We have established the Disability Compensation Information Advisory Cell to provide information and assistance to members of the Forces who are released, or about to be released for reasons of disability. And, we have started to work much more closely with Veterans Affairs Canada and the Royal Canadian Legion to ensure continuity of care for our retired members, veterans and their families. Still, I am concerned that there may be potential gaps in the provision of services. Despite our measures so far, I am personally not convinced that we are doing enough to look after the families of our members, particularly during and after operational deployments. We have taken steps to improve the quality of life of all members of the Forces.
Housing is another important issue.
I hope the Committee will address issues such as job security, the potential loss of seniority at their civilian place of employment or loss of employment due to injury. By addressing these issues, your Committee will help us ensure that members of the Canadian Forces are appropriately supported and compensated for their service. They deserve no less. As part of our examination of this issue, we have asked several prominent academics to provide us with their views on this issue, but given the unique nature of the military profession and the very challenging circumstances under which the Forces work, we welcome your input in defining and confirming the Government's responsibilities to the Canadian Forces. This is just a brief overview of the many issues which will become more familiar to you over the next few months.