee on Health (2021 – Present)
• Former Chair: Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (2019 – 2021)
• Former Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2011 – 2013); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2013 – 2015)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Optional Survivor Benefit:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Mr. Casey asked a witness for statistics on how many people participate in the Optional Survivor Benefit program, noting that it seemed that those who needed it were those least likely to be able to afford it.

Sexual Misconduct:

• During a meeting of the National Defence Committee on Sexual Misconduct in 2021, where he acted as a substitute, Mr. Casey recognized the issues of sexual misconduct within the CAF and took the time to mention the steps taken by the CAF to ensure effective culture change.

Disability Applications Backlog:

• During the past Parliamentary session, Mr. Casey frequently questioned witnesses at ACVA about the backlog of disability claims applications. At ACVA, Mr. Casey tends to ask resource focused questions to understand the dimensions of an issue and possible solutions.
• During an ACVA meeting in June 2023, Mr. Casey questioned how the size of the backlog has affected Veterans and if it had any effects on the culture of the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Budget Cuts:

• During an ACVA meeting, Fairness in the services offered to veterans in March 2022, Mr. Casey has made reference to the negative effect on service delivery created by budget cuts to Veterans Affairs Canada in 2011 to 2015.

Indigenous Veterans:

• During Question Period in November 2023, Mr. Casey asked the Prime Minister what the government is doing to ensure recognition of Indigenous veterans.

Recruitment and Retention:

• During several meetings of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs in 2023, Mr. Casey inquired about what the government can do to improve the Canadian Armed Forces to be an ideal career, specifically for women.

Health and Transition Services Between CAF and VAC:

• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Mr. Casey inquired about the difficulties of establishing if a claim can be linked to military service.
• During the same meeting, Mr. Casey asked if veterans could hire a doctor to do an independent medical examination to help their claim, and if these costs would be covered by Veterans Affairs.

Other Interests

Charlottetown:

• Mr. Casey is an extremely vocal supporter of his constituency, and often brings issues from Charlottetown to discussion in both the House and committee. He is particularly interested in subjects which impact employment in Charlottetown. During several meetings of ACVA, Mr. Casey was very critical of a witness who noted that Veterans Affairs Canada’s location in Charlottetown was an impediment to bilingual staff recruitment.

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Rachel Blaney

NDP – North Island-Powell River (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor’s degree in First Nation Studies
• Non-Profit: Employment Officer, Homalco First Nation (1998 – 2007)
• Non-Profit: Executive Director, Immigrant Welcome Centre North Vancouver Island (2007 – 2015)

Connection to DND/CAF

• CFB Comox is in her riding.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Critic: Industry (Rural Economic Development) (2021 – Present); Employment and Social Development (Seniors) (2021 – Present); Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present)
• Whip of the New Democratic Party: (2019 – 2024)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – Present)
• Former Critic: Veterans Affairs (2019 – Present); Employment and Social Development (Seniors) (2018 – 2019); Canadian Heritage (Multiculturalism) (2015 – 2017); Deputy Critic Infrastructure & Communities (2015 – 2018)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2015 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2015 – 2023)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2015 – 2019); Indigenous and Northern Affairs (2018 – 2019)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• At an October 2024 ACVA committee meeting, Ms. Blaney affirmed her support for Persian Gulf Veterans to receive a “wartime service” designation.

Marriage after 60:

• Ms. Blaney is a vocal advocate for the repeal of the "Marriage after 60" clause in the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act. She has consistently demonstrated concern that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) does not adequately ensure that members are aware of the implications of the clause.
• Ms. Blaney moved that the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs carry out a study on Survivor Retirement Pension Benefits in 2022. In the Committee’s report, the NDP included a supplementary opinion recommending that the Government immediately eliminate the "Marriage after 60" clause from all pension legislation. Previously, in 2021, In 2021, Ms. Blaney also introduced a Private Member’s Bill (C-221) on this issue.
• As a guest member at a Main Estimates meeting of the Standing Committee on National Defence (NDDN) in June 2022, Ms. Blaney asked the Minister of National Defence about the "Marriage after 60" clause and asked if she plans to eliminate it from the pension legislation.
• During an ACVA meeting in October 2023, Ms. Blaney stated that they will “always ask questions about marriage after 60” and asked the Minister of Veterans Affairs when the Gold Digger clause will be eliminated.

Optional Survivor Benefit:

• During ACVA meetings in May 2022, Ms. Blaney demonstrated interest in the Optional Survivor Benefit and opined that it would be a difficult benefit for low-income members to use. Ms. Blaney asked witnesses if contributions to this benefit are returned to a retiree, should their spouse die before them.

