Committee Membership and Profiles

Profiles

John McKay

LPC – Scarborough-Guildwood (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 1997 (former riding of Scarborough East)
• Re-elected: 2000, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Law: Former real estate attorney in private practice; former President of the Durham Bar Association; former Real Estate Executive of the Canadian Bar Association
• Community: Former president of CIDO (an organization devoted to community banking in developing nations)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former Parliamentary Secretary for National Defence (2015 – 2017)
• Vice-Chair of NDDN from 2011 – 2013. During this period, NDDN studied topics such as continental defence, CAF readiness, and international defence cooperation
• Co-chair of the Permanent Joint Board of Defence

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of National Defence (2015 – 2017); Minister of Finance (2003 – 2006)
• Former Critic: Environment (2013 – 2015); National Defence (2011 – 2013); Industry (Tourism) (2008 – 2009); Treasury Board (Crown Corporations) (2006 – 2007)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2007 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Chair: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021); House Liaison Committee (2021)
• Former Chair: House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2017 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates (2010 – 2011)
• Former Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2013 – 2015); House Standing Committee on National Defence (2011 – 2013); House Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2002 – 2003)
• Former Member: House Special Committee on the Economic Relationship between Canada and the United States (2021); Liaison Committee (2010 – 2011; 2017 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2017 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2017); House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2013 – 2015); House Standing Committee on National Defence (2011 – 2013); House Standing Committee on Finance (2004 – 2010); House Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (1997 – 2000); House Standing Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (1997 – 1998; 2002 – 2003)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Procurement:

• Stressed the importance of procuring more icebreakers at the 2020 Canada-United States Law Institute conference.
• Advocated for a new agency to oversee defence procurement in a 2019 interview. Mr. McKay stated that “the current system is not working,” and that the decision process needs to be “sharper and more timely.”

Continental Defence and Canada’s Security Architecture:

• Expressed that he would like NDDN to review “Canada’s entire security architecture – from a military, intelligence, cyber perspective – so that [Canada] can face the 21st century” during a December 2021 interview.
• Underscored the importance of renegotiating the NORAD treaty during House Debate on the Canada-United States- Mexico Agreement Implementation Act in January 2020.
• Highlighted the challenge of replacing the early warning system, as well as the complexity of having an all domain warning system, as the keynote speaker on “the impact of climate change on Canadian-U.S. Defense” at a 2020 Canada-United States Law Institute conference.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• Travelled on board the HMCS Charlottetown off the coast of Nunavut in 2018. Following this trip, Mr. McKay told The Hill Times that “the Arctic is the next big frontier from a military standpoint” and emphasized the importance of Canada defending its sovereignty in the Arctic.

Military Justice:

• Participated in debate on Bill C-15 (Strengthening Military Justice in the Defence of Canada Act) in 2013. Mr. McKay specifically raised concerns regarding constitutional protections for CAF members, the ability of the VCDS to intervene in a police investigation, and the grievance process.

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)
• Education: Manager, Outreach – Cooperative Education & Career Action, University of Waterloo (2012 – 2013)
• Non-Profit: General Manager, YMCA of Woodstock (2008 – 2012)
• Non-Profit: Director, Membership of YMCA of Cambridge (2002 – 2008)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of National Defence (2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2017 / 2018 - 2019)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committing on National Defence (2021)
• 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: 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.

Defence Industry and Procurement:

• At a 2018 NDDN meeting to study Canada’s involvement in NATO, Mr. May focused his questions on defence innovation and technology. He asked officials from the NATO Industrial Advisory Group if Canada had any unique advantages in the defence technology sector, what innovations Canada could target, and what advantages these prospective innovations might confer to Canada in NATO.

Funeral Benefits for CAF Members and Veterans:

• In 2016, Mr. May rose in the House to argue that all Veterans deserve to receive a dignified burial. He asked the Minister of Veterans Affairs about efforts to ensure that CAF members and Veterans receive appropriate funeral benefits.

Other Interests:

Armenia:

• Mr. May has been the Chair of the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group since 2017. He occasionally rises in the House to bring attention to human rights and genocide generally, and the Armenian genocide in particular.
• On 22 June 2021, Mr. May presented petitions regarding the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia and called for the condemnation of Azerbaijan due to allegation that it was holding POWs illegally.

