Our Government is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Veterans, who have always defended our shared values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.  That is why, over our first four budgets, we have allotted a total of $2.1 billion more for Veterans benefits, programs and services. We have re-stored the 1995 funding cuts to our Allied Veterans and extended these vital federal benefits and services to Allied Vets from the Korean War and some family members.  This will help 3,600 Allied Vets and is estimated to cost $219 million over five years.

Our new funding has also included $282 million over three years to extend the Veterans Independence Program to thousands of Veterans widows to help them remain independent in their own homes.

Our New Veterans Charter and Veteran’s Bill of Rights will ensure past Veterans and modern-day Veterans will be treated fairly by their government.  Government policy and programs will focus on the wellness of our Veterans and their families.

Our government created the position of a Veteran’s Ombudsman, and appointed Col. Pat Stogran to the office. He is playing an important role in raising awareness of the needs and concerns of veterans, and his annual report will be tabled in Parliament for all Canadians to see.

We’ve delivered a $96.5 million package of ex-gratia payments to fulfill our pledge to address the decades-old issue of ‘Agent Orange’ tests at CFB Gagetown.
Finally, our government is working with the Department of National Defence.  We have opened Integrated Personnel Support Centres on 19 CF Bases and Wings as part of a national network dedicated to the care of ill and injured Canadian Forces personnel, former personnel, and their families.

Veterans Affairs is doubling the number of operational ‘Stress Injury Clinics’ to ten and we hired eight more support counsellors for our military families.  Operational Stress Injury Social Support Counsellors will help other military families cope with the very real mental health issues that come with service to our country.

As Canadians, during November 11th Remembrance, remember those that have served and those serving today in our Canadian Forces.  I want to assure you that your government is working on your behalf, 365 days a year, to take actions that will show your appreciation for their service in a tangible way.  Lest we forget.

Colin Mayes, MP - Okanagan Shuswap