Fix Veterans Affairs, restore respect and dignity for veterans

DARTMOUTH – New Democrat leader Jack Layton was joined today by former Veterans Ombudsman Pat Stogran at a large rally in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

Layton outlined his plan for restoring pensions and benefits for retired and disabled RCMP and Canadian Forces members, improving the lives of over 100 000 veterans, and slammed Harper’s broken promises to Canada’s veterans.

“Under Stephen Harper, Veteran’s Affairs has adopted an insurance company style culture of denial,” said Layton. “They should be acting as advocates for Canadian Forces veterans and former RCMP officers.”

Jack Layton’s plan will:

• End unfair reductions for retired and disabled CF and RCMP veterans.
• Restore the Service Income Security Insurance Plan for retired and disabled veterans.
• Overhaul the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.
• Take action on a public inquiry into toxic chemical defoliation at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown.
• Introduce a “Helmets-to-Hardhats” program to help veterans transition to construction and shipbuilding trades.

“We owe them our deepest respect and gratitude,” said Layton. “Our plan will improve the lives of retired military and RCMP veterans in Canada. That’s Canadian Leadership.”