Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, Minister, for being here. I always appreciate your feedback in response to our questions. Congratulations on releasing the departmental performance report.
Operational stress injuries, mental health issues, and post-traumatic stress disorder have emerged as a scourge for members of our Canadian Armed Forces and, very importantly, their families. I appreciate the fact that the DPR speaks to that, especially as these issues seem to have slipped between the cushions of the couch for years. We haven't focused on the fact that these issues really do affect families as well. Our men and women who have served have sacrificed so much in defence of this country that I feel it's important that we do everything to provide them with the appropriate care.
Mr. Garrison touched on this, but in my riding this a huge, huge issue. I've hosted two mental health town halls in Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, with plans to do a series more. They're very well attended, and the responses and suggestions we get are very thoughtful and helpful, albeit there is a lot of concern. Mr. Garrison talked about the fact that people are now talking about this more. I think it's imperative for us to encourage that, and I'm glad to hear General Vance say that they encourage that in the military.
Can you update us on specifically what the new defence policy will do to provide care and support for our military members as far as mental health goes?