Committee Membership and Profiles

44th Parliament, 1st Session

Profiles

Margaret Dawn Anderson

PSG – Northwest Territories

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: December 12, 2018

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor's in Child & Youth Care and an MA in Indigenous Governance at the University of Victoria
• Northwest Territories Public Service: 20 years of experience as a public servant, mainly in various roles with the Government of Northwest Territories, including Department of Justice
• Community Activism: Advocate for domestic violence prevention measures

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Non-affiliated (2018 – 2019); Independent Senators Group (2019 – 2021); Progressive Senate Group (2021 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2019 – Present); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2020 – Present)
• Former member: Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2021 – Present); Standing Committee on Aboriginal Peoples (2018 – 2021); Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce (2020 – 2021); Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2019 – 2020); Committee on Transport and Communications (2018 – 2019) Special Senate Committee on the Arctic (2018 – 2019)

Committee dynamics:

• The majority of Ms. Anderson’s interventions are related to northern communities and First Nations people.
• Despite the fact that Ms. Anderson has been a member of the National Security and Defence Committee (SECD) since 2019, she has participated in only a few meeting and has made very few interventions at the Committee.

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Arctic Sovereignty:

• Having grown up in a small Arctic community, Ms. Anderson is very familiar with the region and the challenges created by climate change. During a meeting of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic in 2019, Ms. Anderson focused on Russia and China's activities in the Arctic and asked what Canada should do to ensure the region's security.
• During a SECD meeting in March 2022, Ms. Anderson mentioned the importance of collaboration with owners, people, and citizens in securing the continental shelf and its role in Arctic defence and security. She also asked CAF witnesses if Canada has enough capital, infrastructure and appropriate allocation of resources to assure its sovereignty in the Arctic.

First Nation:

• During a meeting of the Committee on Aboriginal Peoples in 2021, Ms. Anderson said that Bill C-15 (An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) “does not go far enough” for First Nations because of the “lack of faith and trust” in Canada to honor historic treaty agreements and commitments with and for First Nations.
• During a Senate debate in 2020, Anderson advocated for Indigenous rights and stated "Indigenous lives matter, Black lives matter, and that systemic racism is alive and well in Canada”.

Culture Change:

• During a meeting of the Banking Committee in 2020, Ms. Anderson mentioned that “diversity and inclusion are critical to the success of a central bank serving Canadians”. She also asked a number of questions regarding measures taken to increase diversity within the organization.

Environment:

• During a meeting of the Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources Committee in 2021, Ms. Anderson asked what else is needed from the Government of Canada, beyond legislation, to support an approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions for families and communities, especially in the North.

Peter Boehm

ISG – Ontario

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: November 3, 2018

Professional Background

• Studies: Ph.D in History from the University of Edinburgh, a Master's degree in International Affairs from the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University, and a Bachelor's degree in English and History from Wilfrid Laurier University
• Public Servant: Various positions at Global Affairs from 1983 – 2018, including: Deputy Minister for the G7 Summit, Deputy Minister of International Development, Senior Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canadian Ambassador to Germany, and Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the Organization of the American States.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate group: Independent Senators Group (November 3, 2018 – Present)
• Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Chair: Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (23 September 2020 – Present)
• Member: Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence (2 December 2018 – 11 September 2019; 23 September 2020 – Present); Standing Senate Committee on National Finance (3 December 2018 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2018 – 2020); Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples (2018 – 2019); Standing Senate Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2020); Committee of Selection (2019 – 2020)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Financing of CAF Missions:

• During meetings of the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance, Senator Boehm regularly asks questions to understand the funding of CAF missions abroad.

Peacekeeping:

• During Senate debate, Question Period, and Committees, Senator Boehm frequently highlights the importance of United Nations peacekeeping missions. From his perspective, the UN's role is to maintain international peace and security, by working to prevent conflicts, and by working proactively to lay the foundations for peace.

