Comittee Information

On this page

Dan Albas

CPC – Central Okanagan - Similkameen – Nicola (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2011
• Re-elected: 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree from Okanagan University College.
• Business Owner: Worked as a martial arts instructor and in the late-1990s he opened his own martial arts studio, Kick City Martial Arts.
• Municipal Politics: Penticton City Councillor (2008 – 2011).

Connection to DND/CAF

• Mr. Albas communicated the Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations’ consensus to hear from Defence officials, and subsequently consider the tabling of a disallowance report in the House, in June 2023.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 – 2019); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2017 – 2018); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2017) 
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: President of the Treasury Board (2013 – 2015)

Committee membership

• Joint Chair: Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (February 2023 – Present)
• Member: Liaison Committee (Feb 2023 – Present), Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2022 – Present)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Finance (March 2022 – October 2022); Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (Dec 2021 – Feb 2022; October 2020 – August 2021); Special Committee on Canada-China Relations (February 2020 – August 2020); Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (September 2018 – September 2019)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Finance (February 2022 – October 2022; October 2016 – September 2018); Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (December 2021 – February 2022; October 2020 – August 2021); Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (February 2020 – August 2020); Special Committee on Canada-China Relations (January 2020 – August 2020); Special Committee on COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020); Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (September 2018 - September 2019); Special Committee on Pay Equity (February 2016 – June 2016); Standing Committee on Public Accounts (January 2014 – August 2015; October 2013 – January 2014); Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2013 – August 2015; September 2012 – January 2013; June 2011- September 2012); Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates (January 2013 – September 2013); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (September 2012 – September 2013); Standing Committee on Status of Women (January 2012 – September 2012); Legislative Committee on Bill C-11 (March 2012); Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (June 2011 – January 2012)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Defence Spending and Procurement:
  • During a debate on the Budget Implementation Act in June 2022, Mr. Albas spoke about how the Canadian Armed Forces are “underprepared in so many different ways” and how the Minister of National Defence may want to consider looking at “filling the gaps that exist right now” rather than working on a Defence Policy Update.
  • In March 2022, Mr. Albas wrote an op-ed for Kelowna Now, in which he criticized the government’s decision to “politicize” and “delay” the procurement of new F-35s.
• Arctic:
  • During a debate on the Economic and Fiscal Update Implementation Act in March 2022, Mr. Albas noted that “Russia has been investing heavily in nuclear ships so that it can push its sovereignty claims further into the Arctic.” He also said that he did not feel Canada was making the necessary investments to push our own sovereignty claims in this space.
• Ukraine:
  • During a debate on Russia’s Attack on Ukraine in February 2022, Mr. Albas noted that “Canada is united for the people of Ukraine,” and mentioned the need to work with the U.S. to prevent Russian war efforts from being financed by European and American reliance on Russian gas.

Other interests

• Affordability:
  • Mr. Albas has spoken regularly about inflation, including most recently in House debates in June 2023, and during meetings of the Finance Committee in 2023.
  • During a debate on Housing in March 2023, Mr. Albas noted that Kelowna now has “Canada’s top-five rents’ and criticized the government for failing the house the homeless on Kelowna’s streets.
  • In 2021, Mr. Albas introduced a Private Member’s Bill that would exempt payments made by an employer to an employee, for the purposes of student loan repayment, from being included in the employee’s income. This bill sought to support students who were struggling with student debt.

Yuen Pau Woo

ISG – British Columbia

Appointment to the Senate

• Appointed: November 2016

Professional background

• Education: University of Cambridge and Wheaton College.
• Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC): President and CEO (2005-2014).
• Community Activism: Action Chinese Canadians Together Leadership Summit 2021.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Facilitator of the Independent Senators Group: 2017 – 2021

Committee membership

• Joint Chair: Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2021 – present)
• Deputy Chair: Standing Committee on Rules, Procedures and the Rights of Parliament (2022 - present)
• Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2022 - present)
• Former Member: Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs (2017)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Support for Ukraine:
  • During an April 2022 meeting of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International trade, Senator Woo stated, “It sounds to me like our government is content for the war to play out for as long as it needs to.” He asked what Canada is doing to end the war.
  • On February 16, 2023, Andriy Melnyk, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of International Affairs, personally thanked Senator Woo for “pushing for” decisions that resulted in Canada’s support for Ukraine, such as the introduction of sanctions against individuals and entities in Russia.
• Personnel:
  • During a November 2022 meeting of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Senator Woo asked whether there was more action that could be taken to help CAF members find employment across the public service.

Other interests

• Carbon Emissions Reductions:
  • Speaking during a Senate debate in May 2023, Senator Woo noted that “the value of a carbon tax is greatest when it has few exemptions.” He encouraged not “fiddling with a carbon tax” and instead encouraged income supports for farms implicated by carbon pricing.
• International Trade:
  • During a November 2022 meeting of the Senate Committee on Banking, Commerce and the Economy, Senator Woo noted that the Government is “taking us in a different direction in terms of future trade relationships. He asked what concepts such as “friend-shoring” would have on inflation.

Back to top

Tim Louis

LPC – Kitchener – Conestoga (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Music from Rutgers University
• Music: Has recorded four solo albums of original material.
• Radio: Volunteered for a community radio station for seven years, hosting his own weekly radio show, Jazz Sessions.