Sponsored Private Members’ Bills:

• Mr. May sponsored a private member’s bill in Feb 2016—Bill C-240: An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (tax credit — first aid) and in Feb 2021—Bill C-272: An Act to Amend the Copyright Act (diagnosis, maintenance or repair).

Kerry-Lynne Findlay

CPC – South Surry – White-Rock (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2011 (Delta—Richmond East)
• Re-elected: 2019 (South Surrey—White Rock), 2021 (South Surrey—White Rock)
  • Defeated by Carla Qualtrough in 2015

Professional Background

• Trained lawyer: Established a law practice in civil litigation, family law, employment law, aboriginal land issues, and mediation; appeared in all levels of court, including the Supreme Court of Canada; established her own law firm, KFindlay Law Group, in 2019
• Community connections: Serves as Treasurer of BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, providing support dogs to veterans with PTSD; BC India Business Network Advisory Board member; member of Rotary International, (2018-19 Club President), South Surrey White Rock Chamber of Commerce, Surrey Board of Trade, and the Canadian Bar Association

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former Associate Minister of National Defence (2013)

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Critic: National Defence (2021)
• Former Associate Minister: National Defence (2013)
• Former Minister: National Revenue (2013 – 2015)
• Former Critic: Environment and Climate Change (2019 – 2020)
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Justice (2011 – 2013)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2020 – 2021; 2011 – 2013); Canadian NATO Legislative Association (2011 – 2013)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021); House Special Committee on Afghanistan (2021)
• Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former Vice Chair: Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying (2021); House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2020)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2020 – 2021; 2011 – 2013); House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2020)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Sexual Misconduct and Culture Change:

• Following the apology given by MND, DM, and CDS in 2021, Ms. Findlay stated to the media that “it's time for the Liberals to take concrete action, including implementing the recommendations from the 2015 Deschamps report, and ensuring that the process to deal with allegations of sexual misconduct is transparent and respectful.”
• In a November 2021 video published on her social media, Ms. Findlay stated that one of her three priorities for this Parliamentary session is “ensuring all members of the CAF are treated with respect, and that the process in place to deal with allegations of sexual misconduct is transparent and respectful.”
• Ms. Findlay has often tweeted or re-posted tweets alleging a “cover-up” into sexual misconduct in the CAF and perceived “disturbing patterns” related to senior leaders being accused of misconduct.

Military Justice:

• At a 2018 NDDN meeting to study Canada’s involvement in NATO, Mr. May focused his questions on defence innovation and technology. He asked officials from the NATO Industrial Advisory Group if Canada had any unique advantages in the defence technology sector, what innovations Canada could target, and what advantages these prospective innovations might confer to Canada in NATO.

Procurement and Equipment:

• From November 2021 to January 2022, Ms. Findlay has used social media to raise major defence procurement issues, including:
  • In January 2022, she tweeted that “preparing for the warfare of the future is about more than just the much- needed fighter jets and submarines. The Canadian Armed Forces need surface warships, advanced defence systems, cyber warfare capabilities, and other tools to prepare for the conflicts of tomorrow.”
  • In December 2021, she issued a statement calling on the Liberals to announce the date of the fighter jet purchase. Ms. Findlay also tweeted that “the Liberal Government is denying our military the modern equipment needed to uphold Canada’s national security from coast to coast to coast and abroad.”
  • In a November 2021 video published on her social media, she stated that one of her three priorities for this Parliamentary session is “ensuring our brave men and women in uniform have the equipment and the resources to accomplish their mission, such as basic required kit, and streamlining procurement to replace Canada’s aging CF-18 fighter jets and outdated submarines.
• During a 2013 appearance before the House Defence Committee as Associated Minister of National Defence, she emphasized the complexity of major defence procurement projects, including: investments in the LAV III upgrade; the delivery of Chinook helicopters; and modernization of the RCN’s frigates.

Continental Defence:

• From November 2021 to January 2022, Ms. Findlay has used social media to raise continental defence issues, including:
  • In January 2022, she tweeted a quote that said “to the extent that the Americans need to ensure their continental defence in the absence of our half of the continent, they’ll simply proceed without us.” She went on to state that “our allies know that defence is not a priority for this government” and that “this must change.”
  • In January 2022, she tweeted a quote by NORAD Commander VanHerck that said “North America is only going to become more vulnerable to future capabilities being developed by potential adversaries.” She went on to state “but still, the Trudeau Liberals have refused to properly equip our brave women and men.”
  • In November 2021, she tweeted that “Russia is ramping up in the Arctic, yet Trudeau's Throne Speech offers nothing on protecting our Arctic sovereignty or purchasing new fighter jets. This needs to be a priority. We must protect our Arctic, before we lose it.”

