With a few focused improvements, the new Veterans Charter could become a system of benefits and programs that has a tangible and positive impact on all veterans and their families, a system that veterans can be proud of rather than the object of unabated discontent.
In closing, I have a simple vision of what the new Veterans Charter should be: a well-integrated system of programs that provides the transitioning veteran with optimism for the future and for the new opportunities available to him or her. In other words, veterans should be able to look forward to the future with enthusiasm and with a sense of purpose rather than feeling overwhelmed with the present, and longing for a past that is no longer possible. To create this optimism for all veterans, substantive improvements need to be made to the new Veterans Charter, and in particular to financial support programs. Government has the opportunity to make a real difference for veterans and families by resolving long-standing problems with the new Veterans Charter.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.