Connection to DND/CAF

• During his time as a songwriter and musician, Mr. Louis often put on shows for CAF overseas.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2020; 2023 – present); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2020; 2023 – present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2020; 2023 – present); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2020; 2023 – present); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (2023 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2020; 2022 – present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2023 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2023 – present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2023 – present); Canadian Group of the Interparliamentary Union (2023 – present)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-China Legislative Association (2020)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (September 2023 – present); Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food (February 2020 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage (August 2020 – September 2023); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Ukraine
  • During a meeting of the Agriculture Committee in June 2022, Mr. Louis reiterated Canada’s “unwavering support” regarding humanitarian aid to Ukraine, noting Canada should stand “shoulder to shoulder” with Ukraine. During this same meeting, Mr. Louis asked about Russian efforts to “use food as a weapon to destabilize the world economy.”

Other interests

• Animal Welfare:
  • In September 2023, Mr. Louis introduced a private member’s bill that seeks to prohibit the export of horses by air for slaughter.
• Farmers:
  • As part of his role on the Agriculture and Agri-Food committee, Mr. Louis has often advocated for the interests of farmers. For example, during a November 2022 committee meeting, Mr. Louis noted that it was important to protect farmers and the food supply chain from the economic impacts of the war in Ukraine.

Jean-Denis Garon

BQ – Mirabel (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: PhD in Economy from Queen’s University (2012).
• Professor: Professor at l’École des Sciences de la Gestion de l’UQAM since 2009. He previously ran the BA-level Public Management program.
• Journalist: Previously a contributor for the Journal de Montréal, focused on the economy.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (April 2023 – present); Canada-China Legislative Association (April 2023 – present); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (April 2022 – present); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (April 2022 – present); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 – present); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 – present); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 – present); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 – present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (April 2022 – present); Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (April 2022 – present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (April 2022 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (April 2022 – present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (April 2022 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (April 2022 – present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in European Parliamentary Assembly (April 2022 – present); Canadian Group of the Interparliamentary Union (April 2022 – present)
• Other Parliamentary Roles: Party Spokesperson for National Revenue; Green Economy; and Green Equalization (2023 – present)

Committee membership

• Vice Chair: Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (April 2022 – present)
• Member: Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (December 2021 – present)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• McKinsey:
  • During a National Defence committee meeting in February 2023, Mr. Garon noted that “hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts” had been awarded to McKinsey, notably by National Defence, and asked whether there is any risk of information leaks to China.
• NATO:
  • During a debate on Improvements to Long-Term Care in June 2022, Mr. Garon noted that “the government cannot even fulfill its military obligations toward its partners” and that “it took a war in Ukraine to remind the feds that NATO exists and that normal countries take care of their army.”
• Canadian Forces Superannuation Regulations:
  • During previous meetings of the Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations, Mr. Garon has highlighted the “disturbing” length of this file’s lifespan and has noted that granting DND additional time to rectify the issue would signal a lack of respect for “the institution.” He supported the issuance of a disallowance notice as an “incentive to take action.”
  • Mr. Garon has also criticized the government’s lack of responsiveness and successive Ministers’ “inability to do their job.”

Other interests

• Quebec Sovereignty:
  • In August 2023, Mr. Garon tweeted: “As long as Quebec is not master of its destiny, our national language will be condemned to vulnerability. Independence and fast!”
• Health Care:
  • During a May 2023 debate on the Opioid Crisis, Mr. Garon criticized the federal government for “offering to pay one out of every six dollars that the provinces asked for” with regard to health transfers.
• Environment:
  • During a March 2023 debate on the Budget, Mr. Garon criticized the budget for putting “$18.6 billion in subsidies into the pockets of oil companies.”

Back to top

Dean Allison

CPC – Niagara West (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2004
• Re-elected: 2006, 2008, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Wilfrid Laurier University.
• Business: Owns a private equity firm (2008 – present).
• Community: Served as President of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation and as President of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce; founding member of the Belarus Children of Chernobyl Disaster to Canada.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Mr. Allison’s youngest son joined the army reserves in 2006 and serves in the Lincoln and Welland Regiment (St. Catharines, ON). His riding is also within 4th Canadian Division.
• Former member of National Defence Committee (May 2022 – October 2022).

