Leader staff

Member of Parliament for Peace River – Westlock, Arnold Viersen has been appointed to the Standing Committee on Veteran Affairs. The Veteran Affairs Committee’s primary responsibility is to examine all matters relating to the mandate, management and operation of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“I am honoured to be appointed to this crucial committee by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre,” said MP Viersen. “The House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs was originally created in 2006 following the unanimous adoption of a motion from the Harper Conservative government.”

Over its history, the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs has undertaken studies on issues related to veterans including:

The creation of a veterans’ ombudsman’s office, delivery of front-line health and wellbeing services for veterans, hiring priorities to certain members and veterans of the Canadian Forces, and supports and services to veterans’ caregivers and families.

“Sadly after 10 years, it is clear that our Veterans are nothing more than an afterthought to this Liberal government,” said MP Viersen. “Common sense Conservatives are the only party standing up for the men and women who fought for our freedoms.

“I am deeply concerned about the growing number of instances of veterans being offered assisted death by Veterans Affairs Canada employees instead of the supports and services they need.

“One of my first priorities will be to initiate a study on mental health and suicide prevention for veterans. Canada’s veterans and their loved ones deserve better.”