MP Gallant commends outgoing Defence Minister O’Connor

August 15, 2007

PEMBROKE – Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MP Cheryl Gallant offered her thanks and appreciation to Minister of National Defence Gordon O’Connor.

“Minister O’Connor demonstrated his valuable military experience during his tenure as Minister and I know that he earned the deep respect of the military and their families,” MP Gallant said.

While he was Defence Minister, MP Gallant pointed out that O’Connor oversaw a substantial increase to the defence budget with $5.3 billion over the next five years that allowed for the acquisition of vital equipment and vehicles.

Shortly after Mr. O'Connor became Minister of National Defence, Canada’s New Government went ahead with the purchase of four C-17 Globemaster III heavy lift aircraft, 16 CH-47 Chinook helicopters, 17 C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft, 2300 medium-sized logistics trucks and for three Joint Support Ships

“Having a man who held the rank of Brigadier General certainly made Minister O’Connor a very natural choice as Minister of National Defence. His experience and his understanding of military life was a valuable resource to all Members of Parliament,” MP Gallant said.