Local MP Michael Barrett has taken on a new role focused on improving support for Canadian veterans.
Barrett, who represents Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands–Rideau Lakes, has been elected vice-chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs.
The committee examines the work of Veterans Affairs Canada and studies issues affecting veterans. Its current work includes recommendations on rehabilitation and care, as well as hearing from veterans about how military skills can transfer to civilian jobs.
Barrett has also been meeting with the veterans affairs minister and parliamentary secretary to discuss concerns and priorities for the committee.
The former Canadian Armed Forces member is also the Conservative shadow minister for Veterans Affairs and is consulting veterans’ groups on his private member’s Service Dogs for Veterans Act.
The proposed bill would recognize service dogs as a federally supported veterans benefit, create a national training standard and improve access for veterans who need one.
Barrett said his new role is an honour and comes with an obligation to serve those who served Canada.
