In my opening remarks I think I forgot to mention that John has a Ph.D. in personnel applied research.
I'm now going to switch to reading directly from the last page.
Conclusions: When the foregoing perceptions held by veterans are compared with the Veterans Bill of Rights, it is clear that the first article, the foundation statement, is not being respected or practised by the VRAB. It is difficult to believe that VRAB can properly serve our veterans when our veterans have little, if any, faith in the current VRAB structure, modus operandi, attitudes, or ability to meet its legislated responsibilities.
In terms of recommendations, we simply ask that this committee, with its mandate, proven competency, and genuine concern for the welfare of Canada’s veterans, vigorously pursue the necessary steps required to bring about essential changes to the VRAB that will enable it to meet its obligation to serve our veterans fairly, with dignity, and with the courtesy that they so rightly deserve, and in accord with the spirit of Canada's existing veterans' legislation.
In this context I would like to recognize Ron Griffis of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping, who will later be presenting a very in-depth paper about this, and say that we are very supportive and that we applaud what he has done.
In conclusion, the CPVA is very grateful for this opportunity to present the views of veterans on VRAB to this committee. The CPVA also commends and thanks the committee for all its caring, dedicated, responsible, and extremely important and valuable work on behalf of veterans.
Thank you.