Culture Change:

• During a Senate debate on racism in 2020, Senator Boehm declared that "individual racism, systemic racism and discriminatory measures are not problems unique to other countries, they exist here in Canada, whether we want to admit it or not.“

Mental Health:

• During Mental Health Week in 2019, Senator Boehm noted that mental illness can affect anyone and that “it is vital to fight the stigma by speaking out about mental health.”

Indigenous Relations:

• During a Senate debate on Bill C-15 (An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) in 2021, Senator Boehm expressed his support for Indigenous Peoples, and the importance of ensuring their meaningful inclusion in Canadian society.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• At a SECU meeting in March 2022, Senator Boehm asked if Canada can learn from Sweden and Finland, in terms of preparedness, deterrence and also engagement in the Arctic against Russia.

Pierre Hughes Boisvenu

CPC – Québec (La Salle)

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: 29 January 2010

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in public administration
• Quebec Public Service: Regional Director for the Department of Recreation, Game and Fisheries and the Department of the Environment (2006– 2010)
• Community Activism: Co-founder of Families of Missing Person’s Families’ Association; Le Nid centre for abused women; and of a school camp for underprivileged youth

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Conservative Party of Canada (2010 – 2015; 2016 – Present); Non-affiliated (2015 – 2016)
• Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2019 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (05 December 2019 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Finance (2010 – 2019); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2010 – 2019) Standing Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (2010 – 2011); Standing Committee on Transport and Communications (2010 – 2013); Standing Committee on Rules, Procedures and the Rights of Parliament (2010 – 2011); Standing Committee on Official Languages (2010 – 2011); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2010 – 2011); Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2011 – 2013)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Military Justice:

• During the CDS’s appearance at the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence in 2021, he questioned Gen Eyre’s “zero tolerance policy for sexual misconduct” and how many CAF members have been removed from the CAF over sexual assault convictions, whether through the military justice system or criminal courts. He also asked how the CAF intends to recruit more women when it faces issues of sexual misconduct in the ranks.
• During the same National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2021, he questioned why National Defence had not implemented Bill C-77 two years after it was passed, tying the department’s perceived inaction on Bill C-77 and implementing the Deschamps and Fish recommendations to low retention rates for women in the CAF.
• During Senate Question Period in 2021, Sen Boisvenu criticized then Minister Sajjan by stating that the Deschamps and Fish reports show “the Defence Minister’s lack of leadership and incompetence.” He also criticized the military justice system for protecting aggressors more than victims.

China-Canada Relations:

• During a Senate debate on the Canada-China relationship in 2020, Sen Boisvenu called the Prime Minister “naïve‘” for supporting a joint Canada-China joint military exercise, which was opposed by the former CDS. He criticized the Government’s attempts to build “a relationship of trust” with China, noting it was “imprudent” and risking Canada’s relationship with the U.S.

Multilateral Cooperation: NATO, NORAD

• During interventions in Senate debates and committees, Sen Boisvenu regularly highlighted the importance of NORAD and NATO, as well as CAF collaboration with Allies.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2022, Sen Boisvenu highlighted the Russian investment in the Arctic, in term of bases, vessels and submarines. After his statement, he asked CAF witnesses how many years it would take for Canada to catch up with the Russian militarisation of the Arctic.

CAF Preparedness:

• At a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Boisvenu asked if there was a conflict between Canada and Russia in the near future, are the CAF ready to handle the conflict.
• During the same meeting, he also highlighted the need to recruit more personnel in the CAF to operate the new jets, ships and submarines procured by Canada.

Other Interests:

Human Rights:

• In favour of medical assistance in dying; has called for action to address violence against women.

