Conservative Must Act to Address Soldiers' Health Care Needs

For Immediate Release
December 18, 2008
 
OTTAWA – A recent report by the Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces exposes the need for the Conservative government to act to ensure that Canada’s soldiers enjoy the health care services they deserve, Liberal Veterans Affairs Critic Rob Oliphant said today.

“The time for study has passed. It is time this government took action to help our soldiers and veterans,” said Mr. Oliphant.

Mr. Oliphant was referring to the fact that this most recent report on operational stress injuries by Interim Ombudsman Mary McFadyn follows up on an earlier Ombudsman’s report that was first issued in 2002 and over half of the original recommendations have yet to be implemented by the Conservative government.

“The Conservative government has all but dismissed Ms. McFadyn’s findings by stating it will continue to study the report in order to identify where further improvements can be made despite the fact that they have taken almost no action on the original recommendations for the past three years,” he said.

Mr. Oliphant pointed to the report’s finding that the Canadian military has been strained by the mission in Afghanistan, and said the intensity of the combat operation is taking its toll on front-line soldiers, both in the field and upon their return home.

“This is an issue of leadership. The nature of military culture demands that the government be pro-active in regard to mental health of Canadian soldiers and veterans,” he said, adding that more help is required for veterans making transition to work outside the military, as well as support for care-givers and other family members.

“Veterans need to be tracked in a confidential manner for years following their services since post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other operational stress injuries may manifest itself many years after their period of combat service,” said Mr. Oliphant.

“Canadian veterans have made tremendous sacrifices on our behalf to create a safe and secure world. We need to honour their courage, dedication and duty by ensuring they receive the excellent mental health services they deserve.”

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Contact :

Office of Rob Oliphant
613-992-2855