Lost his last election, in 2004, with 37% of the vote.
Veterans Affairs April 11th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I will be participating in a series of events commemorating the armistice of the Korean war. I have the greatest support for all Korean veterans. In fact, the Government of Canada has issued its own Korean medal.
The commitment of the government to the Korean war veterans is unwaivering and will be there forever.
Veterans Affairs April 10th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, the proposed amendments, working in collaboration with the Minister of National Defence and the Solicitor General, will provide finally round the clock comprehensive benefits to members of the Canadian Forces and the RCMP who are deployed to special duty areas and operations of elevated risk.
This will give greater peace of mind to the members and their families. Indeed, Canada is committed to attending to the well-being of Canadians who go in harm's way.
Pension Act April 10th, 2003
moved for leave to introduce Bill C-31, an act to amend the Pension Act and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superannuation Act.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)
Veterans Affairs April 8th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, first let me congratulate the member for Algoma--Manitoulin for introducing the bill in the House. I thank all parliamentarians in both Houses for giving the bill speedy passage into law.
The battle of Vimy Ridge was a pivotal point in our nation's history, earning young Canada at the time, a place on the international stage. By giving an enduring tribute to our heroic Canadians who fought in the service of their country, and who died 86 years ago in the distant past, we continue to give the message to members of the present forces that we will continue to remember them as they continue to serve their country.
Veterans Affairs March 17th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to announce in Winnipeg last Friday that the Government of Canada has decided to provide an additional $1.775 million toward the Juno Beach Centre project, bringing Canada's contribution to a total of a little over $3 million.
The funding will help in the completion of the project, in the official opening event and as well, in the creation of an interpretive program.
The Juno Beach Centre project will recognize Canada's overall contribution and achievements during the second world war.
Veterans Affairs February 25th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, recently I wrote to the mayor of Cagnicourt informing him that Canada will be represented at the event by the director of Canada Remembers' European operations, Mr. Al Puxley.
Indeed, the liberation of Cagnicourt is an important event in Canadian military history. Seven Victoria Crosses were awarded, including one to Cyrus Peck, a former member of Parliament. Indeed Canada is committed to keeping alive the memory of Canada's veterans.
Veterans Affairs February 17th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, the response was overwhelming. Close to 2,000 applications were received out of the estimated 1,800. They are being processed with diligence and speed. As soon as they are completed offers of payment with a request for a waiver will be sent to eligible veterans. Upon receipt of the completed acceptance, the cheques will be mailed to them as promptly as possible.
Veterans Affairs February 14th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, the valentines for vets program is one more special way of remembering our veterans. It speaks to the respect and admiration we have for them, for their gifts of freedom, equality and justice.
I thank the thousands of school children and other Canadians across the country for sending their valentines, and also the staff at veterans affairs for distributing them to veterans nationwide.
The response this year is some 3,500 received. One veteran said “It gave me a great feeling”. Indeed, this program means so much to our veterans.
Veterans Affairs February 10th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, we have always listened and applied the laws that exist today. Every eligible applicant, based on disability under the Pension Act when related to military service, will be given the benefits due to them.
Veterans Affairs February 4th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, the member knows full well that the case is before the courts of Canada and it would be inappropriate for us to comment. It would be against parliamentary tradition.