By: Hon. Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West
Every year, on Remembrance Day, we remember the courage of those who served their country in conflict, who fought for freedom and democracy, and who protect us today at home and abroad. November 11 marks the end of hostilities in the First World War in 1918, but today it is an opportunity to honour all veterans across Canada.
Here in Nova Scotia, we have a proud military history. Our Forces members and veterans put service above themselves, and our many military families serve alongside them, in their way, with the support they offer and the sacrifices they make that allow their loved ones to serve Canada. This year, I encourage everyone to remember, respect, and reflect by attending a community Remembrance Day ceremony.
One important way Canada honours our veterans is through the preservation of Juno Beach and the Juno Beach Centre. On June 6, 1944, our soldiers landed on Juno Beach as part of one of the most ambitious military operations the world had ever seen. Our arrival marked a turning point for the Allies, and a crucial step in liberating France. Since 2003, the Juno Beach Centre in Normandy has stood as a place of remembrance and emotion, commemorating the Canadians lost in WWII. And in 2018, as provincial Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie, I had the honour of visiting Normandy to pay my respects.
However, earlier this year, it became clear that a proposed condominium development adjacent to the beach stood to compromise the integrity of Juno Beach and the Centre’s mission. Working with the French government and local French authorities, the Canadian government intervened to ensure the preservation of the memory of those who fought would not be jeopardized. Now, our two nations have confirmed our shared commitment to not only protect the area through a 99-year lease, but to reunite it with other areas to create one consolidated site. This ensures Juno Beach will be properly respected for generations to come.
Remembrance Day is also about recognizing how we can better support our veterans and their families. Veterans need and deserve services, but they can face challenges in accessing available supports. To assist them, Veterans Affairs Canada’s case managers work directly with those who have served. To ensure that their help continues to improve veterans’ well-being, our government has announced a $43 million investment to maintain staffing levels, while upgrading case managers’ tools so they can spend more time working directly with veterans facing complex challenges.
This month, let’s all find ways to honour, celebrate, and support those we have to thank for keeping Canada strong and free.
