Editor:
Re: A moral obligation, Dec. 16 letters.
Letter-writer Hardy Staub is very critical of the federal government’s designation of benefits for our veterans. He says the Harper government’s treatment of veterans is now approaching being mean-spirited and vindictive. This is implying the federal government is becoming spiteful and disposed to revenge against our veterans.
I respect Staub’s opinions, but his letter lacks credibility for two reasons:
1. He is a disgruntled and defeated former federal Liberal candidate in this area and still appears to have an axe to grind against the Harper government.
2. To suggest the federal government is in defiance of veterans is an inaccurate and irresponsible statement. Our veterans are held in high esteem by both the Canadian government and the citizens of Canada.
With respect to disability benefits, I as a veteran and other veterans I know have received complete government support and full benefits to which we are entitled. If a veteran is not satisfied with the entitlements received, he or she can appeal the decision, and free legal council will be provided at the hearing.
With respect to funding and support for veterans, the present government has increased funding by over $4 billion since taking office in 2006 and have substantially increased the number of new service Canada locations where veterans can receive service and support. This information was obtained from an article in the Peace Arch News, “Conflict over Veterans affairs,” dated Feb. 13.
These facts are in conflict with Staub’s assessment of the Harper government’s treatment of veterans as approaching being mean-spirited and vindictive.
Bill Parrott, Surrey