Very briefly, Mr. Chair, I want to remind my colleagues that the chair of the board is in the most knowledgeable position to advise the Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada of the board's operational needs respecting the appointment of both permanent and temporary members.
Additionally, the veterans ombudsman's role is defined in order in council and includes reviewing systemic issues related to the board. Recommending board members does not fall within his mandate. Further, it would place the ombudsman in a conflict if he were to advise on appointments to the board that he is mandated to review.