Certainly. Thank you.
Service and after service are not separate phases; they are part of one continuum. The two roles that I hold—and I think this is perhaps what you're referencing—in the capacity as Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence connect the decisions that we make while someone is serving into how it can shape their transition, well-being and opportunities once they have re-entered civilian life.
As I said, when a Canadian chooses to serve, there is an implicit commitment in return. Women and men of the CAF serve with the expectation that their country will take care of them, not only during their service, but long after they take off their uniform. Our responsibility doesn't end at release.
My role is to ensure a smooth, seamless transition from service to civilian life. This means strengthening supports for veterans, aligning the programs of National Defence with Veterans Affairs Canada, and ultimately addressing any gaps in that transition. That can include employment, education, health and family supports.