Elevate your local knowledge
Sign up for the iNFOnews newsletter today!
With lawsuit looming, Fantino asks for clarity on Canada’s obligation to vets
OTTAWA – Veterans Affairs Minister Julian Fantino has asked a House of Commons committee to spell out precisely what kind of social and legal obligation Canada has to its soldiers.
The issue is at the heart of a class-action lawsuit underway in B.C., where veterans of the Afghan war say they are being discriminated against by Ottawa’s new benefits system.
The Conservatives, who bill themselves as champions of Canadian soldiers, faced intense criticism last summer when federal lawyers filed their defence in the court case.
Justice Department attorneys argued Canada has no extraordinary obligation to care for wounded and broken veterans, despite pledges of previous governments dating back to the First World War.
Fantino wants MPs to define what Canada’s shared duty and responsibility should be for possible inclusion in the veterans charter.
The Commons veterans committee is currently studying whether changes to the charter, made in 2011, are having the desired effect.
News from © The Canadian Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?
You must be logged in to post a comment.