Jean-Guy Dagenais

CSG - Quebec (Victoria)

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: January 17, 2012

Professional Background

• Law Enforcement: Former officer with Sûreté du Québec (1972 – 2011) where he served as investigator, education relations officer, and communications officer among other positions
• Association des policieres et policiers provinciaux du Quebec: President (2004)
• Political and partisan position: Ran as Conservative candidate in 2011 election (unsuccessful); left the CPS Senators group in 2019 over abortion and same-sex marriage

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former reservist

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Conservative Party of Canada (2012 – 2019); Canadian Senators Group (2019 – Present)
• Deputy Opposition Whip in the Senate (2017 – 2020)

Committee Membership

• Vice-Chair and Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (3 December 2015 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee on National Finance (17 January 2012– Present); Standing Committee on Official Languages (3 December 2015 – Present)
• Former Vice-Chair: Standing Senate Committee on Official Languages (2020 – 2021), Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs (2019 – 2020)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce (2015 – 2021), Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2012 – 2019), Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2012 – 2021), Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2012 – 2021)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Procurement:

• At meetings of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence in 2018, he raised questions about procurement issues, including when Canada will “be able to procure the F-35 rather than repairing old planes with spare parts.” He also advocated for more work for Davie Shipyard in the NSS.
• In November 2020, Sen Dagenais suggested that the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence study military expenditures, including F-35s, repair and construction of ships, army equipment, and coast guard ships.
• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2022, Sen Dagenais asked what are the procurements that Canada needs to compete against Russia in the Arctic.

UN Peacekeeping:

• During the Standing Committee on National Finance (NFFN) Committee’s study of Supplementary Estimates (B) in 2021, he pressed the CDS/DM on why Canada was not contributing troops towards UN peacekeeping operations, and whether this was due to limited resources.
• During a Senate debate on the peacekeeping mission in Mali, Senator Dagenais was critical of the government, noting that “Trudeau will send our soldiers to be killed in a fake peace mission.”

Recruitment and Retention:

• During committee meetings, Senator Dagenais frequently raises concerns about the CAF’s ability to recruit and retain members, particularly at the local level with Reserve units; has also asked about the budget for Reserve training and equipment.
• During the Finance Committee’s study of Supplementary Estimates (B) in 2021, he asked the VCDS what the working conditions for military personnel were expected to be like in the future and whether they would receive salary increases.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2022, Sen Dagenais mentioned that he had seen on the news that Canada had participated in an exercise in the Arctic with its allies and that Canada only sent 10 CAF members, to his great surprise.
• At the same meeting, he also asked how many times in the last few months Canada has had to repel Russian air intrusions over Canadian Arctic territory.

Sexual Misconduct in the CAF:

• In 2021, Sen Dagenais criticized former Minister Sajjan’s response to the sexual misconduct crisis during Senate Question Period.

Donna Dasko

ISG – Ontario

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: June 6, 2018

Professional Background

• Studies: She holds a Ph.D. and MA from the University of Toronto and a BA from the University of Manitoba in Public Policy
• Research: Senior Vice-President of Environics Research Group (1989 – 2011)
• Voluntary work: Equal Voice, Co-Founder and National Chair (2009 – 2012); Fellow, Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy; St Stephen’s Community House, President; United Way, Director, Greater Toronto Area; Canadian Unity Council, Governor; Alzheimer Society, Chair, National CEO Roundtable; GreenPac, Advisor; Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund, Member, Board of Directors; Campaign for an Equal Senate for Canada, Co-Founder.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate group: Independent Senators Group (June 6, 2018 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2020 – Present); National Security and Defence (2018 – Present); Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2018 – Present); Transport and Communications (2018–Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Finance (2020 – 2021); Special Senate Committee on the Arctic (2018 – 2019); Special Senate Committee on the Charitable Sector (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2018 – 2019); Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2018 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Ukraine and Operation UNIFIER

• During Senate Question Period in 2021, Sen Dasko reiterated the importance of ensuring the CAF is prepared to assist countries that may be facing challenges to their democratic processes, like Ukraine.

Arctic Sovereignty

• During a meeting of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic 2019, Senator Dasko asked “are Arctic issues a proxy for bigger and different battles with China and Russia?”
• At a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Dasko asked if NORAD and NATO are ready to respond to a Russian threat in the Arctic.