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2023 – present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2023 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2023 – present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2023 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2023 - present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2023 – present)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2006 – 2010; 2018 – 2019); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2019); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2011 – 2019); Canada-China Legislative Association (2010-2013; 2016-2017); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2004 – 2005; 2007 – 2012)
• Other Parliamentary Roles: Director of Canada Parliamentary Affairs Association (2013 – 2016); Counsellor for Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2016 – 2017)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2022 – present) 
• Former Chair: Standing Committee on Public Accounts (February 2020 – August 2020); Subcommittee on Committee Budgets of the Liaison Committee (February 2014 – August 2015); Liaison Committee (May 2006 – August 2015); Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (June 2011 – August 2015); Human Resources, social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (May 2006 – December 2009)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on International Trade (September 2017 – September 2019); Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (February 2016 – September 2017)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Defence (May 2022 – October 2022); Joint Committee on Library of Parliament (December 2021 – October 2022); Liaison Committee (May 2006 – August 2021); Public Accounts (October 2004 – November 2005; February 2020 – August 2020); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020), Foreign Affairs and International Development (March 2010 – September 2017)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• NATO Burden-Sharing:
  • During a House Debate on the 2017 Budget, Mr. Allison disagreed with the defence budget cuts, citing the growing pressure from the U.S. for NATO members to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defence. He also communicated concern over large funding deferments from previous budgets and criticized a “lack of” advancement of procurement projects. During this debate, he expressed his position that he was against the government’s preference for fourth generation fighter jets.
• Russia and Ukraine:
  • In April 2022, while hosting “The Hill Update” for The Forum News, Mr. Allison questioned Editor-In-Chief and Publisher with Global Brief Magazine, Irvin Studin, on the complexities of Russian and Ukrainian geography, resources and why the war was a “logical progression from a Russian perspective.” During this interview, Mr. Allison also showcased an interest in the economic toll of the conflict including, but not limited to, oil, the impact on Canadian businesses, and export restrictions.
  • During an interview for the Niagara Independent in February 2022, Mr. Allison called the escalating conflict in Ukraine “complicated” and wasn’t sure how best Canada should proceed. Mr. Allison also called Russia’s latest actions “intolerable” and “completely unacceptable.”
  • During a House Debate on Foreign Affairs in 2016, Mr. Allison expressed disapproval with the Minister of Foreign Affairs for considering lifting sanctions against Russia despite “Russia's blatant disregard for Ukrainian sovereignty.”
  • In 2014, Mr. Allison was one of thirteen Canadian officials included in a Russian travel ban, which appears to still be in effect in 2023.
• Arctic Sovereignty:
  • At a House National Defence Committee meeting on Main Estimates in June 2022, Mr. Allison acknowledged the importance of acquiring patrol vessels and asked what Canada's needs are in terms of satellite sensors to ensure surveillance of the Arctic.
• CAF Vaccine Mandates:
  • During Statements by Members in June 2022, Mr. Allison told a story of a member of the CAF who is currently in the process of being released by the CAF because he did not want to be vaccinated against COVID-19, noting that the member has “suffered the consequences of the punishing vaccine mandate policy.”
  • In June 2023, Mr. Allison spoke in the House in favour of Bill C-278, An Act to prevent the imposition by the federal government of vaccination mandates for employment and travel. He reflected on the extension of the vaccine mandate to the CAF, saying that “the Liberal government looked soldiers in the eye and said they were unsuitable because of their personal health choices.”

Other interests

• Medically-Assisted Dying:
  • Mr. Allison has spoken numerous times about legislation related to medical assistance in dying (MAID). In February 2023, Mr. Allison spoke in a debate on Bill C-39 (legislation related to MAID), noting that it is “reprehensible and an abdication of responsibility of every parliamentarian of every political strip to allow medically assisted dying to be extended to Canadians  with mental health challenges, given the abject, miserable state of mental health supports in Canada.”
• Firearms:
  • Mr. Allison spoke against the government’s proposed firearms legislation (Bill C-21) during a debate in May 2023, arguing that “the rights of lawful gun-owning Canadians must be respected.”

Élisabeth Brière

LPC – Sherbrooke (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor of Laws, Diploma in Notarial Law, and Certificate in Business Administration from the University of Sherbrooke.
• Law: Worked as a notary for nearly 30 years, most recently as a partner at the private firm Monty Sylvestre, focusing on human rights, real estate and mediation.
• Professor: Worked as a lecturer at the University of Sherbrooke.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Ms. Brière’s son is a member of the Sherbrooke Hussars regiment.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Families, Children and Social Development (2023 – present)
• Former Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health (2021 – 2023); Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (2019 – 2021)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 – 2021); Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (2020 – 2021); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2020 – 2021)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (February 2021 – present); Joint Committee for Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2020 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (February 2020 – August 2020); Special Committee on COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Veterans:
  • In June 2022, Ms. Brière rose in the House to highlight the government’s investments in mental health care for veterans, highlighting that since 2015, the government has invested $140 million for veterans. She made this same statement during a Health Committee meeting that month, as well.
• NATO:
  • During a speech in the House in December 2019, Ms. Brière affirmed her support for the government’s “commitment to the international community, in particular its NATO allies.”
• Ukraine:
  • In March 2022 and February 2023, Ms. Brière participated in rallies in her constituency in support of Ukraine.

Other interests

• Substance Abuse:
  • In June 2023, Ms. Brière made a statement in the House affirming the need to save more lives and reduce the risk of substance abuse. She further noted the government’s commitment to prevention, harm reduction, treatment and enforcement.
  • She also rose in the House in February 2023 to speak about the need to ensure community-wide access to mental health and substance use supports, noting that “our health system is facing major challenges” and “we have to make sure that mental health and substance use care is integrated transparently as an integral and equal part of our universal health care system.”
• Assistance in Dying:
  • In February 2023, Ms. Brière rose in the House in support of Bill C-39 (Medical Assistance in Dying). She called on all members to join her in supporting the bill.
  • In October 2020, she noted that medical assistance in dying is an option and individual choice that is offered out of respect for freedom of choice.

