Mr. Chair, I'll answer the question.
From my research into the events that led to the establishment of this position, I understand that the position of a special adviser was actually administratively convenient; it was something that could be expedited to get somebody into the chair in a timely fashion. However, I do view my job as providing advice to the minister, and I don't feel that I'm compromising my independence by doing that. I would provide advice to any member of the government, based on what I observe, based on the perspective of the veterans.
I believe the two are actually complementary, if that answers the member's question.