Members of Parliament say they have all-party support for a bill that would establish a national framework for recognizing wartime service for veterans of modern conflicts.
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Members of Parliament say they have all-party support for legislation aimed at recognizing wartime service for veterans of modern conflicts such as Afghanistan.
The federal government has not formally designated any service as “wartime service” since the Korean War, despite deployments to armed combat zones.
Independent Sen. Hassan Yussuff introduced Bill S-246 in April, and the legislation is now entering its first stage of debate in the House of Commons.
The bill would create a national framework for granting recognition of wartime service and would require the government to explain publicly why it does or does not grant such recognition.
Veterans groups pushed for the bill, saying the recognition is long overdue, while noting it would not affect pensions or benefits.
Defence Minister David McGuinty and Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight said this week they would consult with veterans and military experts about reviewing the classifications of past operations.
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