MP Kerr Joins Minister Blaney in Encouraging Public Service Hiring of Medically Released Personnel of the Canadian Forces

OTTAWA, Oct. 22, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, today announced that Veterans Affairs Canada has officially asked the Public Service Commission to explore options regarding the priority hiring in the public service of medically released personnel of the Canadian Forces (CF). This initiative will help Canada's Veterans transition into a meaningful career as they move into civilian life.

"Our Government is taking action for Veterans, as part of our cutting red tape initiatives, to ensure they have the access and support they need to continue working within the public service," said Minister Blaney "Veterans and their families have given so much in service to their country, and that service can continue even after their military career."

"Veterans are once again seeing progress and evidence that our Government recognizes their valuable contributions," said MP Kerr. "I am honoured to join Minister Blaney in demonstrating our Government's support for Veterans and their futures."

The current Public Service Employment Regulations, which came into force in 2005, provide a priority entitlement to all medically released men and women in uniform for a period of two years post release.

"Members of the Air Force Association of Canada are encouraged with the work of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, especially the work that responds to the important needs pertaining to the hiring of Veterans in the public service," said Dean Black, Executive Director of the Air Force Association of Canada.

The President of the Public Service Commission has confirmed that it will look into the options regarding the priority hiring in the Public Service of Canadian Forces members released or discharged for medical reasons as the Public Service Commission is responsible for administering and overseeing priority entitlements. 

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468

Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649