Alliances:

• During a November 2021 media interview, Ms. Findlay stressed that maintaining partnerships such as NATO, NORAD and the Five Eyes is “vital to the defence of Canada.” She also cautioned that Canada should not be “left out” of the AUKUS defense partnership between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia.

International Operations:

• On November 15, Ms. Findlay issued a joint statement with Shadow Foreign Minister Michael Chong and Deputy Whip James Bezan reiterating CPC support for Op REASSURANCE and Op UNIFIER.

Ukraine:

• During Question Period in 2021, Ms. Findlay asked MND “who is in charge” and how Canada will defend Ukraine.
• During Supplementary Estimates (B) in 2021, Ms. Findlay asked the Minister of Foreign Affairs (MINA) about the military and diplomatic options being considered by the Government to safeguard troops in the Ukraine.

Afghanistan:

• During Question Period in 2021, Ms. Findlay asked whether the Government would support the CPC motion to examine what went wrong in Afghanistan, stating that “we promised our allies and their families protection and a new life, and the Government broke that solemn bond.”
• During Supplementary Estimates (B) in 2021, Ms. Findlay asked MINA whether the Government has had any recent “dialogue with the Taliban with regard to the release of our Afghan allies and friends.”
• In a November 2021 video published on her social media, Ms. Findlay stated that one of her three priorities for this Parliamentary session is “ensuring Canada provides critical support and expedites the safe passage process to bring to Canada those Afghan interpreters and support personnel who so bravely assisted alongside our Canadian Armed Forces in Afghanistan.”
• Ms. Findlay has tweeted her support for Afghan interpreters and for action to bring them to Canada.

Veterans:

• On the House floor during Statements by Members in the last Parliament, Ms. Findlay vocalized her support for the Equitas Society, which supports injured Canadian soldiers suffering lifelong disabilities.

Christine Normandin

BQ – Saint-Jean (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Science: Received a Bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences after completing a melanoma research internship in India
• Law: Appointed as a lawyer in 2015 and began as a general lawyer in solo practice before joining a firm specializing in international family and child abduction
• Community: Sat on the Board of Directors for Marcellin-Champagnat High School

Connection to DND/CAF

• Garrison Saint-Jean, Royal Military College Saint-Jean and the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School are located in her riding.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Critic: National Defence (2021); Citizenship and Immigration (2019 – 2021)
• Deputy House Leader: Bloc Québécois (2019 – 2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2020 – 2021); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (2020 – 2021)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (2020 – 2021); National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2020)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Sexual Misconduct:

• In December 2021, Mme. Normandin tweeted that MND’s apology to victims in the CAF is a “step in the right direction, but to be more meaningful, it must be more than an apology. They must be kept promises.”
• She has also expressed concern about trust in military leadership in the House of Commons. During House Debate on the opposition motion to censure the MND in 2021, Mme. Normandin expressed that the former MND’s perceived lack of actions tarnished the CAF.

Personnel:

• During House Debate on the Opposition Motion for the Special Committee on Afghanistan, Mme. Normandin stated that “there is a need to restore the Canadian Armed Forces' image” and noted that this is “a significant issue that she will carry forward and address over the next year.”
• During the same House Debate, Mme. Normandin also expressed concern that CAF internal recruitment could be affected if Parliament sends the message that the local interpreters CAF members worked with in Afghanistan could be “left behind.”

China:

• During a CACN meeting in 2021, Mme. Normandin referenced a “very robust report” released in the United Kingdom, which commented on the resilience of national infrastructures and observed that Canada has been “lax” on the Huawei issue. She asked the Chair of NSICOP whether NSICOP is concerned about this.
• Mme. Normandin asked the Chair of NSICOP if NSICOP has a role to play in a T-12 group (an alliance of technodemocracies) to fight the illiberal use of technology by China.
• In various parliamentary forums, she has raised the Uighur genocide in China and referred to China as an “international bully.”

