Thank you, Mr. Chair.
First, I would like to thank the auditor general for the excellent work he and his team do. I would also like to thank all the witnesses here today. I am aware of all the preparation that is needed when you appear before the committee. Thanks to them once again.
Mr. Forster, in your remarks you noted that women currently account for 15.2% of your strength and that your objective is 25%.
In a 2015 report, Madam Justice (retired) Deschamps condemned the armed forces' culture for being hostile to women and fertile ground for sexual harassment. In response to this report, the chief of defence staff at the time, Mr. Vance, established Operation Honour to stamp out this culture. He clearly stated that his objective was zero tolerance.
Recent progress reports have been positive in this regard. It has been noted, however, that not as much progress has been made as was hoped. Women still say that they are victims, and it is difficult for them to get justice.
My question is twofold.
Has the situation that was criticized had a significant impact on the recruitment of women into the armed forces? What strategy have the armed forces adopted to continue the work begun under Operation Honour?