National Defence committee  I rely on how the commander of the army balances his budget across the board. We have seen a tremendous growth of reservists going on full-time duty over the past three to four years while our operational tempo has really increased. Many of our reservists have gone from part-time to full-time duty.

National Defence committee  That's an issue that is near and dear to all of our hearts, but I'll ask Mr. Fonberg to respond.

National Defence committee  Mr. Chair, those men and women who are coming home are in uniform. They're my soldiers, sailors, airmen, and airwomen, and we have a responsibility on your behalf to take care of them. We have learned a tremendous amount over the past three to four years. We're better today than we were a few years ago.

National Defence committee  These staffing goals for the expeditionary squadron are very important to the Canadian Forces, especially since their mission is first and foremost one of leadership. That being said, the Canadian Forces are currently experiencing a staffing squeeze, given that we have an aircraft squadron in Afghanistan.

National Defence committee  I believe that is part of the Expeditionary Squadron Project. Perhaps Mr. Ross could provide you with more detailed information.

National Defence committee  I would like to reiterate the importance of this squadron. I would be happy to take the time to provide you with a written answer.

National Defence committee  I would add that it's actually four times that we have stopped transfers. I am personally responsible to do the right thing for the men and women in uniform. In 2006, I was the vice-chief of defence, working for General Hillier. I saw material, and I acted if indeed we had to act.

National Defence committee  The reserves have never had such an important role as they do today. Again, under the Canada First defence strategy, the reserves will grow to 30,000. The fact is that thousands of Canadians are signing up each and every year in order to have a part-time career with adventure in the reserves.

National Defence committee  Mr. Chair, I guess I would say that I don't think we should ever underestimate the amount of intelligence gathering that others do on Canada and the knowledge that we have. Each and every day, our men and women leave their forward operating bases and go into combat, and we are doing our very best, using the very best technologies, the very best intelligence, but also the instincts of our men and women so that they can achieve the Government of Canada's missions and goals in Afghanistan, do those tasks successfully, and come home safety.

National Defence committee  It would be in Gagetown, New Brunswick. Some will be in Wainwright.