Jill McKnight
Delta, British Columbia · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I thank all members of the Women Veterans Council for their service to our country and for the advice and insight they offer as a council. Their lived experiences have shaped important conversations, and I remain grateful to the ongoing conversations.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada is represented at the G7 summit today as a country that has hit its 2% NATO target this year, as a country that has attracted foreign direct investment at twice the rate of our nearest G7 countries, and as a country that has secured 20 economic and defence agreements over four continents.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from the other side for the question specifically about youth jobs and youth employment. Youth employment rose by 22,000 jobs in May. Youth unemployment fell by 0.9%, the first decline since January.”
“Mr. Speaker, as I said, British Columbians see that we are facing headwinds caused by geopolitical events and tariffs. The U.S. has fundamentally changed its approach to trade, raising tariffs to levels that have not been seen since the Great Depression. Canadians want to see the steps that we are taking to address this.”
“Mr. Speaker, British Columbians are talking to me about the fact that they see we are facing headwinds for our economy right now. They see the U.S. charging tariffs that have not been seen since the Great Depression.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Vancouver Island for bringing up that there are some headwinds facing our economy right now. That is why I think it is really important for us to talk about the forestry sector, which I know is really prevalent on Vancouver Island.”
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“Mr. Speaker, Veterans Affairs Canada takes the mental health of our veterans and the supports for them very seriously, and it will continue to advance the opportunities that we have available to support them. That included bringing in access to mental health supports, which was available for a two-year period with no waiting period, so that we could ensure that veterans got the help and support they needed right away without waiting on paperwork. I would be happy to follow up with my colleague to discuss other steps in the works right now.”
“By passing Bill C-11 , we would take an essential step toward addressing military sexual trauma with the urgency, care and compassion it merits. By working collaboratively with the Department of National Defence and other key partners, we will create a safer and more supportive environment for all those who have worn the uniform and ensure that their sacrifices are honoured by giving them the respect and care they deserve.”
“In addition to the work within our government, we must also continue to build and strengthen partnerships with other organizations and stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach. This includes collaborating with military leadership, advocacy groups, mental health professionals and survivors to create a support system that meaningfully improves outcomes. While Bill C-11 represents a significant step forward, the work does not end here. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to support survivors, hold perpetrators accountable and promote a culture of respect and safety within the military and within veteran communities. Veterans Affairs Canada is committed to continuing this work, ensuring that the provisions of Bill C-11 are implemented effectively, and that we remain responsive to the evolving needs of our veterans.”
“Together, the minister and I, as well as our departments, are committed to ensuring the well-being of those who serve and have served our country. My department actively collaborates with the Department of National Defence's sexual misconduct support and resource centre to develop additional supports for individuals affected by military sexual trauma. The resource centre's peer support program is a critical initiative that offers compassionate, trauma-informed support to veterans who have experienced MST. By connecting survivors with trained peers who understand their unique challenges, this program fosters healing, resilience and a renewed sense of community. It is a meaningful step toward ensuring that no veteran faces their recovery journey alone.”
“By removing jurisdiction over sexual offences from the military chain of command, the bill could address the isolation, stigma and fear of reprisal that have silenced survivors for decades. I extend my appreciation to my colleague the Minister of National Defence and his department for their leadership and diligence in putting forward this legislation. The collaboration between our departments has been pivotal in shaping a response to MST that is both comprehensive and compassionate. Our government's commitment to improving the military justice system, strengthening support for survivors and fostering a culture of respect and accountability remains unwavering. Its proactive approach and dedication to this cause will be instrumental in the passage of Bill C-11 .”
“Another pivotal element of Bill C-11 would be a much-needed culture change within the military and veteran communities. Addressing MST effectively requires a shift in attitudes and behaviours at all levels of the military establishment. It is essential that supports and services are both readily available and easily accessible to those who need them. (1555) Equally important is ensuring that victims know where safe spaces exist for them to come forward to share their experiences. Veterans Affairs Canada recognizes that changing entrenched cultural norms is not easily achieved, but it remains essential for creating a safe and supportive environment for all service members. Bill C-11 's focus on prevention and cultural change is a proactive step toward ensuring that future generations of military personnel are protected from such trauma.”