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Ms. Blaney is a strong advocate for the rights and respect of women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community. She therefore does not hesitate to ask questions about the treatment, support, representation and recognition of these groups in various federal institutions.
• During an ACVA meeting on fairness in the services offered to veterans in March 2022, Ms. Blaney suggested that it is not uncommon for women to be released from the military because of injuries and other things that happen to them during their service. She added that there is not a model to recognize women as having service-related injuries.
• During the same meeting, Ms. Blaney criticized the CAF for allegedly not collecting data on the LGBTQ2S+ representation in their ranks, declaring that “when you don't collect data, it is a way of silencing people.”

Health and Transition Services in the CAF:

• In September 2024, Ms. Blaney rose in the House during Question Period to advocate for extending medical insurance for veterans taking part in the Invictus Games.
• As a guest member at an NDDN meeting regarding health and transition services in May 2023, Ms. Blaney expressed interest in service attribution for medically releasing members and suggested that “between the CAF and VAC, we’re seeing too many people falling through the cracks.”
• During the same meeting, Ms. Blaney also asked the DND/CAF Ombudsman about legislation to instate independent ombuds offices that report directly to Parliament and have expanded investigative powers. Specifically, she wondered how this legislation would protect CAF members and veterans when it comes to “resolving the deeper issues in health services and transition and benefits.”
• During Statements by Members in November 2022, Ms. Blaney gave a statement regarding health care for military women. She suggested that while perinatal and health services for veterans and military women appear in three mandate letters (including for the Minister of National Defence), “nothing is moving forward.” She added that “military and veteran women deserve to have equitable research and knowledge about the risks of the unique workplace exposures possible from the military.”

Suicide and Section 98(C):

• During both committee meetings and in the House, Ms. Blaney has brought up the issue of suicide in the CAF and noted that provisions of the National Defence Act (NDA) penalize self-harm, which stigmatizes those who face mental health challenges and creates a barrier for those seeking help. She has called for these provisions to be removed from the NDA and seconded a Private Member’s Bill on this topic.

Cost of Living:

• In December 2022, Ms. Blaney asked a question on the Order Paper regarding the Post Living Differential (PLD) allowance, broken down by Canadian Forces bases, region and year.
• During an AVCA meeting in December 2023, Ms. Blaney asked if there has been any consideration for having veteran housing for women only due to housing insecurity.

Sexual Misconduct:

• In September 2024, Ms. Blaney rose in the house to support the Military Justice System Modernization Act,emphasizing support for women veterans and the need for them to be included in the Bill’s consultation processes.
• In October 2023, Ms. Blaney has submitted Order Paper Question Q-1888 regarding the total number of sexual misconduct complaints in 2022 and 2023, what administrative actions were taken, number of complaints that went before a military tribunal, the total number of cases transferred to the RCMP or provincial police forces, number of cases declined and average number of days for the relevant jurisdiction to accept or reject the case.

DND and Veterans Affairs Canada Collaboration:

• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Ms. Blaney inquired on how Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is collaborating with CAF to invest in women's health research.
• During a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Ms. Blaney asked how closely DND and VAC work together to ensure that veterans are supported.

Data Collection During Service:

• In a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, Ms. Blaney asked witnesses what kind of data they thought should be gathered during their service to ensure they have access to the supports they need from VAC.
• In the same meeting, Ms. Blaney inquired if this data should be gathered externally to increase accountability and less connection to the CAF.

Order Paper Questions:

• Ms. Blaney has asked two Order Paper Questions Q-2841 and Q-2842 to Veterans Affairs Canada with regards to the administration of the Veteran and Family Well-being Fund and other funding programs managed by Veterans Affairs Canada.

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Cathay Wagantall

CPC – Yorkton-Melville (SK)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Business: Owner of Positive Signs Inc. (2011 – 2021)
• Education: Administration and Development, Taylor University College and Seminary (1998 – 2004)
• Politics: Conservative Party of Canada board of directors for Edmonton-Mill Woods- Beaumont where she worked as election readiness chair, president and financial agent.

Connection to DND/CAF

• NIL.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Former Assistant Critic: Veterans Affairs (2015 – 2017)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – 2020)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2016 – Present);
• Former Member: Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2021 – 2022)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• In an October ACVA committee meeting, Ms. Wagantall indicated that the Department of National Defence should be accountable for not having a visible policy on the determination of "wartime service" and "special duty service" for CAF members.

Research:

• At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Ms. Wagantall referenced a qualitative study on the financial well-being of survivors married after 60, by Dr. Eric Li, and asked witness whether the study included an adequate diversity of perspectives.

Mental Health:

• At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs regarding the study on Fairness in the Services Offered to Veterans in March 2022, Mrs. Wagantall stated that "according to federal figures, roughly 400 soldiers are medically released from the Canadian Forces each year due to mental illness, and upwards of 70 per cent of them have partners and children". She then asked witnesses how it impacts the overall health of that veteran and their ability to succeed coming out of the service.
• At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs in October 2023, Ms. Wagantall asked witnesses how mental trauma has impacted them with their lives after service, and if any form impacted them the most, or if it is a combination.
• In various Take-note debates in the House, Ms. Wagantall has provided several critics Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and how veterans interacting with VAC experience "unprecedented levels of sanctuary trauma"

Experience of Women Veterans:

• Through several Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs meetings, Ms. Wagantall has focused questions on the experience of women veterans in their dealings with Veterans Affairs Canada.

