Press Release
Veterans, their families, and local officials joined local MP Don Rusnak last Thursday for the re-opening of the Veterans Affairs office in Thunder Bay.
“I am extremely proud to be re-opening doors that were previously closed to veterans and their families,” said Veteran Affairs minister Kent Hehr, also the associate minister of national defence, who was represented at the ceremony by Rusnak.
“Veterans have selflessly answered the call to serve our country, and now we are answering their call by enhancing financial benefits, restoring and expanding access to critical services, expanding service in Thunder Bay and the territories, and hiring more front-line staff,” he noted.
“This was part of our commitment to Canadians and we stand by this promise,” Hehr added.
“Our government is making the re-opening of Veterans Affairs offices across the country a priority, and I’m proud to see the doors open at the Thunder Bay Veterans Affairs Canada office, where about 1,700 of our veterans and their families will be served,” echoed Employment, Workforce Development and Labour minister Patty Hajdu, the MP for Thunder Bay-Superior North, who also delivered remarks last Thursday.
“They have selflessly answered the call to serve our country, and now we are answering their call by restoring and expanding access to the support they deserve,” she added.
“I am very pleased to be here in Thunder Bay today to officially open the Veterans Affairs Canada office,” said Rusnak.
“This office is important to veterans and their families not only in Thunder Bay but throughout Northwestern Ontario,” he noted.
“This office will provide veterans with restored access to services and benefits when and where they need them.”
The office is located on the first floor of 130 Syndicate Ave. S.
The Thunder Bay office will employ about seven staff, who will serve roughly 1,700 veterans in the area.
Staff at the office will answer questions about VAC services and benefits, arrange pension medical examinations, and assist veterans with completing and submitting applications and receipts.
Veterans also will be able to meet with their case manager.