Back to top

Shaun Chen

LPC – Scarborough North (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s of Science in Computer Science and Equity Studies and Master’s Degree in Sociology in Education from the University of Toronto.
• School Board: Elected to the Toronto District School Board the Trustee (2006 – 2014); elected as Chair of the Board in 2014.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2018 – present); Canada-China Legislative Association (2015 – present); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2017 – present); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2020 – present); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2017 – present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2017 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2017 – present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2017 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2017 – present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2017 – present); Canadian Group of the Interparliamentary Union (2016 – present)
• Former Vice-Chair: Canada-China Legislative Association (2020 – 2021)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (January 2016 – February 2016; May 2022 – present); Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (February 2020 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage (February 2020 – November 2020); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (September 2018 – September 2019); Standing Committee on Public Accounts (September 2016 – September 2019); Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (January 2016 – September 2016)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• National Defence Spending:
  • During his time on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Mr. Chen questioned National Defence officials on a number of occasions with regard to departmental spending. For example, in March 2018, Mr. Chen questioned the Royal Military College’s operating costs, noting that staffing is one of National Defence’s largest expenditures.
  • In May 2017, Mr. Chen quoted an Auditor General report, noting that $155 million was provided to DND/CAF to support the Chinook helicopter, and “part of the money was not spent for that purpose.” He criticized the department for this and asked whether it was a “blatant disregard of what is expected by the Treasury Board.”
• Representation in the CAF:
  • During a National Defence Committee meeting in February 2019, Mr. Chen asked whether the CAF had established appropriate representation goals for women in each occupation. During this same meeting, Mr. Chen also spoke about the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for visible minorities within the CAF.
• Support to Veterans:
  • During a Veterans Affairs Committee meeting in June 2019, Mr. Chen questioned why eight out of 10 ombudsman recommendations vis-à-vis veterans' health care had not been implemented. He noted: “to me, it’s one of the most important things, to make sure that veterans and their families get the supports they require.”
  • In June 2019, Mr. Chen also questioned the Minister of Veterans Affairs about whether GBA Plus was used to evaluate current programs for women veterans, and how these services may be better improved so that women veterans can have greater access and be better included.

Other interests

• Countering Anti-Asian Hate:
  • In December 2022, Mr. Chen introduced a motion on anti-Asian racism, in which he called on the government to condemn anti-Asian hate and all forms of racism and racial discrimination.
  • In April 2021, Mr. Chen made a statement in the House condemning anti-Asian racism and calling for action against racism in Canada.

Scot Davidson

CPC – York – Simcoe (ON)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree from York University in Honours Economics.
• Business Owner: Prior to being elected, was a restauranteur and business owner in York Simcoe.
• Local Engagement: Has served on the board of Georgina Medical Health Board, Georgina Waterways Advisor Committee, Lake Simcoe Fisheries Stakeholder Committee, and Jackson’s Point BIA.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former member of Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (April 2021 – August 2021).

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2021 – present); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2021 – present); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2023 – present); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (2023 – present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (December 2021 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2022 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2021 – present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2021 – present)
• Critic: Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Red Tape Reduction (2021 – present)

Committee membership

• Member: Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2022 – present)
• Former Member: Joint Committee on Library of Parliament (February 2022 – October 2022); Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (December 2021 – February 2022); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (April 2021 – August 2021); Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (October 2020 – August 2021); Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (February 2020 – August 2020), Special Committee on COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020); Standing Committee on Public Accounts (April 2019 – September 2019)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Support to CAF Families:
  • During an April 2021 meeting of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Mr. Davidson raised the gaps that exist for families of Canadian Forces members who have been killed in action, pointing to the story of a Silver Cross mother in his constituency.
• Ukraine:
  • In March 2022, Mr. Davidson visited the Polish-Ukrainian border to meet with Ukrainians fleeing the war. He, along with MP Ali Ehassi (LPC), brought four suitcases full of supplies for soldiers and toys for refugee children. He later tweeted: “The strength and defiance of the Ukrainian people is clear to see under these terrible circumstances, and an inspiration to us all. Canadians – including residents of York-Simcoe – stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Ukraine.”
• CAF Readiness:
  • During a June 2023 debate, Mr. Davidson commented on the CAF’s readiness to combat forest fires, noting the military’s lack of CL-215 water bombers. During the same intervention, Mr. Davidson also commented on how the “Canadian military now cannot get helmets,’ and how “the government has not prepared the country.”
  • During a May 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic Committee meeting, Mr. Davidson asked whether the government would consider the establishment of a separate specialized force, under Public Safety, to respond to domestic national emergencies, in order to protect CAF readiness.
• Canadian Forces Supperanuation Regulations:
  • Mr. Davidson supported the issuance of a disallowance notice as “the Committee has to be respected.”

Other interests

• Agriculture:
  • Mr. Davidson introduced Bill C-280, legislation that seeks to create a trust, in order to ensure that farmers are compensated for the fruits and vegetables that they grow and sell, even if the suppliers that buy their produce become insolvent. This legislation passed second reading in the House of Commons in May 2023.
• Bureaucracy:
  • Mr. Davidson speaks regularly in the House, Committee and on his Twitter of the need to remove “red tape” and “regulations” in order to improve outcomes for Canadians. During a debate in May 2023, Mr. Davidson argued that “the Liberal government has increased public service spending by 53%” and that “Canadians continue to face endless delays, a greater regulation burden and more red tape.”

Back to top

Randall Garrison

NDP – Esquimalt – Saanich – Sooke (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2011
• Re-elected: 2015, 2019, 2021