Veterans Disability Benefits:

• On her website, Mme. Normandin expressed a desire to reduce processing times for veterans’ disability benefits.

Other interests:

Immigration:

• On Twitter in August 2021, Mme Normandin expressed displeasure with visa requirements for Afghans who wanted to leave the country.
• Strong advocate for family reunification. Mme. Normandin routinely posts about reunification issues on Twitter, and has expressed a desire to reduce processing times for family reunification files on her website.

Lindsay Mathyssen

NDP – London-Fanshawe (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional Background

• Political: Worked on 21 Federal, Provincial, and Municipal elections, including 8 campaigns in her current riding; daughter of former London NDP MP Irene Mathyssen
• Union Member: Council of Canadians and Member of the Ontario Health Coalition

Connection to DND/CAF

• General Dynamics Manufacturing Facility located in London (Armoured Combat Support Vehicles manufacturing plant); Member of London Victory Legion

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Critic: National Defence (29 Oct 2021 – Present)
• Deputy House Leader (07 Oct 2021 – Present)
• Deputy Critic: Women and Gender Equality (29 Oct 2021 – Present)
• Critic: Women and Gender Equality (2019 – 2021); Diversity and Inclusion and Youth (2019 – 2021)
• Deputy Whip (2019 – 15 Aug 2021)
• Deputy Critic: Export Promotion and International Trade (2019 – 15 Aug 2021); Small Business (2019 – 15 Aug 2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2020 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on the Status of Women (2020 – 15 Aug 2021)
• Member: Subcommittee on Private Members’ Business of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2020 – 2021)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Sexual Misconduct in the CAF:

• Focuses on meaningful implementation of external reports and seeks concrete progress that supports survivors. For example:
  • Following the announcement by MND to move all military sexual misconduct cases to the civilian system, Ms. Mathyssen emphasized to the media that the Department must communicate when and how this will be implemented, citing the Department’s delayed response to the sexual misconduct crisis.
  • During Question Period in 2021, Ms. Mathyssen alleged that “since 2015, the Liberals have been sitting on the Deschamps report, failing to implement any of its recommendations.” On another occasion, she also asked MND when the Government will commit to implementing all of the recommendations in the Deschamps report.
• Articulated four key criticisms during the House Committee on the Status of Women’s 2021 study on addressing sexual misconduct in the CAF:
  1. Lack of independence of Military Police and perceived failure to place victims and survivors at the centre of investigations
  2. Erosion of trust between CAF members and senior leadership
  3. Need for effective and independent oversight of misconduct investigations and outcomes
  4. Barriers for participation of women in the CAF
• Filed a supplementary report to the House Committee on Status of Women report on sexual misconduct in the CAF which focused on:
  • Implementing key recommendations of the Deschamps report and 2018 OAG report
  • Addressing the perception that the trust in senior leadership is broken and must be restored
  • Creating an independent centre for accountability
  • Facilitating access to affordable and flexible childcare for CAF members
  • Developing victim-centric and trauma-informed training for all members, including senior leadership
  • Creating a “special program” to increase diversity, gender representation and inclusion in the CAF as recommended by the OAG in 2016

Recruitment and Retention:

• During House Debate in 2021 on a motion promoting GBA+ implementation to meet CAF recruitment and retention targets, Ms. Mathyssen stated that “without proper supports in place and without directly addressing the significant cultural issues within the military, many people will not want to enlist and retention will continue to be an issue.” She pressed for a GBA+ approach to be used in retention and recruitment within DND/CAF.

Procurement and Supply Chains:

• In a November 2021 article, Ms. Mathyssen discussed the need to promote a “made in Canada strategy” to respond to Defence industry supply chain challenges exacerbated by the pandemic and to increase domestic manufacturing capacity to meet our operational obligations.

Emmanuella Lambropoulos

LPC – Saint-Laurent (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2017 (by-election)
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Education: Former secondary school teacher, teaching History, Geography, Ethics, and Religious Culture; worked as a resource aid for students with learning disabilities and autism
• Community: Long record of volunteer involvement supporting children’s sports and art activities

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former member of the House Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs during studies on topics such as mental health and suicide prevention and barriers to transition.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – 2019)
• Chair: National Liberal Women’s Caucus (2021 – present)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021 – present); House Standing Committee on the Status of Women (2021 – present; 2017 – 2019); House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2020 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2020 – 2021).
• Former member: House Standing Committee on Official Languages (2020); House Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2017 – 2018)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Culture Change:

• At Status of Women Committee meetings in 2019 on the treatment of women within DND/CAF, she asked CAF witnesses about “what happens on the ground” to change the culture in the CAF, and inquired whether there are any programs to help the CAF become a “better place for women.”
• Asked about the role of gender advisers and whether witnesses had noticed “change at all levels” taking place due to the application of GBA+.

Veterans:

• During her time on the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ms. Lambropoulos repeatedly demonstrated concern about the supports offered to veterans, as well as inequalities with respect to Indigenous Rangers and veterans.
• During House Debate on Bill C-20, an Act respecting further COVID-19 measures, Ms. Lambropoulos stated that Part 2 of the Bill (amending the Department of Veterans Affairs Act, the Veterans Well-being Act and the Children’s Special Allowances Act to administer a program that would assist those with disabilities) was “very important” to her.

Appreciation for CAF Members:

• In May 2020, Ms. Lambropoulos visited CAF members and thanked them “for all their important work” at a long-term care facility in her riding.

Other interests

Gender-Based Violence:

• At a Status of Women Committee meeting in 2021, Ms. Lambropoulos moved a motion for the committee to undertake a study examining the root causes of intimate partner violence, the current support and protection infrastructures for women and girls subject to unsafe environments, and additional ways in which the Government of Canada can contribute to the prevention of intimate partner violence and the protection of women and children.
• At a Status of Women Committee meeting in 2019, Ms. Lambropoulos asked the Minister for Women and Gender Equality what the Government is doing to “get men and boys involved in the solution to get rid of gender-based violence.” She stated that gender-based violence is a “huge problem” across the country, particularly in Indigenous communities.

Mental Health:

• During a Status of Women Committee meeting in 2021, Ms. Lambropoulos moved a motion for the committee to undertake a study examining the factors contributing to mental health issues experienced by young women and girls.
• As recently as January 2022 and on multiple occaisons, Ms. Lambropoulos raised the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Canadians’ mental health during Statements by Members.

Jennifer O'Connell

LPC – Pickering—Uxbridge (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

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

Professional Background

• Municipal Politics: Former three-term city and regional councillor in Pickering; former Deputy Mayor of Pickering
• Law: Former clerk at a law firm specializing in labour relations

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities (2021)
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Health (2021), Minister of Finance (Youth Economic Opportunity) (2018 – 2019)
• Member: National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2020 – 2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2015 – 2020)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former member:House Standing Committee on Health (2021); Subcommittee on International Human Rights of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2021); House Standing Committee on Finance (2016 – 2018)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Veterans:

• Expressed support for Legions in a Member’s Statement in February 2021, noting that “Legions provide supportive spaces and valuable assistance for veterans and their families.”
• Inquired about veterans’ pensions and service dog allowances during NFFN committee meetings.

Other interests

Women and Gender Equality:

• Strong advocate for women’s equality. Ms. O’Connell rose in the House during Members’ Statements in October 2020 to “remind the House of how much work is still needed for women’s equality and that our rights still remain under threat.”
• Supported Bill C-3 (an Act to amend the Judges Act and the Criminal Code), which ensures provincial superior court justices receive specialized sexual assault training. During House debate on this matter, in October 2020, Ms. O’Connell noted that protecting victims from sexual assault “should be a basic principle in our country.”
• Ms. O’Connell is an active pro-choice advocate on social media and in the House of Commons. For example, during debate on the Sex-Selective Abortion Act in April 2021, Ms. O’Connell stated that “a woman’s right to choose is fundamental.”

Sven Spengemann

LPC – Mississauga—Lakeshore (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

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

Professional Background

• International Relations: Former senior UN official and legal adviser in Baghdad with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (2005 – 2012)
• Government: Senior Policy Analyst at the Privy Council Office (2003 – 2005)
• Law: Holds two LL.M degrees, as well as a Doctorate of Juridical Science from Harvard Law School (1999 – 2006)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Member of NDDN during studies on: sexual misconduct, mental health, diversity, peacekeeping, Canada’s involvement in NATO, continental defence, force protection

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2021); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Chair: House Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (2020 – 2021)
• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2016 – 2021); Liaison Committee (2020 – 2021)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2016 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Sexual Misconduct and Culture Change:

• Mr. Spengemann played a central role during NDDN’s 2021 study on this issue. He asked a variety of questions to MND and witnesses throughout the study. For example, he asked about the actions taken to empower survivors, the duty to report, and efforts to advance culture change at all levels and ranks. Mr. Spengemann also sought information on the measures that are in place to assess the progress and effectiveness of the actions MND and the CAF have taken to date to enact culture change.
• Mr. Spengemann pressed for a Government Response on the Committee’s report as a “question of accountability.”

