Thanks, Minister.
The stories I hear from veterans who call or write to my office every single day are heartbreaking. I wanted to share with you a few of those that I've heard recently.
Retired sergeant Graham Kerr served four combat tours in Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq, and he has fought for years with VAC just to get coverage and treatment for his disabilities.
Retired lieutenant-commander Dr. Greg Passey says that his claims for support took 29 months to adjudicate while he battled cancer.
Retired master corporal Eric Lavergne was a victim of military sexual trauma and has struggled with PTSD and mental health for years. He told us last week that he has been asking for help, and that VAC continues to deny him the help that he's asking for.
Kent Gulliford says that both he and his wife are having incredible difficulties processing claims under the new insurance provider, and there seems to be no recourse available to even complain about the lack of service they've received.
Retired captain Robert Dimmer had 22 years of service, and he's been fighting with VAC for almost two years to receive help for hearing loss. He says he believes that VAC is just denying him until he dies, rather than helping him. Those are his words.
Minister, I want to ask if they sound to you like veterans who are satisfied with the services they receive. Do they sound like veterans who are physically and mentally well to you?