Mr. Speaker, there have been 50 years of stonewalling, 50 years of neglect and 50 years of denial for Canada's merchant navy veterans. That is our government's performance, counting 50 years and more.
The issues are very clear. Merchant navy veterans are not seeking great wealth, simply the respect and benefits given their armed forces brethren: to be recognized as war veterans, to receive prisoner of war benefits, to be compensated for years of inequality and to receive recognition on ceremonial days.
The Minister of Veterans Affairs must agree that there are four issues that cry out for resolve; not one, not two, not three, but four.
It is unconscionable that these concerns continue to exist after 50 years. History will judge our days in this House.
It would be sad if the minister enters history as a great continuer of injustice rather than the minister—