Climate Change

• During a Senate debate on climate change in 2022, Senator Dasko highlighted her support for the motion to recognize climate change as an urgent crisis that requires an immediate and ambitious response.

Culture Change

• During a debate in the Senate on the appropriateness of creating a special committee on systemic racism in 2020, Senator Dasko supported the creation of a special committee to study anti-black and anti-Indigenous systemic racism in Canada.

Marty Deacon

ISG – Ontario (Waterloo Region)

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: February 28, 2018

Professional Background

• Commonwealth Games Canada: Executive Board Member & Chef de Mission (2012 – Present)
• Canadian Olympic Committee: Director, Executive Board (2009 – Present)
• Independent Consultant: Education consultation at the elementary and secondary school level (2016 – 2018)
• Waterloo Region District School Board: Superintendent & Executive Officer (2010 – 2016); Principal (2000 – 2010)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate group: Independent Senators Group (February 28, 2018 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2020 – Present); Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2020 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2018 – 2021); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee  on Aboriginal Peoples (2018 – 2019; 2020 – 2021); Special Senate Committee on the Charitable Sector (2018 – 2019); Special Senate Committee on the Arctic (2018 – 2019); Special Senate Committee on Senate Modernization (2018 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Afghanistan:

• During Senate Question Period in 2022, Sen Deacon highlighted the important work of the CAF in evacuating Afghans out of Afghanistan.
• In 2021, she was contacted by several athletes, coaches, sports leaders and leaders in the LGBTQ2+ community to help them get out of Afghanistan.

Mental Health:

• During a debate in the Senate on Bill C-7 (An Act to amend the Criminal Code on medical assistance in dying) in 2021, Sen Deacon emphasized the importance of offering assistance to people suffering from mental illness, in order to reduce the stigmatization and support suicide prevention efforts.

Culture Change:

• During a debate in the Senate on the Government’s role in combating racism in 2020, Sen Deacon asked what specific work has been done across the government to support black Canadians and Indigenous peoples.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Deacon asked whether Canada should prioritise a more united, supra-national front in the Arctic with its allies, even if that means there may be a sacrifice of some national sovereignty for the sake of a stronger, united defence posture, to compete against the increasing China-Russia cooperation in the region.

Other Interests

Passion:

• Sen Deacon is passionate about the physical and mental well-being of all Canadians and she is an advocate for the future of women and young girls and worldwide.

Tony Dean

ISG – Ontario

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: November 10, 2016

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor degree in sociology and social anthropology from University of Hull, and a Master degree in sociology from McMaster University
• Ontario Public Service: Secretary of the Cabinet, Head of the Public Service and Clerk of the Executive Council (2002 – 2008)
• University involvement: Professor at the School of Public Policy and Governance at the University of Toronto; senior research fellow at Harvard Kennedy School in 2010
• Writer: Contributor to the Toronto Star and the UK-based Guardian newspaper; published a book in 2015 on "Building Better Public Services"

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate group: Independent Senators Group (November 10, 2016 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Chair: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2021 – Present)
• Member: Committee of Selection (2021– Present); Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2016 – 2019; 2021 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2016 – 2021); Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2016 – 2021); Standing Committee on Transport and Communications (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2016 – 2019); Subcommittee on Human Resources of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2021); Subcommittee on Diversity of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2021)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Russia:

• At a meeting of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2019, Senator Dean asked several questions about Russia's intentions in Eastern Europe, such as “where Russian forces might be poking and probing and continuing insurgent activity?” and “if the annexation of the Crimea was the only objective of Russia in Ukraine?”

Cyber Security:

• Senator Dean has championed Bill C-59 (An Act respecting national security matters), and is supportive establishing new mechanisms that would allow national security organizations to be nimble and adapt to new technologies as they emerge.

Other Interests:

Environment and Energy transition:

• During a Senate debate on Canada's energy transition, Senator Dean alleged that Canada should take advantage of a once-in-a-generation opportunity to review its environmental assessment system and make adjustments to reflect the changing climate and the ever-evolving energy sector.

