QUESTION PERIOD — Veterans Affairs
Processing of Disability Benefits Applications
May 8, 2024
My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate, Senator Gold.
In the past two years, there has been a 50% increase in denied claims by Veterans Affairs Canada for veterans seeking disability benefits. These Canadians faithfully served King and country and risked their lives and safety in the process. Sadly, this is an ongoing issue that is occurring regardless of the party in power, but you don’t need much common sense to know that this is an issue of respect and livelihood, because many veterans are struggling, working-class people who rely on these benefits to make ends meet.
What will the government do to address the increasing rate of claim denial, often through factors claimants are unable to control themselves, such as access to primary care?
Thank you for your question and also your advocacy on this issue, senator. Indeed, it’s a question of respect, and the government could not agree more. It has made serious investments, as I’ve outlined in this chamber before, but I would never claim that it was enough to close the gap. It will continue to work within its capacity to address this issue so that our veterans can get the support they have earned and deserve.
Thank you. When you take this matter back to the minister and make your inquiries, could you please raise the fact that many of these denials are being reversed by the Veterans Review and Appeal Board appointed by the government, and that this is simply prolonging the process of accessing benefits and making veterans wait even longer?
I’ll certainly add that to my inquiries.
