DEVOLIN SUPPORTS NEW VETERANS CHARTER

April 12, 2006

OTTAWA – Local MP Barry Devolin was on hand to launch Canada’s new Veterans Charter at a ceremony in Ottawa recently. The legislation will enable Veterans Affairs Canada to modernize services, assistance and compensation to Canadian Forces members, veterans and their families.

“The Charter will offer comprehensive levels of support to our men and women who are injured or disabled while serving their country,” explained Devolin. “Our troops are putting a lot on the line for their country so they need to know their government will ensure they receive the best treatment possible.”

“The new Veterans Charter is the most sweeping change to veterans legislation since the end of the Second World War and is a step towards giving Canadian veterans the respect and support they deserve,” said Devolin. “I was honoured and pleased to vote in support of Bill C-45 when it came before the House of Commons.”

“In addition to the new Veterans Charter, Prime Minister Harper and Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson will be working towards implementing a Veterans’ Bill of Rights and establishing a Veterans’ Ombudsman,” stated Devolin. “Those pieces of legislation are expected to allow the government to respond quickly and fairly to the concerns of our veterans and quickly resolving veterans’ grievances with the system.”

“I also want to thank all the veterans in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of their country and all the brave men and women who are currently serving in Canada’s armed forces,” said Devolin.

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For more information contact:
Barry Devolin, MP 
(705) 324-2400 (866) 688-9881