Access to Mental Health in the CAF:

• During the 2020 NDDN study on mental health, he assessed that access is “demand-based” and asked how members could be encouraged to access services. Mr. Spengemann also asked witnesses whether there are other barriers to care aside from stigma, and whether there is movement toward recognition of presumption of injury.
• During this study, he revealed his own personal experience with suicide and mental health issues as a result of his UN deployment.

Military Justice:

• Mr. Spengemann has stressed that the military justice system must evolve to meet the expectations of Canadians and the needs of the CAF. During NDDN committee meetings, he highlighted Justice Arbour’s work and noted that “getting good recommendations is not meaningful if the government does not commit to accepting them and carrying forward the implementation process.” He also voted in support of Bill C-77.

White Supremacy, Racism, Discrimination in the CAF:

• In 2020, introduced a motion for NDDN to undertake a study on the prevalence of white supremacy, racism, and discrimination within the CAF, and its impact on recruitment, morale, and operational effectiveness. This motion did not result in a study.

Peacekeeping Operations:

• Mr. Spengemann is an advocate for diversity in peace operations and has asked witnesses at NDDN why it is important to have diversity and a greater number of women in peace missions and at the leadership level.

Darren Fisher

LPC – Dartmouth—Cole Harbour (NS)

Election to the House of Commons

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

Professional Background

• Politics: Former Deputy Mayor of Halifax; former member of Halifax Regional Council
• Business: Former small business owner
• Community: Active community volunteer

Connection to DND/CAF

• CFB Shearwater in riding
• Member of NDDN during studies on: diversity within the CAF, peacekeeping, Bill C-77, Ukraine, Canada’s involvement in NATO, and continental defence

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Seniors (2021)
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Official Languages) (2021); Minister of Health (2019 – 2021)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2021); Canada- China Legislative Association (2015 – 2016)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2021); House Standing Committee on Health (2020 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2016 – 2019); House Standing Committee on National Defence (2016 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Military Justice:

• During House debate related to the second reading of Bill C-77 in September 2018, Mr. Fisher expressed support for the military justice system, calling it a “distinct and necessary part” of Canada’s larger justice system, and noted that the Declaration of Victims’ Rights is “good news.”

Procurement:

• During a speech at the 2017-18 Main Estimates (as part of Committee of the Whole), Mr. Fisher emphasized the challenges related to the procurement process and the need to “continually improve our procurement systems.”
• During the same Committee of the Whole, Mr. Fisher Requested an update from the MND and Parliamentary Secretary on the status of the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) procurement project, the RCN’s acquisition of ships under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, and aircraft fleets.

NATO:

• During 2017 NDDN committee meetings, Mr. Fisher expressed interest in Canada’s NATO spending, gender perspectives on future NATO missions, readiness of NATO members, and the sufficiency of NATO’s cyber pledge.

Peacekeeping:

• During 2018 NDDN committee meetings, Mr. Fisher asked whether UN peacekeeping forces are adapting quickly enough to the evolving nature of conflict and sought more information on Canada’s peacekeeping effects on political engagement and diplomatic efforts, and whether Canadian peacekeepers are being properly utilized.

Environment:

• During House debate on the environment in June 2019, Mr. Fisher rose to explain DND/CAF actions to address the “growing threats posed by a changing climate.”

Strong, Secure, Engaged:

• Was a member of NDDN when “Strong, Secure, Engaged” (SSE) was unveiled in 2017. Mr. Fisher expressed that he is “very proud” of the policy during House Debate on the National Defence Act in September 2018.
• During an NDDN meeting on SSE in June 2017, Mr. Fisher asked the MND what the policy will do to support military members’ mental health.
• Mr. Fisher stated that SSE “goes a long way to supporting sustainability goals and mitigating emerging security risks posed by climate change” during a House debate on the environment in June 2019.
• Mr. Fisher asked the DM for an update on the “innovation for defence excellence and security” program at an NDDN meeting in November 2018.

