Thank you, Mr. Chair.
When the new Veterans Charter was introduced, it replaced a pension plan. The pension plan was made up of benefits and programs that would last for life.
When they introduced the new Veterans Charter—the income loss benefit—they introduced, for the first time in veterans benefits, a program that ended at 65 years old. Those people who are totally and permanently incapacitated right now are only receiving the earnings loss benefit, which ends at 65.
However, there is a permanent incapacity allowance that is available. In fact, we've questioned the logic there. Why are people who are totally and permanently incapacitated not receiving a permanent incapacity allowance? That's where the big secret is right now.
People who are not capable of generating any income at all should have benefits for life. Therefore, the PIA, the permanent incapacity allowance, should be widened so that it's easier for people to access. It should also be brought up to a level that is consistent with life after service, which is in the $70,000 area.