Author: John

February 26, 2025, Ottawa, ON – Veterans Ombud Colonel (Ret’d) Nishika Jardine released a report today on Additional Dependant Care, a reimbursement mechanism designed to provide relief for additional dependant care costs incurred by Veterans participating in the Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Rehabilitation Program. The report found unfairness in the rules for reimbursement that could result in some Veterans not being afforded the same relief as others.

Additional Dependant Care reimbursement is intended to help Veterans participate fully in their Rehabilitation Program. But the reimbursement rules discriminate between types of rehabilitation services. A Veteran who attends training services can be reimbursed beyond the maximum rate in certain circumstances, but a Veteran who accesses non-training services cannot. This is unfair. No Veteran should have to choose between paying the extra care cost out of pocket or foregoing treatment.

These restrictions, as well as maximum rates set in 2006—unlike other rates that are adjusted for the cost of living—are more likely to affect Veterans with higher dependant care costs, including single parents, women, and those with multiple dependants or dependants with high support needs.

The Veterans Ombud recommends that the Minister of Veterans Affairs resolves this unfairness by amending the Veterans Well-being Regulations to include discretion to exceed maximum rates for clients attending all rehabilitation services. The Veterans Ombud also recommends that the Minister ensures that regulatory provisions for maximum rates do not cause an increased cost burden for Veterans as a result of inflation.

“VAC needs the flexibility to support all Veterans, particularly as family structures evolve alongside societal changes. No Veteran should have to choose between paying the extra care cost out of pocket or foregoing treatment under the VAC Rehabilitation Program.” – Veterans Ombud Colonel (Ret’d) Nishika Jardine

The Office of the Veterans Ombud reviews complaints, and challenges the policies and decisions of Veterans Affairs Canada where we find individual or systemic unfairness. We strive to be an independent and respected voice for fairness and a champion for the well-being of Veterans and their families.

Link to report: https://www.ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/adc_report_en_final.pdf

Media Relations Contact:
Lucille Hodgins
Tel: 613-617-7205
Email: Lucille.hodgins@ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca

COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE

L’OMBUD DES VÉTÉRANS PUBLIE UN RAPPORT SUR LE REMBOURSEMENT DES FRAIS DE GARDE SUPPLÉMENTAIRES POUR PERSONNES À CHARGE

26 février 2025, Ottawa, Ontario – L’ombud des vétérans, la colonel (à la retraite) Nishika Jardine, a publié aujourd’hui un rapport sur le remboursement des frais de garde supplémentaires pour personnes à charge, un mécanisme de remboursement visant à fournir une aide pour les frais de garde supplémentaires des personnes à charge engagés par les vétérans qui participent au Programme de réadaptation d’Anciens Combattants Canada (ACC). Le rapport a constaté une iniquité dans les règles de remboursement qui pourrait faire en sorte que certains vétérans ne bénéficient pas de la même aide que d’autres.

Le remboursement des frais de garde supplémentaires des personnes à charge vise à aider les vétérans à participer pleinement au Programme de réadaptation. Toutefois, les règles de remboursement font une distinction entre les types de services de réadaptation. Un vétéran qui reçoit des services de formation peut être remboursé au delà du taux maximal dans certaines circonstances, mais un vétéran qui reçoit des services autres que la formation ne peut pas. Ce traitement est inéquitable. Aucun vétéran ne devrait avoir à choisir entre payer de sa poche les frais de garde supplémentaires ou renoncer à un traitement.

Ces restrictions, ainsi que les taux maximaux établis en 2006 – alors que d’autres taux sont ajustés en fonction du coût de la vie – sont plus susceptibles de toucher les vétérans qui ont des frais de garde des personnes à charge plus élevés, y compris les parents célibataires, les femmes et les personnes qui ont plusieurs personnes à charge ou des personnes à charge ayant besoin d’un soutien important.

L’ombud des vétérans recommande que le ministre d’Anciens Combattants résolve cette iniquité en modifiant le Règlement sur le bien être des vétérans afin d’inclure le pouvoir discrétionnaire de dépasser les taux maximaux pour les clients qui reçoivent des services de réadaptation de tous types. L’ombud des vétérans recommande également que le ministre s’assure que les dispositions réglementaires concernant les taux maximaux n’entraînent pas un fardeau financier accru pour les vétérans en raison de l’inflation.

« ACC a besoin de flexibilité pour soutenir tous les vétérans, particulièrement dans un contexte où les structures familiales évoluent parallèlement aux changements sociétaux. Aucun vétéran ne devrait avoir à choisir entre payer de sa poche les frais de garde supplémentaires des personnes à charge ou renoncer à un traitement dans le cadre du Programme de réadaptation d’Anciens Combattants Canada. » – L’ombud des vétérans, lae colonelle (à la retraite) Nishika Jardine

Le Bureau de l’ombud des vétérans enquête sur les plaintes et remet en question les politiques et les décisions d’Anciens Combattants Canada lorsque des problèmes d’iniquité individuels ou systémiques sont soulevés. Nous nous efforçons d’être une voix indépendante et respectée pour l’équité et un champion pour le bien être des vétérans et de leur famille.

Lien vers le rapport : https://www.ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/adc_report_fr_final_0.pdf

Media Relations Contact:
Lucille Hodgins
Tel: 613-617-7205
Email: Lucille.hodgins@ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca

A Message from Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones-November 11th
On this solemn day of November 11th, we, the Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones, stand united in remembrance and respect for all who have served and sacrificed in the name of peace and freedom.
We honour the brave souls from all nations and backgrounds who laid down their lives in the World Wars and subsequent military conflicts. Their courage and sacrifice have shaped the world we live in today, and their memory lives on in our hearts and in the freedoms we cherish.
We pay special tribute to our Indigenous brothers and sisters who answered the call of duty, leaving their communities to fight on distant shores. Their service, often overlooked, was marked by exceptional bravery and unwavering commitment to protecting our shared values and lands.
As we mark the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force, we reflect on the contributions of Indigenous aviators who soared through the skies, defending our nation and allies. Their legacy is woven into the fabric of this esteemed institution, and we celebrate their achievements with pride.
We also remember those whose lives were forever altered by the horrors of war – the wounded, the traumatized, and the families left behind. Their ongoing struggles remind us of the true cost of conflict and the importance of supporting our veterans long after the battles have ended.
Today, we renew our commitment to peace, reconciliation, and healing. We call upon all Canadians to join us in honouring the sacrifices of the past and working towards a future where the wounds of history can be mended, and where all nations can coexist in harmony.
Let us stand together, Indigenous, and non-Indigenous alike, in silent gratitude for those who gave all. May their spirit of selflessness and courage inspire us to build a world worthy of their sacrifice.
We will remember them. Nous nous souviendrons d’eux. Kiga mamidonenimigon

Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones Statement on Senator Murray Sinclair’s Legacy
The Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones (AVA) solemnly acknowledges the profound impact and enduring legacy of Senator Murray Sinclair, a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for Indigenous rights and reconciliation in Canada.
Senator Sinclair’s life work embodied the warrior spirit that we, as Indigenous veterans, hold dear. His unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and reconciliation has left an indelible mark on our nation’s conscience and has paved the way for a more equitable future for Indigenous peoples.
As Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Senator Sinclair courageously confronted the painful history of residential schools, giving voice to survivors and illuminating a path toward healing. His 94 Calls to Action serve as a roadmap for reconciliation, challenging all Canadians to participate in the journey toward understanding and respect.
Senator Sinclair’s achievements resonate deeply with our mission at AVA. His work in educating Canadians about Indigenous history and culture aligns with our efforts to honour the contributions of Indigenous veterans and preserve our rich heritage. His advocacy in the Senate for legislative changes mirrors our ongoing fight for recognition and support for Indigenous veterans.
We, the Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones, commit to carrying forward Senator Sinclair’s legacy. We pledge to continue the vital work of reconciliation, to stand firm in the face of injustice, and to strive for a Canada where Indigenous peoples are truly equal partners in Confederation.
Senator Murray Sinclair’s life serves as an inspiration to all Indigenous peoples, reminding us of our resilience, our wisdom, and our capacity to effect change. His words will forever echo in our hearts: “Education is what got us into this mess, and education will get us out of it.”
As we honour Senator Sinclair’s memory, we call upon all Canadians to reflect on his teachings, to embrace the spirit of reconciliation, and to work tirelessly toward a future of mutual respect, understanding, and equality.
May the wisdom, courage, and compassion of Senator Murray Sinclair continue to guide us as we move forward on the path of healing and reconciliation. His legacy lives on in every step we take toward a more just and inclusive Canada

Thursday, November 7th 2024
The Odawa Native Friendship Centre will be hosting a Veterans Feast for all Veterans and current serving members.  You may bring a guest with you.
Event timings as follows.  Please note that you are requested to register…
Date is 7 November 2024
Doors open at 5:30 pm
Timing: 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Registration is so that numbers are  known for the ordering of the food.
Please register via email to: reception@odawa.on.ca

Friday, November 8th 2024
The Odawa Native Friendship Centre is holding a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Confederation Park, Ottawa Ontario.
The Ceremony will commence at 11:00am.  Guests are asked to arrive by 10:45am.  If you plan to lay a wreath, please let the MC know.

(le français suit)

Dear Stakeholders,

Today, I released Service after Service: The National Veterans Employment Strategy. The Government of Canada will work with partners across the government, for profit and not-for-profit organizations to improve Veteran employment opportunities across the country.

We have already started working on initiatives related to our four strategic objectives:

Improving services and expanding programs for Veterans
Creating and recognizing Veteran ready employers
Positioning the public service as a leader for Veteran employment
Building trusted partnerships

Thank you to all who participated in the many consultations over the past two years. This strategy would not have been possible without your valuable feedback.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

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Bonjour,

Aujourd’hui, j’ai donné le coup d’envoi à Servir après le service : La Stratégie nationale d’emploi pour les vétérans et les vétéranes. Le gouvernement du Canada travaillera avec des partenaires du gouvernement ainsi que des organismes à but lucratif et sans but lucratif afin d’améliorer les possibilités d’emploi des vétérans et vétéranes partout au pays.

Nous avons déjà commencé à travailler sur des initiatives liées à nos quatre objectifs stratégiques :

Améliorer les services et élargir les programmes destinés aux vétérans et vétéranes
Créer et reconnaître des employeurs prêts à accueillir des vétérans et vétéranes
Positionner la fonction publique en tant que chef de file pour l’emploi des vétérans et vétéranes
Établir des partenariats de confiance

Merci à toutes les personnes qui ont participé aux nombreuses consultations au cours des deux dernières années. Cette stratégie n’aurait pas été possible sans vos précieux commentaires.

Cordialement,

L’honorable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, C.P., députée

Ministre des Anciens Combattants et ministre associée de la Défense nationale