We will call to order meeting number 94, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), on the study of the needs and issues specific to indigenous veterans.
I welcome everybody back for the first meeting. I hope everybody had an enjoyable summer.
Today, I'd like to welcome three new members to the committee. We have Shaun Chen, MP for Scarborough North, and Karen Ludwig, MP for New Brunswick Southwest. Welcome to the committee. We also have a new parliamentary secretary, Stéphane Lauzon.
Last spring, the committee began its first study on the needs and issues specific to indigenous veterans. We've held six meetings and heard 26 witnesses. We did a trip in May to Nova Scotia, Ontario, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Another one, as we are all aware, is planned to Yellowknife in the week of October 20, in relation to the study.
Today, we are pleased to welcome the Métis National Council. They were supposed to appear by video conference but have decided to appear in person. Welcome.
From the Manitoba Métis Federation, I'd like to introduce Mr. David Chartrand, minister of veteran affairs, and Al Benoit, chief of staff.
We'll start with 10 minutes of your testimony and then open it up to questions.
Thank you.