Firearms control:

• Senator Dean is a strong advocate for the control and regulation of firearms.

Mobina S. B. Jaffer

ISG – British Columbia

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: June 13, 2001

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor’s degree in law; Executive Development program at Simon Fraser University; received an Honorary Doctorate from Open Learning University
• Law: Practiced law at the firm Dohm, Jaffer and Jeraj (1977 – 2012)
• Diplomatic work: Canada’s Special Envoy for Peace in Sudan (2002 – 2006)

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Liberal Party of Canada Group (2001 – 2018); Non-affiliated Group (2018 – 2019); Independent Senators Group (2019 – Present)
• Critic: Justice, Human Rights (2012 – 2014); Citizenship and Immigration, Multiculturalism (2012 – 2014)

Committee Membership

• Chair: Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2020 – Present)
• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2013 – 2015; 2020 – Present); Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2011 – Present)
• Former Chair: Subcommittee on Diversity of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2021); Subcommittee on Diversity of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2015 – 2019); Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2011 – 2015)
• Former Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2015 – 2019); Subcommittee on the Senate Estimates of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2009 – 2011)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Official Languages (2020 – 2021); Special Senate Committee on the Arctic (2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2015 – 2019); Special Senate Committee on Anti- Terrorism (2004 – 2008; 2010 – 2013); Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2001 – 2002; 2007 – 2008; 2013 – 2015)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Veterans

• During a Senate debate on Veterans in 2018, Senator Jaffer criticized the lack of service offered to Veterans by the CAF to help them make the transition to civilian life.

Mental Health

• During a Senate debate on Bill C-211, (An Act respecting a federal framework on post-traumatic stress disorder) in 2018, Senator Jaffer mentioned her support for CAF members affected by PTSD, and stated that more resources should be offered to support those in this situation.

Culture Change

• During a committee meeting of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence in 2018, Senator Jaffer stated that "I want people to understand that racism is very serious in the military as well, and it is part of every issue.“ She also criticized the fact that “70 members of the CAF have been convicted of misdeeds, and that they are not convicted and that they are still members of the CAF.”
• On numerous occasions in the Senate, Senator Jaffer has praised CAF's “Bystander” program and training.

Peace Support Operations

• Sen Jaffer is a strong advocate for human rights and peace, and is often invited to speak at international conferences on security issues and United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Arctic Sovereignty

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Jaffer mentioned that Canada has to get all kinds of military equipment into the Arctic area and asked about the measures taken to protect the people on the ground responsible for bringing the material to the Arctic.

Yonah Martin

CPC – British Columbia

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: January 2, 2009

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor’s degree of Education and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from University of British Columbia
• Educator: Teacher in Abbotsford, Burnaby and Coquitlam school districts (1987 – 2008)
• C3 Korean Canadian Society: Co-founder of a non-profit organization that  aims to bridge communities (2003)
• Korea Veterans Association of Canada: Grand Patron

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate (2015 – Present)
• Vice-Chair: Canada-China Inter-Parliamentary Association (2020 – Present)
• Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate (2013 – 2015)
• Deputy Government Whip in the Senate (2011 – 2013)
• Chair: Canada Korea Inter-Parliamentary Group (2017 – 2019)
• Co-Chair: Canada Korea Inter-Parliamentary Group (2011 – 2013); Canada-Bulgaria Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (2017 – 2019)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence (2009 –2011; 2015 – Present); Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights (29 January 2009 – Present); Standing Senate Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2010 –2011; 2015 – 2020; 2021 – Present)
• Former Member: Standing Senate Committee on National Finance (2009 – 2021); Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2009 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Indo-Pacific

• During a meeting of the Committee on National Security and Defence in 2021, Sen Martin asked the CDS about his concerns regarding the “expanding Chinese capabilities in the Pacific,” and if Canada and its allies had concerns about “not keeping pace” with China.
• In Senate Question Period in 2021, Sen Martin questioned why the Government had not made a decision on Huawei’s participation in Canada’s 5G network, noting that Canada remained the last Five Eyes partner not to ban or restrict the company.

