Minister Julian Fantino and Minister Bal Gosal Build Ties with Brampton Veterans

BRAMPTON, ON, Sept. 9, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Canada's new Minister of Veterans Affairs, and the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport) and Member of Parliament for Bramalea-Gore-Malton, today met with Veterans and community members in Brampton, Ontario. The ministers took the opportunity, both through one-on-one discussions and at a roundtable meeting, to gather perspectives and share views on items of interest to Veterans in the community.

"Our Government recognizes the great courage and sacrifices demanded of the men and women serving on the front lines defending the values that we as Canadians hold dear," said Minister Fantino. "That is why I feel so honoured to be serving as Minister of Veterans Affairs, and why I share and appreciate Minister Gosal's support and commitment to Veterans and their families. I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to spend time with him and the people of Brampton, and to work together toward our common goal of providing the best care possible to Canada's Veterans and their families."

"Canada's Veterans have achieved great things in the name of our nation," said Minister Gosal. "Through their service in uniform, they have defended the values and principles that Canadian communities—places like our own Brampton—hold so very dear. It was a true pleasure for Minister Fantino and me to meet with some of them today, to listen to their experiences and to share our ideas for the future."

In an effort to learn more about the issues that matter most to Canada's Veterans, Minister Fantino has been meeting Veterans at home—in their own communities—in places like Winnipeg, London, Charlottetown, and across the greater Toronto area. Minister Fantino will continue to hold meetings with various Veterans' groups to seek feedback on the programs and services available to Veterans.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran-Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to defend the Republic of Korea and uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada