Statement by the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs, in response to the 2016 Spring Reports of the Auditor General of Canada

OTTAWA, May 3, 2016 /CNW/ - Following the tabling of the 2016 Spring Reports of the Auditor General of Canada, the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada issued the following statement:

"I want to begin by stating that I accept all of the recommendations in the Auditor General's report relating to Veterans Affairs Canada.

"The Government of Canada is committed to providing our Veterans and their families with the care and support they need to ensure their health and well-being.

"These recommendations will help us to better serve our Veterans, and uphold our obligation to those who have served our country.

"We will act to implement each of these recommendations to make sure the Health Care Benefits Program is efficient and effective for those using it.

"We will also work to improve the delivery system in our department, across the Government, and in partnership with the regulated health professionals who provide direct care to our Veterans.

"Approximately six weeks ago, I requested a departmental review to assess how we provide marijuana for medical purposes as a benefit to Veterans.

"We will use the results of the review, as well as information gathered from our consultations, to provide options which will ensure the ongoing health, safety and well-being of our Veterans. I look forward to providing an update on the review in the coming months.

"I want to thank the Auditor General and his staff for their hard work and dedication to improving our services."

SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada

Media inquiries: Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468