Statement on the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force

NDP critic for national defence Lindsay Mathyssen (London—Fanshawe) made the following statement:

"Today marks the centennial anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). One hundred years ago, the RCAF began as a small team mostly dedicated to mapping forest fires and patrolling fisheries. By the Second World War, our air force courageously fought the Nazis alongside other allied countries.

Today, the RCAF continues to serve Canadians every day. Whether it’s maritime patrols, monitoring the Arctic, supporting Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) deployments abroad, or emergency evacuations during our escalating wildfire seasons, the RCAF continues its rich legacy in supporting Canadians.

Across the Canadian Armed Forces, but particularly the Air Force, we are experiencing an unprecedented recruitment and retention crisis. The government must provide adequate housing and support to our women who serve, their families, and those who do the thankless work of supporting our military members through cooking, cleaning and repairing on bases. The NDP will keep fighting until our men and women have the support they deserve.

As we celebrate this milestone anniversary for the RCAF, we must look forward to ensuring we are prepared for the future ahead by delivering the respect and support to the people who serve."