Cheryl Gallant

CPC – Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2000
• Re-elected: 2004, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2015, 2019

Professional Background

• Business: Former Chief Administrative Director in a family-owned small business/professional practice; former group insurance executive with a major Canadian life insurance company
• Economy: Chairperson of the City of Pembroke Downtown Development Commission; member of Pembroke’s Economic Advisory Committee

Connection to DND/CAF

• Located in riding: CFB Petawawa, Arnprior Aerospace, and Chalk River Laboratories (a nuclear research facility)

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Vice-President: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 – 2021); also a member from 2004 – 2021
• Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2007 – 2008; 2010; 2013 – 2021)
• Critic: Veterans Affairs (Associate) (2019 – 2021), Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (2019 – 2021)
• Former Critic: Small Business; Industry; Science, Research and Development; Canadian Heritage
• Former Deputy House Leader: Official Opposition (2001 – 2002)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2006 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2002 – 2004; 2011 – 2015); House Standing Committee on National Defence and Veterans Affairs (2001 – 2004)
• Former Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2016 – 2017)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2011); House Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2010 – 2011); House Standing Joint Committee on the Scrutiny of Regulations (2010); House Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2009); House Standing Committee on the Status of Women (2006); House Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage (2001); House Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2001 – 2002)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Access to Mental Health in the CAF

• Ms. Gallant posed short, direct questions to witnesses during the NDDN study on mental health in 2020, focusing on: weapon removal as a result of mental health issues; CAF communication up a member’s Chain of Command that they may be at risk of suicide; and supports provided to soldiers suffering from PTSD, including after release.
• In 2020 Ms. Gallant tabled an OPQ related to the number of suicides and attempted suicides in the CAF (both active and former members), as well as the collection and maintenance of data for suicides and attempted suicides.

Procurement:

• In 2021, Ms. Gallant tabled an OPQ inquiring about: the full budget for the Canadian Surface Combatants; the total expected cost or value of the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policies on each vessel built under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS); and the full costing of the first Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship.
• During an NDDN meeting in March 2018, Ms. Gallant asked the DM to table reports or emails related to audits of Irving and measures taken to ensure competition and lowest prices to taxpayers under the NSS.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for CAF members

• In 2020, Ms. Gallant tabled an OPQ, and expressed concern on several occasions at NDDN committee meetings, about access to PPE for CAF members, and the quality and type of PPE provided, particularly in relation to Op LASER and the CAF’s support in long-term care facilities.

Russia and China

• At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) in June 2021, Ms. Gallant asked the Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada how Russia used artificial intelligence in hybrid warfare.
• At a NDDN meeting in November 2020, Ms. Gallant asked a RMC professor whether Russia has demonstrated new and conventional hybrid capabilities against Canada, and what kinds of cyber-attacks Canada is more vulnerable to from nations such as Russia and China.

Operation IMPACT and training Iraqi forces

• On several occasions in 2021, rose during QP to ask MND if he was aware of the alleged video evidence of war crimes committed by Iraqi soldiers trained by CAF as part of Op IMPACT, why CAF soldiers were allegedly instructed to ignore evidence of war crimes and if an investigation was underway. She stated that MND put Canada’s honour at risk by claiming he didn’t know about the incident, and pressed the PM to fire MND.

Services and Transition Benefits for Veterans

• During a February 2020 ACVA committee meeting, Ms. Gallant encouraged veterans and CAF members to reach out to her and her team so that they can work together to ensure a “seamless transition” into their civilian lives.
• Ms. Gallant joined a veterans’ protest on Parliament Hill in 2018, stating on her website that Canadian veterans are being “left in the cold” and that “the Prime Minister broke his promise to make it easier for veterans to access services.”

Todd Doherty

CPC – Cariboo—Prince George (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

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

Professional Background

• Business: Former private sector aviation executive that promoted regional, provincial and national passenger, cargo and tourism opportunities internationally; owned a retail chain in the Okanagan
• Finance: Former director of revenue generation for the 2015 Canada Winter Games
• Community: Worked with at-risk youth, teaching crisis intervention and suicide prevention in cross-cultural communities

Connection to DND/CAF

• Member of ACVA during studies on veteran’s mental health care programs, supports and services to veterans’ caregivers and families, and commemorations.

