Madam Speaker, I would like to address a few words under group two to Motion No. 3. I hope that is appropriate at this time.
A number of witnesses presenting their reports on Bill C-67 to the Standing Committee on Defence and Veterans Affairs complained about the length of time members could be appointed to the veterans review and appeal board. They felt that ten-year terms with eligibility for an additional ten years is excessive, and I agree.
Appointments with terms like this allow little opportunity for new blood to come into the system. They also allow the
government to stuff the board full of political appointees who will remain long after the government has gone.
Motion No. 3, which is our amendment to clause 5 of Bill C-67, will ensure that there is plenty of turnover, allowing a frequent infusion of new blood to the board. In addition, no government will be allowed to dominate the board long after it has been voted out of power. It calls for ten permanent members to be appointed for three years, ten more for six years, and the remaining nine for nine years. Permanent members will be eligible for reappointment, but no member will be able to sit on the board for more than twelve years. Provision exists for a permanent member to trade their term with another permanent member. Length of term is decided by lot.
I encourage all members to consider seriously this amendment. It would do much to defuse public criticism of political appointees.