Senate Committee on National Security and Defence Elects Senator Pamela Wallin As Committee Chair

Ottawa, March 19, 2010- At an organization meeting held this week, the Senate Standing Committee on National Security and Defence elected Senator Pamela Wallin (Saskatchewan) as chair of the committee while Senator Romeo Dallaire (Gulf – Quebec), was elected deputy chair.

“I’m pleased to lead this new, energetic committee as we tackle several timely and pressing issues in the coming session. We will take a close look at the implications of troop withdrawal in Afghanistan, plans to ensure arctic sovereignty, and border security with the United States, our largest trading partner and ally,” said Senator Wallin.

Senator Dallaire said: “As deputy chair of the Senate Committee on National Security and Defence, I am eager to undertake a national review of several essential issues including quality of life for veterans and their families and Canada’s support of various missions abroad.”

The committee also re-established the Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs comprised of five senators from the parent committee. At an organizational meeting on March 17, 2010, the subcommittee elected Senator Tommy Banks (Alberta) as chair and Senator Fabian Manning (Newfoundland and Labrador) as deputy chair.

Members of the Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence include Senators Tommy Banks (Alberta), Joseph A. Day (Saint John-Kennebecasis – New Brunswick), Romeo Dallaire (Gulf- Quebec), Daniel C. Lang (Yukon), Fabian C. Manning (Newfoundland and Labrador), Michael A. Meighen (St. Marys – Ontario), Pierre-Claude Nolin (De Salaberry-Quebec), Lucie Pépin (Shawinegan – Quebec), and Pamela Wallin (Saskatchewan).

For the original press release, visit http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/SEN/Committee/403/defe/press/19mar10-e.htm