News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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CANADA'S NEW GOVERNMENT DELIVERS FOR VETERANS

April 3, 2007
Kitchener, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Canada's New Government is following through on its commitment to create a Veterans' Bill of Rights and a Veterans' Ombudsman.

"The brave men and women of the Canadian Forces and RCMP have always acted courageously when called upon; and it's because Veterans have always been willing to stand up for our country and its interests, Canada's New Government is standing by them now," said the Prime Minister.

The Bill of Rights, which will take effect immediately, will strengthen the government's ability to respond quickly and fairly, to the concerns of Canada's Veterans. It is a clear and concise statement that will allow Veterans Affairs to continue to ensure every Canadian Veteran is treated with respect, with dignity and with fairness.

The Ombudsman will operate at arms-length from government, and will play an important role in raising the awareness of the needs and concerns of Veterans. The Ombudsman will submit a report to the Minister on an annual basis, which will be tabled in Parliament.

"Our Veterans have given their very best to Canada," said Prime Minister Harper. "Through the Veterans' Bill of Rights and Veterans' Ombudsman, our government is taking yet another step to ensure that Canada does its very best for them."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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