Mr. Speaker, Bill C-61 effectively reduces outstanding merchant navy concerns to one. After 55 years, Bill C-61 finally gives merchant navy veterans recognition as war veterans, prisoner of war benefits and recognition for ceremonial days, but it ignores the issue of compensation completely.
The merchant navy was truly comparable to the other three services yet veterans suffer from government imposed poverty. They are not seeking great wealth, only the respect and benefits given their armed forces brethren.
This final issue has existed for over 50 years. Merchant navy veterans have little time left to enjoy restitution for inequalities. They want our government to act now, not later. Our merchant navy veterans' final concerns should not be a new millennium project.