Professional background

• Education: Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of British Columbia.
• Professor: Taught at Camosun College in Criminal Justice, Political Science and Pacific Rim studies (1990 – 2004).
• Community Work: Former President of the Vic West Community Association; Former Executive Director of the South Pacific People’s Foundation of Canada; and Co-Founder of the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former Deputy Critic for National Defence (2015 – 2021).
• Riding includes CFB Esquimalt.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Critic: Critic for Justice, 2SLGBTQI+ Rights (2011 – present); Deputy Critic for National Defence (2021 – present)
• Former Critic: Critic for National Defence (2015 – 2021); Critic for Public Safety (2012 – 2015)
• Parliamentary Association Vice-Chair: Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2017 – present)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2013 – present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2013 – present); Canadian Group of the Interparliamentary Union (2016; 2021 – present)
• Other Parliamentary Roles: Member of Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2018 – 2019); Counsellor for Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 – 2017)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (February 2020 – present); Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (December 2021 – present)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on National Defence (February 2016 – September 2019); Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (June 2011 – August 2015)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Defence (January 2016 – August 2021); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020); Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (June 2011 – August 2015)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Mental Health Support:
  • Mr. Garrison introduced a private member’s bill aiming to amend the National Defence Act, with the intent of repealing the offence of maiming or injuring oneself or another person to render oneself unfit for purpose. He argued that this bill would remove a significant barrier for members of the CAF needing mental health assistance.
  • During a House debate in December 2022, Mr. Garrison asked the Minister of National Defence to support his proposal to remove self-harm as a disciplinary offence “so that serving members can get the mental health supports they need.”
• Sexual Misconduct:
  • During a May 2021 meeting of the National Defence Committee, Mr. Garrison decried efforts by other members to filibuster the Committee’s study on sexual misconduct. During a June 2021 meeting of the Committee, Mr. Garrison also reflected on his own experience as an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse and noted it as his motivation for wanting to “look at why there was no effective action to combat sexual misconduct in the military.”
• CFB Esquimalt:
  • During a November 2018 meeting of the National Defence Committee, Mr. Garrison spoke about the problems with asbestos in some of the older buildings at CFB Esquimalt, especially classroom buildings.
• Marriage After 60:
  • During a 2012 discussion on Bill C-217, which dealt with mischief related to war memorials, Mr. Garrison called for the elimination of the marriage after 60 rule as a means “going beyond symbolism and supporting policies that really show respect for our veterans.”

Other interests

• Coercive and Controlling Behaviour:
  • Mr. Garrison introduced a private member’s bill (Bill C-202) that seeks to amend the Criminal Code to create an offence of engaging in controlling or coercive conduct that has a significant impact on the person towards whom the conduct is directed.
• Mandatory Minimums:
  • During a House debate in June 2022, Mr. Garrison rose in favour of Bill C-5, legislation related to the removal of mandatory minimums. He noted that the removal of mandatory minimum sentences would help tackle the problem of systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
• Sex Work:
  • In July 2020, Mr. Garrison filed a motion requesting that a special parliamentary committee review existing laws that make working conditions more dangerous for sex workers. He noted: “Rather than criminalizing sex work, we need a harm reduction and human rights strategy that empowers sex workers to take all measures necessary to ensure health and safety in their work.”

Patricia Lattazio

LPC – Saint-Léonard – Saint-Michel (QC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2019
• Re-elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from McGill University and Bachelor of Law from the Université du Québec à Montréal.
• Municipal Politics: City councillor for the district of Saint-Leonard East (2015 – 2019)
• School Board: Elected Chairperson of the Comité de gestion de la taxe scolaire de l’île de Montréal (2014 – 2019) and School Board Commissioner for the English Montreal School Board in 2007.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Member: National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2022 – present); Panel of Chairs for the Legislative Committees (2022– present)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2020 – present); Canada-United Kingdom Inter-Parliamentary Association (2020 – present); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2020 – present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2020 – present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2020 – present); Canadian Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (2023 – present) 
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2020 – 2023); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2021 – 2023); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2020 – 2022); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2020 – 2021); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 – 2021); Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (2020 – 2021); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2020 – 2021)

Committee membership

• Member: Joint Committee for Scrutiny of Regulations (September 2023 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Official Languages (February 2020 – September 2023); Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (October 2020 – August 2021); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Appreciation of the CAF:
  • In January 2022, Ms. Lattanzio tweeted that the CAF had arrived in Quebec to support the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, and re-tweeted MND’s post thanking the CAF for their “hard work” supporting Quebecers and all Canadians throughout the pandemic.
• Ukraine:
  • In September 2023, Ms. Lattanzio tweeted that Canada will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
• Veterans:
  • During Question Period in 2019, Ms. Lattanzio referenced the “incredible sacrifices Canadians made during the Second World War on D-Day” and noted that “we do not hear about those who took part in the less-known, but equally important, Italian campaign.”

Other interests

• Health:
  • In January 2022, Ms. Lattanzio introduced a private member’s bill: Bill C-252, an Act to amend the Food and Drugs Act (prohibition of food and beverage marketing directed at children).
• Official Languages:
  • During her time on the Official Languages Committee, Ms. Lattanzio spoke often in favour of official language minority rights in Quebec, highlighting that she represents an anglophone minority community.

Back to top

Taleeb Noormohamed

LPC – Vancouver-Granville (BC)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s of Arts from Princeton University; Master’s degree in International Education Policy from Harvard University; and Doctoral studies as Commonwealth Scholar at Oxford University.
• Federal Public Service: Former senior public servant in the Privy Council Office and at Public Safety Canada; former Director of the Review of the Bombing of Air India Flight 182; established Cross-Cultural Roundtable on Security; appointed to the Board of Directors for the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).
• Technology: Former Vice-President at HomeAway (now Expedia) and former Chief Growth Officer at Farfetch.
• Olympics: Former Vice-President of Strategy and Partnerships for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Parliamentary Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2022 – present); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (2022 – present); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2023 – present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2023 – present); Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2022 – present); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2022 – present); Canada Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2023 – present)
• Other Parliamentary Roles: Chair of Pacific Caucus (2021 – present)