Military Chaplains:

• On a Facebook post in October 2023, Ms. Wagantall has alleged that the Government has cancelled prayers at Remembrance Day ceremonies and that the Government has blocked an investigation into the matter.
• On Facebook, Ms. Wagantall has posted and shared several posts on Military Chaplains.

Mefloquine:

• In committee and in the House, Mrs. Wagantall criticized the use of Mefloquine, which she said, "had devastating results for CAF members".

Service Dogs:

• During meetings of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Mrs. Wagantall promotes the creation of a national service dogs program for veterans and is calling on the government to implement national standards for these dogs.

Veterans Survivors Fund:

• During a meeting Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs on Survivor Pension Benefits in April 2022, Mrs. Wagantall criticized the fact that the development of the Veterans Survivors Fund was solely base on a research done by a professor after only interviewing seven surviving spouses and three veterans.

Other Interests

Priorities:

• Her priorities include standing up for the most vulnerable in society and defending and protecting the fundamental Charter rights to freedom of conscience, religion, belief, and expression.
• Ms. Wagantall has also introduced varying legislation advocating and introducing legislation to protect pregnant women from violence.

Ukraine:

• Ms. Wagantall is of Ukrainian heritage and has made statements regarding the conflict.

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Wilson Miao

LPC – Richmond Centre (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021
• Re-elected: NIL

Professional Background

• Media: Director Of Communications & Marketing, Richmond Sentinel (2018 – 2021)
• Real Estate: Closing Sales Coordinator, Polygon Homes Ltd. (2014 – 2016); Real Estate Consultant, Macdonald Reality Westmar (2017 – Present)
• Marketing: Opulence Global Partner Lifestyle Advisor, Opulence Global (2011 – Present)

Connection to DND/CAF

• NIL.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• NIL.

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present); Standing Committee on International Trade (2021 – Present)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Pension Contributions:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Mr. Miao asked whether a repeal of the "Marriage after 60" clause of the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act would cause pension contributions to increase.

Survivor Pension Needs:

• During a meeting of ACVA, Mr. Miao asked whether the announced $150 million Veterans Survivors' Fund would meet the basic needs of survivors.

LGBTQ Veterans:

• During a meeting of ACVA in March 2022, Mr. Miao asked what barriers have been identified by the Office of Women and LGBTQ2 Veterans, and pressed witnesses to explain how this information could be used to assist Veterans Affairs Canada disability benefits adjudicators. Mr. Miao tends to ask open-ended questions to elicit information, explore problems, and find solutions.

Commemoration:

• During a meeting of ACVA in March 2022, Mr. Miao indicated his support for efforts to involve youth in commemoration activities.

Veterans Affairs Services:

• In a September 2024 committee meeting, Mr. Miao asked witnesses how Veterans Affairs Canada can improve its services for future veterans including roles of liaison officers and other proactive measures that can be taken.
• During a meeting of ACVA in March 2022, Mr. Miao asked if veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces are able to access services through nine re-opened Veterans Affairs Canada offices, despite the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience of Women:

• During a meeting of ACVA in June 2023, Mr. Miao asked witnesses to provide recommendations to help prevent sexual misconduct or trauma from happening in the military and how to move forward.
• During a meeting of ACVA in November 2023, Mr. Miao inquired about what specific research needs to be done to help improve conditions for women veterans.

Other Interests

Copyright:

• During the 44th Parliament, Mr. Miao sponsored private Member Bill C-244, a bill which would alter the Copyright Act to allow the circumvention of a technological protection measure in a computer program for the purpose of the diagnosis, maintenance or repair of the product.

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Bryan May

LPC – Cambridge (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Non-Profit: General Manager, Boys and Girls Club of Niagara Falls (2013 – 2015)
• Non-Profit: General Manager, YMCA of Woodstock (2008 – 2012); Director, Membership of YMCA of Cambridge (2002 – 2008)

Connection to DND/CAF

• NIL.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Small Business and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (2023 – Present)
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of National Defence (2021 –2023)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canada NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2017 / 2018 - 2019)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2023 – Present)
• Former Chair: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2020 – 2021); Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (2016 – 2019)
• Former Member: Standing Committing on National Defence (2021 – 2023); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on National Defence (2021 – 2023) Liaison Committee (2020 – 2021); Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2020 – 2021)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Personnel:

• Mr. May has a strong background in human resources, and has specific experience with addressing workplace harassment, violence and sexual misconduct. For example, he was the Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development during which the Committee studied various bills related to harassment, violence and sexual misconduct.
• During these studies, the Committee heard from witnesses on the subject of human resources practices and measures to address sexual misconduct. The Committee also heard from federal employees and employers about their personal experiences with workplace harassment or sexual violence.

