Dear Editor:
We would like to respond to the letter published Nov. 16, MPs Forget Forces' Treatment.
The New Veterans Charter was designed around the fundamental principles of modern disability management, wellness and reintegration and was passed with all-party support. The charter provides a suite of benefits to assist veterans as they transition from military to civilian life.
In addition to providing financial benefits, the charter offers veterans and their families comprehensive rehabilitation services, career transition services, job-placement services, retirement benefits, health benefits and access to operational stress injury clinics.
In 2011, our government responded to suggestions from veterans and introduced the enhanced New Veterans Charter Act. These enhancements offered flexible payment options for disability awards; improved access to monthly benefits for approximately 3,500 seriously disabled veterans; provided an additional funding to approximately 500 veterans who cannot be suitably, gainfully employed; and provided a minimum annual pre-tax income of $40,000 for veterans participating in VAC's rehabilitation program.
With these enhancements, our most ill and injured veterans are guaranteed an income of $58,000 a year as well as a one-time payment of $293,308.
Our government has consistently acted to ensure veterans are receiving the support they need. We are cutting red tape so that veterans and their families receive the hassle-free service they deserve. Through the Veterans Transition Action Plan we are putting in place improved measures to assist veterans as they transition from military to civilian life.
Whether through the charter, cutting red tape or the Veterans Transition Action Plan our government continues to respond to the changing needs of Canada's veterans and their families and is ensuring they have the support they need when and where they need it.
Andrew Saxton, M.P., North Vancouver
John Weston, MP, West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast -Sea to Sky Country,