Committee membership

• Member: Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (December 2021 – present); Standing Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations (December 2021 – present)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Ukraine:
  • In February 2022, Mr. Noormohamed tweeted that “Canada will not back down against Russia’s unlawful invasion of Ukraine” and that “Canada must do all we can to send a clear message to Putin.”
• Cyber:
  • In March 2022, Mr. Noormohamed tweeted that cyber war and cyber-attacks can “cripple national infrastructure,” and noted that Canada’s support and expertise will play a “meaningful role in the defence of Ukraine.” He further noted that “CSE is not to be trifled with.”
• Disinformation:
  • In March 2022, Mr. Noormohamed tweeted in support of the University of Ottawa’s new Information Integrity Lab to combat disinformation, stating that research like this is “desperately needed.”
  • During meetings of the House Standing Committee of Public Safety and National Security (SECU), Mr. Noormohamed has shown interest in Russian interference in the Canadian system through its disinformation and misinformation campaigns. In this regard, he asked several questions about the strategies used by Russia, the sectors and groups targeted by these campaigns, as well as the measures taken by the government to counter them.
• CAF Emergency Assistance:
  • During Emergency Debate on the flooding in British Columbia in 2021, Mr. Noormohamed spoke about the “extraordinary efforts” of the CAF to help B.C. residents and noted that “it is gratifying to know we can count on the incredible men and women of our Armed Forces to come to the aid of Canadians.”

Other interests

• Economy:
  • Mr. Noormohamed jointly seconded (formally supported) a Private Member’s Bill to develop a framework for local cooperation and engagement in the implementation of federal programs across various sectors to build a green economy in the Prairie provinces.
• Gun Violence:
  • Mr. Noormohamed has spoken numerous times in House debates and during meetings of the Public Safety committee about the need to tackle “ghost guns” (untraceable firearms that can be bought online and assembled at home). Speaking in the House in May 2023 about Bill C-21, Mr. Noormohamed said: “the amendments that we have introduced to address ghost guns are yet another reason why Bill C-21 is so important and why we must get this passed.”

Len Webber

CPC – Calgary Confederation (AB)

Election to the House of Commons

• First elected: 2015
• Re-elected: 2019, 2021

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary; journeyman communications electrician certificate from SAIT.
• Business: Owned and operated his own contracting business for 10 years; former Vice-President and Director of Webber Academy, a non-denominational preparatory private school.
• Provincial Politics: Elected to three terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for the constituency of Calgary-Foothills Description (2004 – 2014).

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Chair: Conservative Alberta Caucus (2015 – present)
• Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2017 – present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2023 – present); Canda-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2017 – present)
• Former Parliamentary Association Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2017 – 2022); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2017 – 2023); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2021 – 2023); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2016 – 2023); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2021 – 2023); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2021 – 2023); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2021 – 2022)

Committee membership

• Member: Joint Committee for Scrutiny of Regulations (December 2021 – present)
• Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Health (February 2016 – September 2017)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Health (January 2016 – August 2020); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (April 2020 – June 2020); Standing Committee on Public Accounts (October 2020 – August 2021)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Ukraine:
  • On February 25, 2022, Mr. Webber released a statement on Ukraine, noting that he stands “with all Canadians in solidarity with Ukraine and its people.” He also noted that some of his family lives in Kyiv.
  • In May 2022, Mr. Webber presented a petition before the House, calling on the government to provide military equipment and arms for the defence of Ukraine. The petition also called on the government to “work with our NATO allies to close Ukraine’s airspace to the Russians.”
  • His daughter, Lauren, currently works for the World Food Programme, and is posted to Ukraine.
• PTSD:
  • Mr. Webber has spoken on numerous occasions in committee and in the house about the impact of PTSD on those who serve. During a 2017 Health Committee meeting, he reflected on his son-in-law, who was serving in Iraq, and noted that he was concerned for him and everyone there and said that they “should be made aware of PTSD.” During a May 2017 Health Committee meeting, Mr. Webber suggested a “national framework on PTSD.”
• Marriage After 60:
  • During meetings of the Joint Committee for Scrutiny of Regulations, Mr. Webber has voiced displeasure with the government’s lack of responsiveness and noted that the repeal of the ‘marriage after 60’ provision was a “2015 Liberal party election promise” and was “included in the Mandate Letters of several Veterans’ Affairs ministers.”
  • He also supported the issuance of a disallowance notice.

Other interests

• Organ Donation:
  • Mr. Webber introduced a private member’s bill, Bill C-210, which sought to allow Canadians to indicate their interest in being an organ and tissue donor through their annual tax forms. The bill received royal assent in June 2021.
• Conscience Rights:
  • During a House debate on Bill C-230 in September 2022, Mr. Webber affirmed his support for a woman’s right to seek an abortion, as well as his support for access to medical assistance in dying. However, he noted that “a medically assisted death is not acceptable for a large number of Canadians.” He affirmed the need to protect conscience rights in order to ensure that both the “patient and medical staff are fully informed and aware of issues when giving consent.”
• Carbon Pricing:
  • In June 2023, Mr. Webber rose in the House to ask what the Liberal government is going to do make sure Canadians can afford gas.

