Minister Blaney Releases Scientific Advisory Committee Report on Depleted Uranium

OTTAWA, Feb. 6, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today released a report by the Scientific Advisory Committee on Veterans' Health on the issue of depleted uranium titled: Depleted Uranium and Canadian Veterans: A Review of Potential Exposure and Health Effects. The report addresses the subject of the potential exposure of Canadian soldiers to levels of depleted uranium that could be harmful to their health and the overall potential health effects of depleted uranium exposure.

"As some Canadian Veterans continue to be concerned about this issue, I asked the Scientific Advisory Committee on Veterans' Health to look at the scientific literature and assess the information available on the effects of exposure to depleted uranium," said Minister Blaney. "I wish to thank the Committee for this sound and in-depth report, and the members for their continued commitment to examining issues of concern to Canadian Veterans."

Over the past year, the Committee completed a thorough review of the international scientific literature, and listened to expert witnesses and Veterans on this topic. The report was independently reviewed and validated by international experts.

The Scientific Advisory Committee on Veterans' Health is an independent committee that comprises five experts with collective expertise in scientific, medical and military matters. Two of the members are Veterans, including the Committee Chairman, Major-General (ret'd) Pierre Morisset, MD.

"We are not suggesting that these concerned Veterans do not have health problems," said Dr. Morisset. "However, we firmly believe that whatever health problems they do have are unlikely related to depleted uranium."

"It is imperative that our approach to Veterans' concerns be based on science to ensure our Veterans are receiving the best and most appropriate support and treatment," said Minister Blaney. "The work of these experts will add another layer of assurance that the Government of Canada is using the most up-to-date research and analysis in considering Veterans' health issues."

To read the report Depleted Uranium and Canadian Veterans or for information on research activities, benefits, services and programs at Veterans Affairs Canada, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada