Welcome Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs

The Honourable Greg Thompson is the new Minister for Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). Thompson was first elected to the House of Commons in 1988 and again in 1997, 2000, 2004, and 2006. His riding of New Brunswick Southwest includes the town of Gagetown and 90% of CFB Gagetown training area, but not the base itself. His son is a Veteran of the Gulf War.

Q. How do you feel about being appointed the Minister of Veterans Affairs?

A. When the new government was sworn in, it really kind of settled in on me, that this was a peaceful transition of government. It was done in a seamless fashion, without gunshots, without violence. Ours is really one of the purest democracies in the world. When I think of myself representing those men and women who made that possible, it's quite humbling. I feel blessed to be given this responsibility.

Q. What are the top most pressing issues you want to deal with?

A. Number one is the implementation of the new Charter. It was passed by all parties with an implementation date of April 1. I feel very good about all the work that has been done by the Veterans' groups, and by the Veterans. This is truly a top priority.

Agent Orange is a huge issue for the men and women of Canadian Forces Base Gagetown and one we're grappling with. Some of our soldiers and civilians of that time worked in probably the worst workplace environment you can imagine. So that's an issue we are dedicated to resolving. Again the Department is well on its way to working out a plan. A Bill of Rights for our Veterans is something we're already working on as well.

Q. What do you want Veterans to know about you?

A. I'm totally committed to our clients and to providing them with the best service that we possibly can. I'm here to listen and learn because I'm new on this job. I'll need advice from them, but I'm a quick learner and I think I've demonstrated the ability to work with people. It's not like you'll be talking to a Minister who thinks he knows it all...because I definitely don't.