Recruitment and Retention:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee on National Defence (NDDN) in September 2023, Mr. May asked for an update regarding recruitment and retention for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
• During another NDDN meeting on recruitment and retention in April 2022, Mr. May observed that the CAF has specific recruitment targets for underrepresented groups but have faced persistent challenges in meeting those targets. He asked witnesses what factors are driving these challenges and if other countries around the world have been more successful in recruiting from diverse groups.
• During the same meeting, Mr. May acknowledged the family-work balance issues for CAF personnel and asked the witnesses what measures the CAF could develop in the short term to improve the situation.
• During another NDDN meeting on this study in April 2022, Mr. May suggested that most Canadians have a very limited understanding of what a career in the CAF looks like, and asked witnesses what the CAF is doing to change this.

Monument to the Canadian Forces Mission in Afghanistan:

• During several meetings of the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs in 2023, Mr. May made statements regarding the importance of conducting the survey to get veterans' opinions on the monument.

Culture Change:

• During a meeting of ACVA in November 2023, Mr. May asked about what the main challenges women veterans and those part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community face when transitioning to civilian life.

Transition to Civilian Life:

• During an ACVA meeting in November 2023, Mr. May inquired on how to improve the diversity advisory groups on military bases to help support members transition to civilian life.

Sexual Misconduct:

• In September 2024, Mr. May rose to voice his support for the Military Justice System Modernization Act, highlighting that it is another important step the Defence Team is taking towards institutional reform and strengthening trust and confidence in the military justice system.
• During an NDDN meeting on Main Estimates in June 2022, Mr. May asked National Defence witnesses how National Defence is advancing victim-centric approaches to sexual misconduct, and how long it will take to get these programs up and running.

Arctic Security:

• During a November 2022 NDDN meeting on Arctic security, Mr. May asked academic witnesses to describe the "most important steps Canada can take to advance its interest, enhance its Arctic security more broadly, and productively cooperate with its Allies." He also asked how the federal government can work with Northern and Indigenous communities to advance Arctic security.
• At the same meeting, Mr. May asked witnesses whether Canada is doing enough in terms of Allied military exercises in the Canadian Arctic. In addition, he asked about the pros and cons of potentially expanding such exercises.
• During a separate November 2022 NDDN meeting on Arctic security, Mr. May asked the Commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC) how concerned Canada should be about the potential transit of foreign nuclear submarines in the Northwest Passage.
• During the same meeting, Mr. May also asked the Commander of CJOC what Canada is currently doing to monitor foreign submarine activity in the Arctic, and how Canada can enforce its sovereignty. He further asked what Canada requires to "monitor and respond adequately to foreign subs in our water right now."
• At another NDDN meeting on Arctic security in December 2022, Mr. May asked the Prime Minister's National Security Intelligence Advisor (NSIA) about the implications of China's Arctic policy on Canada's Arctic sovereignty. Additionally, he wondered what Canada is doing to "curb attempts by China to assert itself in the North."

NORAD Modernization:

• In February 2023, during an NDDN meeting, Mr. May asked LGen Pelletier, Deputy Commander of NORAD, what capabilities Canada needs to invest in for NORAD modernization.

NATO Contributions:

• During a February 2022 NDDN meeting on threat analysis and CAF operational readiness, Mr. May wondered about the contributions Canada should make "in the coming decades" and how those contributions should be prioritized.
• During a March 2022 NDDN meeting on threat analysis and CAF operational readiness, Mr. May asked DOS SJS how Canada's role in NATO operations under Op REASSURANCE compares to those of other NATO member states.

Indo-Pacific Engagement:

• During a February 2022 NDDN meeting on threat analysis and CAF operational readiness, Mr. May asked witnesses about the role of military cooperation in Indo-Pacific relations, and how this deepens engagement in the region.

Cyber:

• During NDDN meetings on Cybersecurity and Cyberwarfare, Mr. May regularly asked about the cybersecurity threats and risks, and asked witnesses for recommendations on how to address Canada's cyber vulnerabilities.
• At an NDDN meeting on Main Estimates in June 2022, Mr. May asked National Defence witnesses how the funding requested to modernize and upgrade DND's information management and information technology platforms will protect National Defence systems against cyber-attacks from foreign actors like Russia.

Defence Industry and Procurement:

• During House Debate on National Defence spending in April 2022, Mr. May acknowledged the need to move forward with a procurement program for the Cormorant helicopter fleet.

Environment:

• At an NDDN meeting on Main Estimates in June 2022, Mr. May mentioned that "that DND's greenhouse gas emissions have increased over the past few years while at the same time, we've seen an increase in the need for CAF due to climate change issues, which will undoubtedly further increase emissions." He then asked National Defence witnesses how they plan to "reconcile these pressures to ensure that DND hits their goal of zero emissions."

