QUESTION PERIOD — Ministry of Veterans Affairs
Special Duty Service
February 15, 2024
This question is on behalf of my colleague Senator Elizabeth Marshall from Newfoundland and Labrador:
After the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1991, the Canadian Armed Forces joined the largest coalition of power since World War II, entering an active combat zone alongside coalition partners. CAF members played an important role in this conflict, especially in air and naval operations, demonstrating the dedication and distinction of these Canadian troops.
Despite these facts, Veterans Affairs Canada has denied these veterans the respect and compensation they deserve. Although they have served in an active combat zone, your department designates them as “special duty veterans” rather than “wartime veterans” — entitling them to fewer benefits and a lower commemorative standing than other veterans.
Minister, why won’t the government change Persian Gulf veterans’ service status from “special duty” to “wartime service”?
Thanks so much for that question.
I want to be clear: Being designated as “special duty service” does not minimize, in any way, shape or form, the contributions or bravery of those who served in those missions.
However, since I have been minister, we have heard from many individuals asking us to take a look at that particular area. The Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs in the House of Commons has tabled a motion to conduct a study in that area. I have been advised that there is quite a bit of interest in that area, and I think the situation merits a study.
I’m not minimizing their service and duty in any way, but, as you say, it deserves a study.
Also:
Our coalition partners have recognized that Persian Gulf War veterans engaged in wartime service. The Canadian government has refused to follow suit. Why are we not doing what other countries have already done for those who served in the Gulf War?
Once again, that is why we have asked and tasked the Veterans Affairs Committee in the House of Commons to do a deeper dive within this area.
It is also important to keep in mind that it is not just for that conflict. We should be looking at all conflicts so that we don’t find ourselves in this repetitive cycle for future conflicts. I’m looking forward to seeing the work of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, or ACVA, and the recommendations that I’m sure they’ll be bringing forward.
