Senator Plett: I asked you this question last June. Let me assure you that the week after we come back from the break, I will ask you this question again. I hope I will have a direct answer then. I’m now giving you notice.

Leader, Veterans Affairs cancelled the reimbursement of child care expenses for Mr. Bruyea’s young son after his criticism of Minister O’Regan was published in The Hill Times newspaper. The Veterans Ombudsman expressed her concern in a report two years ago that the department had not been fair to this veteran. The report detailed how Mr. Bruyea didn’t appear to trust Veterans Affairs and felt this action toward him was retaliatory.

Your government agreed to mediation. I’m told it is still not in place well over a year later. How does such a long delay build trust between a veteran and the department? How can that promise of mediation be viewed as sincere, Senator Gold?