Housing:

• During a statement in the House on military housing in May 2022, Mr. May explained the various measures National Defence is taking to resolve the housing crisis for CAF members and emphasized the importance of addressing this issue to avoid undermining the effectiveness of the CAF.

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Terry Dowdall

CPC – SIMCOE - Grey (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Politics: 18 years of municipal experience in the Township of Essa as Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillor
• Politics: Served three terms on the board of directors for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Business: Small business and commercial property owner

Connection to DND/CAF

• Canadian Forces Base Borden located in riding.
• Member of NDDN and participated in studies such as addressing sexual misconduct issues in the CAF and access to mental health services within the CAF.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Former Deputy Critic: Small Business and Export Promotion (2019 – 2020)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2022 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Defence (2020 – 2021); Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2021 – 2022)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Mental Health of CAF Members:

• Expressed strong support for the 2017 joint DND/CAF-Veterans Affairs suicide prevention strategy. Mr. Dowdall asked the MND about the supports in place and whether the right money is being invested. He has asked witnesses on several occasions for suicide statistics in the CAF and whether there has been improvement (he has stated that this is something he wants to know "constantly").
• Keen interest in the well-being of CFB Borden members and expressed to the MND that mental health is a "huge issue" at the base. He has asked witnesses about CFB Borden's relationship with local hospitals and the community, and the need for 24/7 mental health assistance.

Military Planning and Resources:

• Ensuring adequate funding and equipment.
• Strong advocate for improved infrastructure for the CAF. He asked the Commander of CJOC whether Canadian soldiers felt they were lacking the tools necessary to do their jobs during the NATO mission in Iraq.
• During NDDN meeting asked whether Canada should establish and fund a dedicated section of the CAF exclusively for domestic operations.
• In a meeting of the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs in May 2023, Mr. Dowdall inquired if the Canadian Forces Health Services has the necessary budget to cover the recommendations the Committee is suggesting.

Veterans Homelessness and Employment Opportunities:

• Over several ACVA meetings in 2023, Mr. Dodwall asked questions regarding how to ensure that veterans are able to provide for themselves after transitioning out of CAF.
• During a meeting of ACVA in February 2024, Mr. Dodwall asked about the current number of homeless veterans and if the number has decreased since the issue has been recognized.

Sexual Misconduct

• During an ACVA meeting in May 2023, Mr. Dowdall inquired about sexual misconduct currently occurring in CAF, and the CAFs focus on addressing sexual misconduct before it occurs.

Other Interests

Future of Warfare:

• During NDDN asked about the future use of cyber warfare and AI, and how international norms have been impacted to this new technology.

Health:

• Strong advocate in Parliament for those suffering from Cystic Fibrosis; continues to press the Government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies and create access to medicines for Canadians living with the disease.

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Fraser Tolmie

CPC – Moose Jaw - Lake Centre - Lanigan (SK)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor's degree in War Studies from King's College University of London
• Municipal Politics: City Councillor of the city of Moose Jaw (2009 – 2012); Mayor of the city of Moose Jaw (2016 – 2021)

Connection to DND/CAF

• CFB Moose Jaw is in his riding.
• He served as an Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Deputy Shadow Minister: Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021 – Present)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• In an October 2024 ACVA committee meeting, Mr. Tolmie emphasized the need for a clear policy on "wartime service" and "special duty service" designations.
• Further, Mr. Tolmie highlighted that this designation issue has been ongoing for over eight years as previously Korean War veterans advocated for the same designation change.

Military Justice System Modernization Act:

• In September 2024, Mr. Tolmie rose in the house to support Bill C-66 to address sexual misconduct in the CAF. However, he highlighted the need for the Bill to include consultations with appropriate stakeholders and to ensure the civilian judicial system is capable to handle these cases given current backlogs.

Mandate Letter:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, Mr. Tolmie noted that the Minister of Veterans Affairs was given the task of ending the "Marriage after 60" clause in the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act in their 2015 Mandate Letter, but that subsequent Mandate Letters have omitted this task. He has asked witnesses why this change was made, and if stakeholders were informed.

Operational Capability:

• During the debate in the House on the Opposition Motion on National Defence spending in April 2022, Mr. Tolmie declared that it is paramount for Canada to invest in operational military capability, and that and that investing 2% of GDP in defence would sustain CAF and its operational effectiveness.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• During the debate in the House on the Opposition Motion on National Defence spending in April 2022, Mr. Tolmie stated that Canada should not only rely on its ally to protect the Canadian Arctic, and that Canada need to invest in the upgrade of its submarines fleet to protect Canadian northern waters.

Medical Records:

• Mr. Tolmie has shown on several occasions during the meetings of ACVA his interest in the transfer of medical records of Veterans from CAF to Veterans Affairs.
• During a meeting of ACVA in December 2023, inquired on ways to streamline the claims process to reduce wait times and stress on veterans.
• During a meeting of ACVA in May 2023, Mr. Tolmie inquired about the creation of a system to allow for veterans to have more control over their medical records.

Veterans Survivors Fund:

• During a meeting of Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs on Survivor Pension Benefits in April 2022, Mr. Tolmie mentioned his frustration and disappointment toward the fact that the development of the Veterans Survivors Fund was solely based on a research done by a professor after only interviewing seven surviving spouses and three veterans.

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Randeep Sarai

LPC – Surrey-Centre (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Law: Lawyer, TDS Lawyers (2015 – Present); Sarai & Associates (2002 – 2005)
• Private Enterprise: Principal, Sarai Group of Companies (2006 – Present); Vice President – Loan Remediation, Sprott Resource Lending (2008 – 2011); President, Pineridge Golf Course (2008 – 2010); Officer, Alpenglow Development Ltd. (2005 – 2009)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee during its study of the "Situation at the Russia-Ukraine Border and Implications for Peace and Security."

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence (2023 - Present)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2023 – Present)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co- operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (January 2016 – March 2022); Canada-China Legislative Association (2015 – 2020)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2023 – Present)
• Former Chair: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2021 – 2023)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2021 – 2023); Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2021 – 2023); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2021 – 2023); Liaison Committee (2021 – 2023); Special Committee on the Economic Relationship between Canada and the United States (2021); Standing Committee on International Trade (2020 – 2021);

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

Service Designation for Persian Gulf Veterans:

• In a September 2024 ACVA committee meeting, Mr. Sarai inquired about general awareness of CAF members, veterans, and the general population regarding "wartime" and "special duty" service designations.
• Further, Mr. Sarai inquired into the emotional impact these designations had on the CAF veteran witness.

Flooding in British Columbia:

• Mr. Sarai thanked the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) for their assistance in responding to the flooding in British Columbia in November 2021, and he noted how "thousands of Canadian Armed Forces" were on standby to assist further if needed.

Russia's Invasion of Ukraine:

• Mr. Sarai questioned National Defence witnesses to the Foreign Affairs committee about Ukraine's military capacity and level of preparedness, as well as US and broader NATO military presence in and around Ukraine.
• During the take-note debate in the House of Commons in February 2022, Mr. Sarai rose to highlight the government's contributions to Ukraine, including the provision of lethal and non-lethal equipment, and the training provided to the Ukrainian Armed Forces by the CAF through Operation UNIFIER.

Medical Records:

• In a meeting of the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs in November 2023, Mr. Sarai inquired about how medical records are transferred from CAF to Veterans Affairs Canada.

Transition Services:

• In ACVA meetings, Mr. Sarai has asked witnesses how might the transition from CAF to civilian life be improved.
• In a meeting of ACVA in February 2024, Mr. Sarai asked if new adopted processes are addressing previous gaps.

Other Interests

Temporary Foreign Workers:

• Mr. Sarai sponsored a Private Members' Motion to expand pathways for temporary foreign workers to acquire permanent residency. The motion was agreed to by the House on May 11, 2022.

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Lisa Hepfner

LPC – Hamilton Mountain (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Professional Experience: Television news journalist for CHCH
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Journalism from the University of Calgary and Toronto Metropolitan University, Master's degree in Communications Management from McMaster University
• Awards: Received the YWCA Hamilton's 2011 Women of Distinction Award for politics and public affairs for her advocacy work in support of women and girls

Connection to DND/CAF

• NIL.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth (September 2023 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2023 - Present); Standing Committee on the Status of Women (September 2023 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage (September 2021 – February 2024); Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (December 2021 – September 2023)

Points of Interest to DND/CAF

CMMA Procurement:

• During a meeting of the Standing Committee of National Defence (NDDN) in November 2023, Ms. Hepfner questioned witnesses on if Bombardier's proposed aircraft can meet the Canadian multi-mission aircraft operational recruitments.

Procurement Process:

• In a meeting of NDDN in November 2023, Ms. Hepfner asked witnesses about the differences in procurement practices between Canada, and other countries Bombardier has contracts with.
• In the same meeting, Ms. Hepfner asked how the Government of Canada can collaborate better with the Canadian aerospace industry.

Climate Changes:

• During Adjournment Proceedings in November 2023, Ms. Hepfner made a statement thanking the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) for their role in providing airlift capacity and on the ground assistance in response to wildfire season.

Other Interests

Women's Advocacy:

• On several occasions, Ms. Hepfner has spoken about issues facing women, most recently during Member Statements in February 2024 on how the Government currently supports women through various measures, like the childcare benefit policy.