Back to top

Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu

CPC – Quebec

Election to the Senate

• Appointed: 29 January 2010

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Public Administration
• Quebec Public Service: Regional Director for the Department of Recreation, Game and Fisheries and the Department of the Environment (2006 – 2010)
• Community Activism: Co-founder of Families of Missing Person’s Families’ Association; Le Nid centre for abused women; and a school camp for underprivileged youth

Connection to DND/CAF

• Nil.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Senate Groups: Conservative Party of Canada (2010 – 2015; 2016 – present); Non-affiliated (2015 – 2016)
• Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2019 – present)

Committee membership

• Deputy Chair: Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2022 – present); Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs (2023 – present)
• Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2019 – Present); Joint Committee for Scrutiny of Regulations (2010 – 2011; 2023 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Finance (2010 – 2019); Standing Committee on Human Rights (2010 – 2019); Standing Committee on Transport and Communications (2010 – 2013); Standing Committee on Rules, Procedures and the Rights of Parliament (2010 – 2011); Standing Committee on Official Languages (2010 – 2011); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2010 – 2011); Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2011 – 2013)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• CAF Preparedness:
  • During a February 2023 SECD meeting, Sen Boisvenu noted that Canada’s capabilities are “not at all comparable” to those of Russia, and asked Defence officials to comment on whether Canada should make “substantial efforts” to increase its Arctic presence. He also expressed concerns regarding Canada’s “aging aircraft,” lack of operable submarines, and procurement timelines, and signalled interest in the procurement of nuclear-powered submarines.
  • At a January 2023 SECD meeting, Sen Boisvenu inquired about the serviceability of Canada’s submarine fleet, existence of support infrastructure in the North, and impact of recruitment and retention challenges.
  • During a SECD meeting in November 2022, Sen Boisvenu claimed that the “biggest hurdle” facing CAF procurement is “Canadian bureaucracy,” and asked defence officials whether Canada – like China and Russia – has the ability to streamline its procurement process to “move quickly in response to a threat” in the short term.
  • At the same meeting, Sen Boisvenu noted that “in Quebec, we have been fighting since 2015 to have Davie Shipbuilding recognized in the National Shipbuilding Strategy.” He expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in qualifying the shipyard.
  • At a SECD meeting in March 2022, Sen Boisvenu asked if there was a conflict between Canada and Russia in the near future, and if the CAF was ready to handle the conflict. He also highlighted the need to recruit more personnel in the CAF to operate the new jets, ships and submarines Canada is procuring.
• Arctic Sovereignty:
  • At a November 2022 SECD meeting, Sen Boisvenu stated that Canada and Russia’s submarine technology is “worlds apart” and asked Defence officials to outline “where things stand on the renewal of our submarine fleet.” He pressed for the acquisition of new submarines, noting the delay in equipping the CAF with “state-of-the-art ships.”
  • During a debate in the Senate in October 2022, Sen Boisvenu characterized Arctic security as a matter of “capital importance” following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and claimed that the “Army does not communicate” with reservists and Canadian Rangers to “let them know what help is available.”
  • During a SECD meeting in 2022, Sen Boisvenu highlighted the Russian investment in the Arctic, in term of bases, vessels and submarines. After his statement, he asked CAF witnesses how many years it would take to Canada to catch up to the alleged “Russian militarization” of the Arctic.
  • During Senate Question Period in 2021, Sen Boisvenu criticized then-Minister Sajjan by stating that the Deschamps and Fish reports show “the Defence Minister’s lack of leadership and incompetence.” He also criticized the military justice system for protecting aggressors more than victims.
• Russian Aggression:
  • During a SECD meeting in June 2022, Sen Boisvenu was curious as to whether Russian actions against NATO arms depots in Ukraine was “media hype” or a real concern. He subsequently inquired with DOS SJS if Russia was retreating or advancing.
  • At a SECD meeting in May 2022, Sen Boisvenu asked about the potential benefits for Resolute Bay as Canada develops its “northern hub.”
• Military Justice:
  • During the CDS’ appearance at SECD in 2021, Sen Boisvenu questioned Gen Eyre’s “zero tolerance policy for sexual misconduct” and how many CAF members have been removed from the CAF over sexual assault convictions, whether through the military justice system or criminal courts. He also asked how the CAF intends to recruit more women when it faces issues of sexual misconduct in the ranks.
  • During the same SECD meeting in 2021, Sen Boisvenu questioned why National Defence had not implemented Bill C-77 two years after it was passed, tying the department’s perceived inaction on Bill C-77 and implementing the Deschamps and Fish recommendations to low retention rates for women in the CAF.
• Indigenous Engagement:
  • At a January 2023 SECD meeting, Sen Boisvenu expressed that he was “surprised” to learn – in exchanges with leaders of Indigenous communities – that there is “very little consultation” with Indigenous peoples on the management of northern issues. He also noted “struck” by the “dilapidated state of the housing” in the North, which he characterized as “our Third World.”
  • During a SECD meeting in November 2022, Sen Boisvenu asked panelists to detail their vision for the role of Indigenous communities in Arctic security, and questioned whether the CAF should develop a specific strategy for recruiting members of Indigenous communities into the regular force.
• China-Canada Relations:
  • During a Senate debate on the Canada-China relationship in 2020, Sen Boisvenu called the Prime Minister “naïve‘” for supporting a joint Canada-China joint military exercise, which was opposed by the former CDS. He criticized the Government’s attempts to build “a relationship of trust” with China, noting it was “imprudent” and risked Canada’s relationship with the U.S.
• Multilateral Cooperation: NATO, NORAD
  • At a SECD meeting in February 2023, Sen Boisvenu inquired about pressure from Allies for Canada to meet NATO’s defence spending target, and asked whether further investments in military infrastructure or materiel would “count towards the 2% of GDP” threshold.
  • During the same meeting, Sen Boisvenu criticized Canada’s “half-hearted effort in the Arctic,” and claimed that the U.S. had “strong-armed” Canada to invest in NORAD because “our equipment was absolutely ancient.”
  • During various interventions in Senate debates and committees, Sen Boisvenu has regularly highlighted the importance of NORAD and NATO, as well as CAF collaboration with Allies.

Other interests

• Human Rights:
  • In favour of medical assistance in dying; has called for action to address violence against women.

