Veterans Affairs committee  Absolutely, but I think the CSST could also benefit from that comment.

Veterans Affairs committee  Absolutely. That consistency is missing. Right now, there is a lack of understanding around what needs to happen with workplace reintegration. This may be the time for the Department of Veterans Affairs to show leadership and create pilot programs, which could be assessed, designed to help veterans transition to and learn about civilian life, and return to work.

Veterans Affairs committee  You are absolutely right. I think that supportive care and attention and individualized services to aid with reintegration are essential. We identified the problem of transitioning from active duty to life as a veteran. I think improvements are underway in that regard, and they are being well received.

Veterans Affairs committee  That is a very interesting issue. Scientific studies done in the past 20 years, and I had a hand in many of them, show that return to work is very dependent, during the rehabilitation phase, on an early connection with the workplace. I am not just talking about veterans but in general.

Veterans Affairs committee  Another way to improve the economic situation of veterans is to help them return to a normal civilian life that includes employment. Not only would it help them financially, but it would also improve their self-esteem, their confidence in life and so forth. That would be rehabilitation done the right way.

Veterans Affairs committee  I think we need to understand that there are two very distinct problems. One is compensation for a loss, such as the loss of a leg. There is a dollar figure attached to that, and that is normal. There is the civilian versus military debate. A price can be put on it, albeit very artificial.

Veterans Affairs committee  Yes. I will speak in French, as it is easier for me, even though I am bilingual. I'm working at the University of Toronto now, but I am from Quebec. As has been pointed out, the medico-legal model does not work well for rehabilitation in general, and it is even worse for work rehabilitation.