moved for leave to introduce Bill C-499, an act respecting funeral honours to veterans.
Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to introduce my private member's bill, an act respecting funeral honours to veterans.
The purpose of the bill is to recognize the great sacrifice of the men and women who served in Canada's armed forces. The legislation would provide for a military guard of honour to provide the dignity and respect that veterans deserve. Currently, various regiments provide some benefits to their comrades but on an ad hoc basis. The bill would provide recognition for service by a grateful nation.
An advisory council to the Minister of Veterans Affairs recently recommended improved funeral and burial benefits for veterans, so it gives me pleasure to recognize its work and complement its recommendations with this bill.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)