Recognition of Persian Gulf Veterans

Key Facts

Special Duty Operations and Areas Designation

Key Facts

Background

Per the Veterans' Well-being Act S.69 and S.70:

• 69 (1) The Minister of National Defence, after consulting the Minister of Veterans Affairs, may by order designate an area as a special duty area if
  • (a) the area is outside Canada;
  • (b) members have been deployed, or will be deployed, to that area as part of an operation of a type referred to in section 71; and
  • (c) the Minister of National Defence is of the opinion that that deployment has exposed, or may expose, those members to conditions of elevated risk.
• 70 (1) The Minister of National Defence, after consulting the Minister of Veterans Affairs, may by order designate as a special duty operation any operation, or any component of it, if
  • (a) the operation is of a type referred to in section 71;
  • (b) members have been deployed, or will be deployed, as part of that operation; and
  • (c) the Minister of National Defence is of the opinion that that deployment has exposed, or may expose, those members to conditions of elevated risk.
• 71 For the purposes of paragraphs 69(1)(b) and 70(1)(a), the types of operations are as follows:
  • (a) an armed conflict;
  • (b) an operation authorized under the Charter of the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty, the North American Aerospace Defence Command Agreement or any other similar treaty instrument;
  • (c) an international or a multinational military operation;
  • (d) an operation authorized to deal with a national emergency, as that term is defined in section 3 of the Emergencies Act, in respect of which a declaration of emergency is made under that Act;
  • (e) an operation authorized under section 273.6 or Part VI of the National Defence Act, or other similar operation authorized by the Governor in Council;
  • (f) an operation that, in the opinion of the Minister of National Defence, is a search and rescue operation;
  • (g) an operation that, in the opinion of the Minister of National Defence, is a disaster relief operation;
  • (h) an operation that, in the opinion of the Minister of National Defence, is a counter-terrorism operation; and
  • (i) an operation involving a level of risk that, in the opinion of the Minister of National Defence, is comparable to that normally associated with an operation referred to in paragraphs (a) to (e).
• The request to categorize as either SDO or SDA is generated by the Canadian Joint Operations Command, the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, and the North American Aerospace Defence Command as the Force Employers.
• Force Employers are responsible for the planning and conduct of operations, as directed by the Chief of the Defence Staff, in order to meet Government of Canada requirements.
• Typically, if the Joint Operations Area is expansive, the Force Employer will request to be designate as an SDA.
• If an operational area is not as expansive, then they will typically request to designate it as an SDO. It is up to the Force Employer to make the call on whether it is more appropriate to request for SDO or SDA.
• The SDO/SDA process is initiated by the Force Employer, then staffed to Strategic Joint Staff, and then Chief Military Personnel. The request subsequently goes to Veterans Affairs Canada and then to the Minister of National Defence, through the Chief of the Defence Staff, for a Ministerial Order to designate an SDO or SDA.

Inquiry of Ministry

Question NO.:
Q-2858

By:
Ms. Blaney (North Island-Powell River)

Date:
June 17, 2024

Reply by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence Réponse de la ministre des Anciens Combattants et ministre associée de la Défense nationale

Signed by the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor

Question:

With regard to the administration of benefits to veterans: (a) how does Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) distinguish between Wartime service (WS), Special Duty Area service (SDA), and Special Duty Operation service (SDO); (b) in what ways does VAC deliver to disability or pension benefits differently to veterans based on their classification in (a); and (c) what are the details of all consultations undertaken by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the Minister of National Defence since January 1, 2023, regarding the reclassification of WS, SDA, or SDO, including the (i) date of consultation, (ii) group or organization consulted, (iii) geographic area of service?

Reply:

Veterans Affairs Canada

a) How does Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) distinguish between Wartime service (WS), Special Duty Area service (SDA), and Special Duty Operation service (SDO)?

Veterans Affairs Canada distinguishes between war service (World War I, World War II and the Korean War), Special Duty Areas and Special Duty Operations based on the legislative authorities that were passed by Parliament in the Pension Act and the Veterans Well-being Act.

Specifically, service during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War are included in the Pension Act as service during war. Service in all other conflicts, operations, and deployments in which Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and Veterans have taken part, including all current deployments, are designated by Order of the Minister of National Defence, in consultation with the Minister of Veterans Affairs, as either a "Special Duty Area" or a "Special Duty Operation" – commonly called "Special Duty Service" - under the authority of the Veterans Well-being Act.

Wartime Service:

