Minister of Veterans Affairs announces partnership with Royal Canadian Legion to cut red tape for Veterans

Consultations

will begin this summer to simplify application forms for Veterans' services and benefits

OTTAWA, July 8, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today met with Tom Eagles, newly elected Dominion President of the Royal Canadian Legion. The Minister announced a partnering initiative to cut red tape for Veterans by simplifying applications. The Legion, on behalf of the Veterans Consultation Group, will assist Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) by providing feedback on proposed improvements to application packages for the Veterans Independence Program (VIP) and for disability benefits.

The Legion is being engaged to provide input on how to further improve the applications and ensure the process works for Veterans who need it. Veterans Affairs Canada has been working to reorganize and simplify its application packages and will incorporate the feedback into new packages this fall.

Quick Facts

• The Veterans Independence Program helps Veterans remain independent and self-sufficient in their homes and communities. Financial assistance can be provided for services such as grounds maintenance, housekeeping, personal care, as well as access to nutrition and health and support provided by a health professional.
• Disability benefits are financial payments provided to individuals to compensate them for a service-related disability.
• Applications for the Veterans Independence Program (VIP) and disability benefits comprise about 65% of all applications made to Veterans Affairs Canada.

Quote  

"Our government is committed to streamlining the application process at Veterans Affairs Canada and making it easier for Veterans and their families. By cutting red tape, these new application packages will help ensure the timely delivery of services and benefits that Veterans and their families need most. We will continue to work with valued partners such as the Royal Canadian Legion to further improve the way we serve Veterans."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs

Related Products

• Questions on the consultation may be directed to [email protected]

Associated Links

• Veterans Independence Program
• Disability Benefits

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

Barbara Mottram, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468