Sometimes given the responses I hear that some veterans get, it would be good to know this is being checked to make sure that the people actually understand how to relate to veterans.
On that note, by the way, I do like your point that “a Veteran is a Veteran is a Veteran”. I wonder, when we say traditional veterans and modern-day veterans, whether we sometimes inadvertently create a class structure. I'm careful, though, to say that I know it's not intentional. Anyway, I like that terminology of yours much more.
I seldom would ever speak for the whole committee, but I think everybody was impressed by the Gerontological Advisory Council report, when we had the opportunity to question the council about it. I just have to say that the more of that report you actually incorporate into your services, the more pleased we'll be than ever.
I also want to say that all of us get lots of calls. I have two military bases in my riding and I certainly like to get the calls, but the calls not only have our staff busy, they're also heart-wrenching in most cases. I just wanted to say to you very directly, but empathetically as well, because I understand the amount of work you have to do, that if your work right now—and I'm certain it is—is going to mean less administration and that we're going to have a program that's sustainable and one that's going to meet the needs out there and be timely, then I'm all for it, but just make sure you don't waste even a day ensuring we can deliver that and encapsulate as many of the needs of our veterans, of every degree, we can.
I was quite concerned when we heard from the advisory council that some provinces are actually now refusing basic care to veterans and are asking Veterans Affairs.... That was what they said at the time when we questioned them. I don't know if you looked at the blues on that.
Is that the case?