Pierre J. Dalphond

PSG – Quebec

Election to the Senate

• Appointed: June 6, 2018

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Law and a Master’s degree in Philosophy, Politics and Law from Oxford University.
• Law: Clerk of the Supreme Court of Canada (1979 – 1980); Lawyer at Clarkson Tétrault law firm (1984 – 1995); Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec (1995 – 2002); Judge, Quebec Court of Appeal (2002 – 2018).

Connection to DND/CAF

• Former member of the Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2019 – 2022).

Political and parliamentary roles

• Senate Groups: Independent Senators Group (2018 – 2020); Progressive Senate Group (2020 – present)
• Senate Roles: Deputy Leader of the Progressive Senate Group (2020 – present)

Committee membership

• Deputy Chair: Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2023 – present)
• Member: Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying (2020 – 2021; 2023 – present); Subcommittee on Long Term Vision and Plan (2023 – present); Subcommittee on Senate Estimates and Committee Budgets (2023 – present); Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (2023 – present); Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2018 – present); Standing Committee on Official Languages (2021 – Present); Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2021 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2019 – 2022); Standing Committee on Rules, Procedures and the Rights of Parliament (2018 – 2021); Committee of Selection (2019 – 2020); Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2018 – 2020); Special Senate Committee on Senate Modernization (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2018 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2018 – 2019)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Mental Health for Veterans:
  • During a meeting of SECD in May 2021, Sen Dalphond took interest in a proposal to extend mental health treatment for family members of veterans and questioned witnesses about estimated costs for this proposal.
• Retention and Recruitment:
  • During a SECD in May 2021, Sen Dalphond showed interest in retention and recruitment issues within the CAF, and he asked National Defence witnesses to comment on the recruitment and retention rates in the Canadian Forces and how the pandemic is affecting hiring and retention.
• China:
  • During a meeting of SECD in May 2021, Sen Dalphond asked National Defence witnesses how strategic partnerships with both NORAD and NATO could counter emerging threats like China.

Other interests

• Animal Rights:
  • Sen. Dalphond has championed several bills in the Senate related to animal rights, including a bill related to the protection of animals in captivity, a bill facilitating a transition away from animal chemical testing, and a bill banning the export of live horses for slaughter.
• Human Rights:
  • In October 2022, Sen. Dalphond rose in the Senate to express solidarity with jailed Russian opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza. He also worked with other parliamentarians to make Kara-Murza an Honorary Canadian Citizen.
  • Sen. Dalphond rose in the Senate in March 2023 to denounced Uganda’s criminalization of LGBTQ2+ activity, calling it a “breach of universal human rights..”

Back to top

Tony Dean

ISG – Ontario

Election to the House of Commons

• Appointed: November 10, 2016

Professional background

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in sociology and social anthropology from University of Hull, and a Master’s degree in sociology from McMaster University.
• Ontario Public Service: Secretary of the Cabinet, Head of the Public Service and Clerk of the Executive Council (2002 – 2008).
• Academia: Professor at the School of Public Policy and Governance at the University of Toronto; senior research fellow at Harvard Kennedy School in 2010.
• Writer: Contributor to the Toronto Star and the UK-based Guardian newspaper; published a book in 2015 on “Building Better Public Services.”

Connection to DND/CAF

• Mr. Dean is the Chair of the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs (SECD). In June 2023, SECD released a report on Arctic security.

Political and parliamentary roles

• Senate Group: Independent Senators Group (2016 – present)

Committee membership

• Chair: Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs (2021 – present)
• Member: Committee of Selection (2021– Present); Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (2016 – 2019; 2021 – present)
• Former Member: Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2016 – 2021); Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2016 – 2021); Standing Committee on Transport and Communications (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Security and Defence (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on National Finance (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs (2016 – 2019); Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources (2016 – 2019); Subcommittee on Human Resources of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2021); Subcommittee on Diversity of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (2019 – 2021)

Points of interests to DND/CAF

• Defence Procurement / Infrastructure Projects:
  • In a December 2022 SECD meeting – and in a subsequent engagement in March 2023 on the Defence Policy Update – Sen Dean raised the issue of extended procurement timelines and sought to confirm whether interim measures were in place to address security threats in the near term.
  • During a SECD meeting in January 2023, Sen Dean noted that an evident gap exists between the practical impact of military infrastructure spending in the North and the “expectations of potential recipients,” and questioned whether the “misalignment of those expectations” was being considered.
  • At a SECD meeting in December 2022, Sen Dean asked the Premier of the Yukon to speak to his relationships with the federal government, departments, and agencies, particularly in the “planning of renewed infrastructure.”
• Russia:
  • At a meeting of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2019, Sen Dean asked several questions about Russia's intentions in Eastern Europe, such as “where Russian forces might be poking and probing and continuing insurgent activity?” and “if the annexation of the Crimea was the only objective of Russia in Ukraine?”
• Cyber Security:
  • Sen Dean has championed Bill C-59 (An Act respecting national security matters) and supports the establishment of new mechanisms that would allow national security organizations to be nimble and adapt to emerging technologies.
• Personnel:
  • During a Senate debate in September 2022, Sen Dean acknowledged that access to healthcare for military families was particularly challenging and suggested that the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs (SECD) would give the issue further attention in the future.
• Arctic Security:
  • In an interview given to CBC News in June 2023, Sen. Dean called on the government to engage Indigenous communities more regarding Arctic security planning.
  • In May 2023, Sen. Dean also gave an interview to The Hill Times, in which he noted that aging infrastructure in the North, including the need for more modern radar and more ships, are among the most important priorities for Canada’s national security.

Other interests

• Nil.

Back to top