“Bill C-11 would recognize and respond to the unique needs of survivors of military sexual trauma. For too long, survivors of MST have faced insurmountable barriers to obtaining justice and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. We need to improve transparency and accountability within the military justice system and provide a mechanism for survivors to file complaints in a manner that respects their dignity and ensures their voices are heard. This bill would establish a clear framework for investigating and responding to allegations of sexual misconduct while also promoting an environment of accountability. In doing so, the bill would not only support survivors in their quest for justice, but also send a strong message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in the military.”
“It is a systemic one that has affected many people who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. Additionally, the effects of MST extend beyond the individual, impacting their families, relationships and communities. It can also lead to significant barriers in accessing the support and services they need. As a department committed to the well-being of our veterans, Veterans Affairs Canada understands the urgency of addressing these challenges comprehensively and effectively. Upon the resumption of Parliament last month, I had a very informative and insightful conversation with Senator Rebecca Patterson, who is a veteran and a champion for members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans and their families. We discussed the complexities of MST and the urgent progress still needed.”
“Trauma from these experiences can have lasting and devastating effects on our CAF members and veterans. It affects their short- and long-term mental health, their emotional well-being, personal relationships and overall quality of life. To fully understand the relevance of Bill C-11 , it is important to first understand the connection between MST and post-traumatic stress disorder. Research has demonstrated that women in service, who are more likely to experience MST, are disproportionately affected by PTSD. The trauma from such experiences, including MST, often leads to a range of challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. Veterans Affairs Canada recognizes that PTSD is not just a personal issue.”
“They spoke of the power of peer connection, the need for trauma-informed systems and their steadfast hope that the Canadian Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Canada will continue to evolve and grow in their supports for women. Their courage, advocacy and vision have shaped my conviction and are the reason I rise to speak today to underscore the importance of Bill C-11 , the military justice system modernization act. This legislation would be a significant step forward in addressing a deeply troubling aspect of military service, which is military sexual trauma, also known as MST. MST is a serious concern, with one in four women in our Armed Forces having experienced it in some form. It encompasses sexual harassment, assault and other forms of sexual violence that occur during military service.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Rivière-du-Nord . I am still learning French, so I will give my comments in English. [ English ] I wish to acknowledge my colleague for his service and thank him for his service to Canada. On June 13, as the newly appointed Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, I had the profound honour of meeting a delegation of remarkable women veterans. They shared with me deeply personal stories of service, strength and the unique challenges they have faced as women veterans. Their voices were clear: Women veterans want to be recognized not only for their service but also for the distinct barriers they continue to face in access to care and support.”
“Mr. Speaker, last week, I unveiled the 2025 Veterans' Week poster at Pinewood Elementary in Delta, B.C., joined by members of the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group and the 39 Canadian Brigade Group. This year's theme, “Canadian Armed Forces in the Americas”, recognizes the CAF's military supports across continents, from national security to disaster relief to humanitarian aid. By helping young people understand more about who serves and why, we inspire the next generation of service and remembrance.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his service. I remain committed to ensuring that all those who have served and continue to serve are honoured meaningfully and respectfully. Proposed changes for the wreaths for parliamentarians program were made with the understanding that MPs would work directly with the Royal Canadian Legion, with proceeds supporting their local branches. I am learning the changes could be significantly disruptive to Remembrance Day. I have instructed my department to revert to the previous format for this year. This Veterans' Week, I encourage all Canadians to support their local legions and support the work our veterans have done for this country.”
“Mr. Speaker, as I said, today is a great day for Canada. Our allies and our partners around the world are watching. I find it surprising that the Conservatives want to talk about supporting and equipping forces when they are the ones who cut Canada's defence spending to below 1%. On this side of the House, Canada's new government is investing now to re-equip, rebuild and bolster our armed forces and our defence industrial capacity. We will ensure Canada remains strong, sovereign and secure.”
“Mr. Speaker, today is a good day for Canada. This morning, the Prime Minister announced a $9.3-billion investment in Canada's defence, which means we would achieve NATO's 2% target this fiscal year. This is the largest investment in defence since the end of the Second World War. On this side of the House, we are thankful to those who serve, past and present.”
“Mr. Speaker, as the Minister of Veterans Affairs, I am honoured to answer my first question here in the House. The national veterans employment strategy focuses on connecting veterans to good jobs, expanding access to skills training and supporting entrepreneurship. It also recognizes veteran-ready employers and strengthens hiring in the public service. I am proud to build more opportunities for our veterans.”