NDP outraged as Liberals take veterans back to court

OTTAWA – New Democrats are outraged by reports today that veterans are yet again being fought in court by their own government that will deny our heroes their benefits. This comes after the Liberal Party campaigned on bringing back a lifetime pension for veterans.

After Conservatives spent $700,000 fighting veterans in court, the Liberal government has hired the same lawyer used by the Conservatives, to try once again to deny that the government owes veterans a special obligation due to their service to this country.

"These veterans have earned our respect and deserve the benefits they are owed – continuing this shameful lawsuit is a disgrace," said Irene Mathyssen (London-Fanshawe) NDP Critic for Veterans Affairs.

Just last year the House unanimously passed an NDP motion that recognizes Canada's covenant of moral, social, legal, and financial obligations to veterans.

"The government is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars fighting wounded veterans in court instead of spending that money to ensure that all veterans receive the benefits and services they require," added Mathyssen.