QUESTION PERIOD — Ministry of Public Services and Procurement
Military Procurement
October 18, 2023
Minister, I have a quick question. Minister Blair, with his Department of National Defence, or DND, portfolio, says a billion dollars is going to be taken out of that department. However, we have men and women in the Canadian Armed Forces who are tasked to respond here at home, and also increasingly in different locations around the world. Can we have assurance that the government and your department will not interfere with — will promote, in fact — the procurement of necessary equipment? I ask because the Canadian Armed Forces have an equipment issue.
You have my assurance. Equally importantly, you have the assurance of my colleague Minister Blair. The fact that the defence budget is now $26 billion and three years from now will be $39 billion speaks to this. Yes, there might be savings to be found in all departments — including mine — but for the DND, $26 billion to $39 billion in three years is, I think, a significant demonstration that we’re taking the needs of the DND seriously.
Honourable senators, the time for Question Period has expired. I am sure you will join me in thanking Minister Duclos for being here with us today.
Thank you, minister. We will now resume the proceedings where we left off.