Arctic sovereignty

• Sen Martin expressed concerns about Russian activities in the Arctic and asked the CDS to comment on the interest of other nations in the Arctic during his appearance before the National Security and Defence Committee in 2021.

Procurement

• During Senate Question Period in 2017, Sen Martin asked about job losses at Seaspan and a perceived capability gap due to delays in the Joint Supply Ship (JSS) program.

Veterans

• In 2013, Sen Martin sponsored Bill S-213 (Korean War Veterans Day Act), which makes July 27 a day of remembrance for Veterans of the Korean War.
• During Senate Question Period in 2021, Sen Martin raised veterans’ experiences with the long wait times for mental health care and asked the government when new programs proposed in Budget 2021 would be operational.

Terry M. Mercer

PSG – (Nova Scotia – North End Halifax)

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: November 7, 2003

Professional Background

• Studies: Bachelor of Arts and a PhD in Civil Law from St. Mary's University
• Civil-society: Executive Director of the Metro Toronto Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association (1993 – 1995); Vice President and Director, Financial Development of the YMCA of Greater Toronto (1987 –1993); Former Chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for Philanthropy in Canada

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former member of the Cadets;
• Family: history of CAF members; his son was naval lieutenant in the Cadets

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Progressive Senate Group (2019 – Present); Liberal Party of Canada (2003 – 2019)
• Interim Deputy Leader: Progressive Senate Group (2019 – 2021)
• Former Chair of Senate Liberal Caucus (2016 – 2019)
• Deputy Leader of Senate Liberals ( 2016 – 2019)
• National Director Liberal Party of Canada (1997 – 2004)
• Director of Fundraising of the Liberal Party of Canada (1995 – 1997)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2004 – 2007; 2010 – 2011; 2015 – Present); Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2003 – Present); Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2009 – Present); Committee of Selection (2011 – 2013; 2015 – Present)
• Former Chair: Special Senate Committee on the Charitable Sector (2015 – 2019); Committee of Selection (2019 – 2021)
• Former Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2011–2019); Committee of Selection (2015 – 2019)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Transport and Communications (2003 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2003 – 2007; 2011 – 2013); Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2003 – 2013; 2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2006 – 2007); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2006 – 2007; 2010 – 2011; 2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2010 – 2013; 2015 – 2019); Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2011 – 2019)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Personnel:

• During a Senate debate on mental health and suicide prevention in 2014, Sen Mercer alleged that National Defence ignored suggested strategies for easing the backlog of investigations into military suicides.
• During a Senate debate on Cadet program cuts in 2014, Sen Mercer criticized the Conservative government's decision to cut $2 million in funding to the Cadet program.

Procurement and Equipment:

• During a debate of the Senate on close combat vehicle procurement in 2013, Sen Mercer mentioned several times that he was in favor of modernizing CAF’s equipment, noting that “we lost a lot of lives in Afghanistan because of old equipment.“
• At a meeting of the National Security and Defence Committee in March 2022, Sen Mercer highlighted that the need to have Arctic patrol vessels has now become critical to protect Arctic against Russian and Chinese interest and asked if Canada can speed up the procurement process of these vessels.

Arctic Sovereignty:

• During a meeting of the National Security and Defence Committee in March 2022, Sen Mercer mentioned that Canada needs not just military infrastructure, but also infrastructure that supports the military like a port in the Arctic, and he asked for National Defence's stance on this issue.

