My question is for Senator Gold, the Government Representative in the Senate. Jonathan Moor, Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief Financial Officer at the Department of National Defence, stated that 60% of the Canadian Coast Guard budget is already included in the military spending Canada reports to NATO. Since when has this been the case, and on what basis can a civilian, unarmed organization be counted on to such an extent in our defence expenditures?

Thank you for your question. The Canadian Coast Guard plays a very important role in Canada and for Canadians analogous to roles played by similar organizations in other parts of the world. Every country is different and has different structures and ways in which it is organized.

As we look to the future, especially in our North — our vast borders in Northern Canada — the Coast Guard will play an ever-increasing role in protecting Canadians from risk, affirming our sovereignty and playing its part along with other players in the Canadian government to protect and defend Canadians.

Senator Gold, if 60% of the Coast Guard’s budget is already being counted, and, according to Mr. Moor, only an additional portion could be added, why did the Prime Minister present the integration of the Coast Guard as a decisive step towards reaching the 2% NATO defence spending targets? Was this simply political theatre, an accounting exercise or action with an asset that’s not equipped for such a role?

Thank you for your question. Respectfully, senator, I’m not sure that any of the answers you offered me are necessarily correct or capture the intent of this government.

This government recognizes that in too many ways our military infrastructure — whether physical or human resources — needs to change and improve so that it is up to the task. This is one area in which work needs to be and will be done.

Thank you for your question and for allowing me to elaborate further on your colleague’s earlier question.

This government is moving quickly to address the challenges that Canada is facing. This government has made very clear announcements, which, frankly, have deviated from the way in which previous governments over many decades have operated — certainly with regard to defence. The Prime Minister and his cabinet members, working with others in our military and the Coast Guard, will work together to chart a path whereby the Coast Guard, military and other important institutions in our nation can work together to strengthen our defence and protect our sovereignty.

The Prime Minister has just finished his meetings at NATO. Work will need to be done — and properly so — even at the expedited pace we’re expecting from, and witnessing in, this government. I have every expectation that the budget figures will be presented in due course.