Thank you.
However, applying these classifications to different deployments should not indicate that we value the efforts of our members and veterans more or less, depending on where and when they serve. Our appreciation must always be for everyone who wears the uniform, and it must be unyielding.
Additionally, reclassifying those who served in the Persian Gulf on special duty service to mirror the definitions for service during the first and second world wars or in the Korean War would not necessarily change the benefits they are eligible to receive. This is because these veterans are already eligible for some of the highest levels of benefits through Veterans Affairs Canada for injuries arising from their service.
When it comes to offering support for our armed forces, National Defence is responsible for currently serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces. This is a responsibility that I want to assure you we take very seriously. National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces offer a comprehensive framework of benefits and services, including those related to mental health, illness and injury, and transitioning out of service.
For example, the CAF runs 31 primary care clinics, offering specialized in-house mental health services, social workers, mental health nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, addictions counsellors and mental health chaplains who are on site to provide the care and support our members need. When a service member is ill or injured, the Canadian Armed Forces transition group provides support for recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration within the forces wherever that is possible. We have also developed a five-step process to assist military members to transition to civilian life, whether they are medically or non-medically released.
The Government of Canada wishes to express—and I personally want to express—its sincere gratitude to all Canadian Forces members who served in the Persian Gulf War. Their efforts, and the dangers they faced while deployed, cannot go unnoticed or be allowed to be forgotten. It's vital that we recognize their dedication, service and sacrifice. That's why we will continue to work with other departments, like Veterans Affairs Canada, to recognize the enormous sacrifices made by those in uniform.
I am personally looking forward to the recommendations of this committee. I very much value the work of the committee in hearing from witnesses and coming forward with recommendations. I want to assure every member of this committee that your recommendations will be given every due consideration.
Thank you very much.