• Wartime service is not a defined type of service in Veterans Affairs Canada's legislation. Meaning there is no specific criteria required to establish what is a period of "wartime service".
• The term "wartime service" is found in in the Disability Benefits in Respect of Wartime and Special DutyService – The Insurance Principle (Insurance Principle policy). In the policy "wartime service" refers to the periods of service (wars) that fall under the Insurance Principle, in the same eligibility category as special duty service.
  • The "Insurance Principle" is the legislative test applied to determine eligibility for disability benefits for wartime and special duty service.
• The only periods of service that fall within "wartime service" include World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, although these are named individually in the Pension Act, Veterans Healthcare Regulations, and War Veterans Allowance Act. Veterans Affairs Canada's legislation does not refer to any other conflicts as "wars".
• The Insurance Principle policy is specific with respect to what is covered under the label of "wartime service" and it includes the following:
  • Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) – World War I:
    • "World War I": August 4, 1914 - August 31, 1921
    • "Theatre of Actual War": August 14, 1914 - November 11, 1918
  • Active Force/National Resources Mobilization Act (NRMA) – World War II:
    • "World War II": September 1, 1939 - April 1, 1947
    • "Theatre of Actual War":
      • Outside of Canada: September 1, 1939 - May 9, 1945
      • Pacific Ocean or Asia: September 1, 1939 - August 15, 1945
  • Special Force – Korean War:
    • Korean War: July 5, 1950 to October 31, 1953
  • Regular Force attached to the Special Force in a Theatre of Operations – Korean War:
    • Theatre of Operations – If Struck-Off Strength (SOS) Canada or continental USA before midnight July 27, 1953 - July 5, 1950 to October 31, 1953
• The definitions for the terms from the Insurance Principle policy listed above are set out in Section 3(1) of the Pension Act. The defined terms include: "World War I, World War II, service in a theatre of actual war, Korean War, service in the Korean War, and special force."
• No conflict or operation in which members of the Canadian Armed Forces have served has been legislated as a war since the Korean War. Only Special Duty Service designations have been used since that point in time.

Special Duty Service:

• Section 2(1) of the Veterans Well-being Act (VWA) defines the term "Special Duty Service (SDS)" as service in a designated Special Duty Area (SDA) or Special Duty Operation (SDO). The Pension Act defers to the definition found in the VWA. The definition also sets out that SDS includes:
  • Periods of training related to service in that area as part of that operation;
  • Travel to and from the area or operation; and
  • Authorized leave of absence during that service period.
• Special Duty Areas are designated under section 69 of the VWA. They cannot predate January 1, 1949, and must meet the following criteria to be designated:
  • The area is outside of Canada;
  • Members have been deployed to the area as part of an operation that falls within the list found in section 71 (listed below); and
  • Where CAF members are exposed to conditions of elevated risk.
• Special Duty Operations are designated under section 70 of the VWA. They cannot predate September 11, 2001, and must meet the following criteria to be designated:
  • The operation must be one of the operation types listed in section 71;
  • Members must be deployed as part of that operation; and
  • military mission or operation in or outside Canada which involves elevated risk.
• The types of operations that may be designated as Special Duty Service are listed in section 71 of the VWA, they include:
  • An armed conflict;
  • An operation authorized under the Charter of the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty or the North American Aerospace Defence Command Agreement;
  • An international or multinational military operation;
  • An operation that is authorized to deal with a national emergency;
  • An operation authorized under section 273.6 of Part VI of the National Defence Act or similar operation authorized by the Governor in Council;
  • A search and rescue operation;
  • A disaster relief operation;
  • A counter-terrorism operation; and
  • An operation involving a level of risk that is comparable to that normally associated with the type of operations listed above.
• As per the VWA, Special Duty Areas and Special Duty Operations may be designated by order made by the Minister of National Defence, after consulting with the Minister of Veterans Affairs, as long as the criteria noted above has been met.

b) In what ways does VAC deliver disability or pension benefits differently to veterans based on their classification in (a)?

A disability benefit is a tax-free, financial payment to support a Veteran's well-being.

The amount a Veteran receives depends on the degree to which their condition is related to their service (entitlement) and the severity of their condition, including its impact on their quality of life (assessment). Eligibility is not determined by the type of release but rather by having a current health problem primarily resulting from service that creates barriers to life after service.

The eligibility indicators in the following chart do not imply that all Veterans with that service type are eligible for a given benefit. Specific eligibility criteria vary depending on when and where a Veteran served and on the legislation and regulations that govern the benefit. Eligibility is assessed for each individual based their individual circumstances.

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c) What are the details of all consultations undertaken by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the Minister of National Defence since January 1, 2023, regarding the reclassification of WS, SDA, or SDO, including the (i) date of consultation, (ii) group or organization consulted, (iii) geographic area of service?

Engagement with stakeholders is important to Veterans Affairs Canada which maintains open dialogue with Canadians in formal and informal format. Veterans Affairs Canada has hosted several national and regional stakeholder summits and town hall sessions since 2016. To date, Veterans Affairs Canada has not undertaken a formal consultation on Persian Gulf Veterans. However, stakeholder engagement and outreach continue across a wide variety of virtual and in person mechanisms in conjunction with the online platform titled "Let's Talk Veterans". This accessible consultation tool allows Veterans Affairs Canada to gather information from the broad Veteran community with a focus on efforts to improve the design and delivery of programs for Veterans and their families. Information received helps Veterans Affairs Canada to better support Veterans and their families. By engaging in ongoing dialogues, Veterans Affairs Canada gathers perspectives from key target audiences (Veterans, Canadians, under- represented cohorts etc.,) to ensure their voices are heard and that Veterans Affairs Canada continues to evolve programs and policies that resonate with these key audiences.