Sound Advice

Over the next five years, the number of Canadian Forces clients who receive support from Veterans Affairs Canada will almost double. Many of these clients are young with growing families, and a considerable number suffer from physical, mental or emotional conditions related to their military service in Canada or abroad. Providing them with the benefits and services they need to maintain their quality of life is a priority shared by our Department and the Department of National Defence.

To help meet this responsibility, we regularly seek the advice and guidance of a special group called the Veterans Affairs Canada - Canadian Forces Advisory Council. The Council is chaired by Dr. Peter Neary, a well-known historian and author who is a professor in the Faculty of Social Science at the University of Western Ontario. Several client stakeholder organizations sit on the Council, including those who represent war service Veterans, peacekeeping Veterans and spouses of military members. Council members also include academic and research experts and members of federal government organizations that serve Canadian Forces members.

Over the coming months, we'll be working with the Council to find ways to help Canadian Forces members who have needs and challenges that may involve environmental illness, traditional and non-traditional medication options to treat certain conditions, disability management strategies that incorporate sound medical and occupational practices, plus support options in the areas of income and income replacement, rehabilitation, employment, long-term disability insurance, mental health and family health.