David Richards

CSG – New Brunswick

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: November 30, 2017

Professional Background

• Award-winning writer: Governor General’s Literary Award for Fiction (1988) and Non-Fiction (1998); co-winner of 2000 Giller Prize; Matt Cohen Prize (2011) for distinguished lifetime contribution to Canadian literature
• Member of the Order of Canada (2009) for his contributions to the Canadian literary scene as essayist, screenwriter and writer of fiction and non-fiction
• Writer-in-residence: At various colleges across Canada, including the University of New Brunswick

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate groups: Independent Senators Group (2017 – 2019); Canadian Senators Group (2019 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence (30 August 2017 – Present)
• Member: Standing Senate Committee on National Finance (5 December 2019 – Present); Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (22 November 2021 – Present)
• Former Deputy Chair: Standing Senate Committee on National Finance (23 September 2020 – 15 August 2021)
• Former Member: Standing Senate Committee on Legal an Constitutional Affairs (2019 – 2021); Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (2019 – 2021); Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2017 – 2021).

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Sexual Misconduct

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2018, Senator Richards asked if there is data on the percentage of sexual assaults that take place on base and while deployed, and how these numbers contrast with other military data on the percentage of sexual assaults.
• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in 2021, Senator Richards asked questions about the reporting process, including “If a woman has a sexual assault complaint, does that go through the chain of command?”

Mental Health

• At a meeting of the National Security and Defence Committee in 2021, Senator Richards asked questions about mental health services for CAF members and Veterans. He sought details on how many requests for psychological or medical support National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada receive annually, and how quickly services are provided.

Arctic Sovereignty

• During a Senate debate on Canadian Arctic sovereignty in 2020, Senator Richards expressed concern about the emergence of activities by countries such as Russia and China in the Arctic and asked how Canada is attempting to secure its sovereignty in the region.
• At a meeting of the National Security and Defence Committee in March 2022, Senator Richards mentioned that 1,500 Rangers is not enough to assure Canada's sovereignty in the Arctic and asked how and when more personnel and infrastructure will be deployed to the region.

Investment in the CAF

• At a meeting of the National Security and Defence Committee in March 2022, Senator Richards asked witnesses how much investment is needed to speed up the development of the CAF and respond to new security issues in the Arctic.

Hassan Yussuff

ISG – Ontario

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: June 22, 2021

Professional Background

• Studies: Received honorary Doctorate of Laws from Brock University and Ryerson University
• Canadian Labour Congress: Executive Vice-President (1999 – 2002); Secretary- Treasurer (2002 – 2014); President (2014 – 2021)
• Environment: Member of the Net-Zero Advisory Body (2021 – Present); Government of Canada’s NAFTA Council and its Sustainable Development Advisory Council (2017 – 2019)
• Activist: President of the Trade Union Confederation of the Americas; co-chair of the Task Force on Just Transition for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities; member of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Disability Management and Research

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil

Political and Parliamentary Roles

• Senate group: Independent Senators Group (June 22, 2021 – Present)

Committee Membership

• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2021 – Present); Standing Committee on National Finance (2021– Present); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2021-Present); Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce (2021 – Present)

Points of interest to DND/CAF

Personnel

• In his former role as President of the Canadian Labor Congress, Senator Yussuff was called upon several times to speak at various Senate committees. During his appearances, he mentioned several times the importance of occupational safety and health services.
• During a Senate debate on Bill C-3 (An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Canada Labor Code) in 2021, Senator Yussuff defended an initiative to recognize the fundamental right of workers to be able to freely, without threats of job security and financial security, take time off from work to look after their health and well-being.

Arctic Sovereignty

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Yussuff highlighted the new challenges created by the opening of new shipping corridors in the North and asked if the military analysis of how Canada protects that corridor and defends the North have changed.

Impact of Climate Change on CAF Operations

• During a National Security and Defence Committee meeting in March 2022, Sen Yussuff mentioned that the Arctic is melting faster than predicted ten years ago and he questioned defence witnesses on the measures taken by the CAF to adapt to these changes.
• During the same meeting, he also asked about the implications of a faster melting ice sheet in the Arctic on the CAF operations in the region.

Other Interests

Environment and Energy transition

• As a members of the Net-Zero Advisory Body since 2021 and given his past experience on environmental issues, Senator Yussuff is particularly interested in environmental protection, sustainable development and energy transition.