Introducing the New Minister of Veterans Affairs

On January 15, 2002, Prime Minister Jean Chrétien appointed a new Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan.

Minister Pagtakhan, who is the Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North-St. Paul, Manitoba, brings a great deal of skill and experience to the Veterans Affairs portfolio. He is a medical doctor and professor who was first elected to the House of Commons in November 1988. Since then, he has served Canadians in many capacities, most recently as Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific). Prior to that, Minister Pagtakhan was Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister. He also has chaired Standing Committees dealing with matters concerning human rights and persons with disabilities. He was the Parliamentary Advisor to the Canadian Delegation at the 1992 World Health Assembly in Geneva and Advisor to the Minister of Health on the Manitoba First Nations Working Group on Health.

Minister Pagtakhan graduated in medicine from the University of the Philippines. He holds a Master of Science degree from the University of Manitoba and, prior to his political career, was a member of that university's Faculty of Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians.

"Over the years, I have had many opportunities to observe the tremendous work that Veterans Affairs Canada does on behalf of veterans, peacekeepers and their families. I was only a child when the Second World War was fought on so many fronts, including the Philippines, my birth country. Like so many people around the world, I witnessed the destruction, I felt the sorrow and I rejoiced with my family at the heroic efforts of the Allied Forces to preserve world democracy and peace. I also remember the day in 1968 when my wife and I immigrated to Canada, filled with hope for a new life, in a new land, where peace and freedom are the cherished legacy of the veterans and peacekeepers who have served this country so honourably over so many decades. It touches me deeply that I now have the opportunity to serve those who have served us so well."

Minister Pagtakhan replaces the Honourable Ron J. Duhamel, who has been appointed to the Senate. We Salute! Minister Pagtakhan as he embraces the responsibilities of his new portfolio and we sincerely thank Senator Duhamel for his leadership and dedication in serving Canada's veteran community.

Honourable Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan

Born: Manila, Philippines, January 7, 1935.
Profession: Medical doctor and professor.
Family Status: Married, 1964. Four children and one very precious granddaughter.
Special Interests: Medicine, human rights, social justice, education, youth, reading and music.