News Release

Bill to Assist Wartime Civilians and Present-day Canadian Forces Members Receives Royal Assent

Ottawa -- Bill C-41, An Act to amend the statute law in relation to veterans' benefits, received Royal Assent today, ensuring improved benefits to members of the Canadian Forces who are injured in the line of duty and to civilians who served overseas in wartime in close support of Canada's armed forces.

"I am delighted this legislation, which in a number of ways improves services and benefits to veterans, civilian groups who also contributed to the war effort, and members of our current armed forces, has received the full support of the House of Commons and the Senate of Canada," noted Veterans Affairs Minister Ron Duhamel. "Once again, all parties recognize those who serve Canada deserve the very best this country can offer to support and recognize them."

Bill C-41 amends the Civilian War-related Benefits Act to provide greater access to veterans' benefits to members of civilian groups with wartime service overseas, notably the Canadian Red Cross, St. John's Ambulance, Newfoundland Overseas Foresters, Canadian Fire Fighters, and pilots who ferried aircraft over the Atlantic. Members of these groups will qualify for veterans' benefits on the same basis as armed forces veterans. The Bill also amends the Pension Act to improve the quality of life of Canadian Forces members by allowing them to collect a disability pension for service-related disabilities while they are still serving. Prior to this legislation they could only collect a disability pension upon their discharge unless their disability was related to service in a Special Duty Area such as a peacekeeping mission. Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police will likewise benefit from this amendment and be able to collect a disability pension while they are still serving with the RCMP.

Persons who think they may benefit from these changes are encouraged to contact their nearest district office of Veterans Affairs Canada for information on how to apply.

Backgrounder -- Bill C-41, Omnibus Veterans' Benefits Legislation

All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca