I am writing as a follow-up on an article regarding Veterans Affairs Canada that appeared in the Red Deer Advocate on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011 (Military families deserve more respect, by columnist Joe McLaughlin).
I want to assure Canadians that our government is taking action for our veterans and our men and women in uniform. Since 2006, we have increased support for our veterans and we will continue to stand up for our heroes the same way they have stood up for our country.
Recently, the Harper government announced significant enhancements to the New Veterans Charter to ensure our most injured veterans have the care they need. These changes total an investment of $189.4 million over the next five years. We have set aside $2 billion over the life of the program to make sure our veterans have the support they need whether it be today or in the future. These enhancements are further evidence of our government’s commitment to veterans.
We have been very clear in saying that benefits for our veterans will be maintained. We are taking action by cutting red tape to ensure our veterans receive the best possible service from the department. Our veterans said they wanted a more hassle-free system with less bureaucratic roadblocks. We listened and we are taking action by giving our veterans access to the benefits and services they deserve more quickly with fewer barriers.
This is the government that has continuously stood up for our veterans and our men and women in uniform. We will continue to stay the course and provide our heroes with the care they need when they need it.
Steven Blaney
Minister of Veterans Affairs, Ottaw