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Deputy Defence Critic: National Defence (2021)
• Former Critic: Transport (2019 – 2020); Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard (2018 – 2019)
• Former Assistant Critic: Indian Affairs and Northern Development (Indigenous and Northern Affairs) (2015 – 2016)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2015 – 2021); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2015 – 2021)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former Vice Chair: House Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2021); House Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2016 – 2019)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021); House Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (2020 – 2021); House Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2020); House Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2016 – 2019); Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2016 – 2017)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Military Justice and Bill C-77:

• During House debate on the second reading of Bill C-77 in September 2018, Mr. Doherty expressed support for “giving those who are enforcing our laws every tool possible for them to complete their mission” and underscored the importance of instituting mental health components within the legislation. He also highlighted that “Conservatives always believe the rights of victims should come before those of the criminal.”
• Re-tweeted a CBC article in July 2021 that accused MND’s office of trying to “exert control” over ongoing investigations into sexual misconduct in the military and “ignoring” recommendations for change.

Mental Health:

• Strongly advocated for the removal of section 98(c) from the National Defence Act during House Debate related to the third reading of Bill C-77 in February 2019.
• Introduced a private member’s bill (Bill C-211 – Federal Framework on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act) in 2018, which aims to develop a comprehensive federal framework to address the challenges of recognizing the symptoms and providing timely diagnosis and treatment of PTSD. MND and the Minister of Veterans Affairs are implicated in this Bill, which passed and is now law.

Veterans:

• Self-described “passionate champion” for veterans.
• During a May 2021 ACVA meeting, asked the ADM of Strategic Policy and Commemoration at Veterans Affairs how the 40,000 veterans of the war in Afghanistan should be commemorated.

Other interests:

• Advocate for the Canadian Cancer Society and ALS

Glen Motz

CPC – Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner (AB)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2016 (by-election)
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional Background

• Law Enforcement: Served 35 years with the Medicine Hat Police Service and retired as an Inspector in 2015
• Community: Has volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Block Parents, Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society, Medicine Hat Housing Society, and Medicine Hat and District Food Bank, among others

Connection to DND/CAF

• Located in riding: CFB Suffield

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Former Member: National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2020)
• Former Critic: Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (Associate) (2019 – 2020)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – 2019)

Committee Membership

• Member: House Standing Committee on National Defence (2021)
• Former Member: House Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (2017 – 2021); Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2017)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

CFB Suffield:

• Underscored the importance of CFB Suffield in an interview with Medicine Hat News and on Twitter. He expressed support for the British Army’s decision not to close the British Army Training Unit Suffield (BATUS), which is a British army unit located in the training area of CFB Suffield. Mr. Motz stated BATUS is “an important part of our community that supports many jobs and businesses” in a November 2021 Tweet.
• Noted that CFB Suffield is “a unique environment that allows large-scale exercises” and recommended that it should be “more fully utilized” in an August 2020 interview with Medicine Hat News.

Peacekeeping:

• During Question Period in April 2018, Mr. Motz pressed the Liberal government to “admit that the Mali mission is not a peacekeeping mission” and requested that the deployment be brought to the House for debate and a vote.
• To commemorate National Peacekeeping Day (August 9, 2021), he tweeted a thank you to Canadians currently serving in peacekeeping roles abroad.

Cyber Defence:

• Expressed interest in cybersecurity during SECU committee meetings in 2019. For example, Mr. Motz expressed interest in learning more about cyber defence actions that could deter actors like China from “rerouting the Internet.” He further asked witnesses about what other countries are doing when it comes to cybersecurity breaches, and how financial security issues can be improved in Canada. He also inquired about the difference between cybersecurity in the defence sector and cybersecurity in the IT sector, as well as about “gaps in talent with respect to cybersecurity.”
• In addition, he advocated for a “full investment in increasing our cybersecurity” at a Main Estimates appearance at SECU in May 2018.

Other interests:

Public Safety:

• On Twitter, Mr. Motz has expressed criticism of the firearm ban and the cost of the firearms buyback program. For example, in a June 2021 Tweet, he alleged that these programs will “do nothing to address gun smuggling, increasing violent crime, and gang violence” and are detrimental to “law-abiding firearm owners”.