The department, as we've spoken about, is going through a transformation and there will be about 550 positions that will be impacted by that. That's because we're able to reduce a paper-based system and build in streamlining. So there will be some positions that will be impacted. In addition to that, you do know that there were impacts on the department because of Budget 2012.
This is about improving service to veterans by using new technology and new ways of doing business. It's not about reducing service to veterans. No programs or services are being cut and veterans will continue to receive the benefits and services they are entitled to.
In terms of the frontline staff—that is, case management, our cornerstone—there are 250 case managers located across the country, including those with our DND partnerships at IPSCs, and those will be maintained. As for our client service agents, while there will be some reductions in that area, they provide a support function to the case managers and the majority of the client service agents will remain in place providing direct client service.
The job of the department, the commitment of the department, is to maintain frontline services at appropriate points of service across the country; but benefits, programs, and services to veterans will not be impacted.