If I could, Mr. Chair, I would say this in response: The context of engagement around the monument, right from the outset and announcement, was one that consulted with veterans in order to get their perspective. First, there was a visioning exercise in 2014 about what the monument should represent. There was engagement around the location of the monument, with the views of veterans winning the day and the choice being to place it at LeBreton Flats. There was an engagement around what themes should underlie the monument. All of this was fed to those coming forward to apply and put forward submissions.
Right from the outset, the engagement with veterans—and understanding the importance of the perspective of veterans, especially those who served in Afghanistan, both in uniform and in civil society—was paramount.