Raison d’être
Canada’s development as an independent country with a unique identity stems partly from its achievements in times of war. Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) exists to assist and help those whose courageous efforts gave us this legacy and contributed to our growth as a nation.
Mandate
Canada’s development as an independent country with a unique identity stems in no small measure from its achievements in times of war. A good part of our modern identity is also associated with pride in Canada’s enviable peacekeeping record. But Canada’s contribution to global peace and security, both as ally and peacekeeping partner, has come at a heavy price in terms of lives sacrificed, health forfeited and hopes unfulfilled.
The Department exists to repay the nation’s debt of gratitude toward those whose courageous efforts have given us this legacy, and have contributed to our growth as a nation.
VAC’s mandate stems from laws and regulations. Among the more significant is the Department of Veterans Affairs Act, which charges the Minister of Veterans Affairs with the following responsibilities:
“...the care, treatment, or re-establishment in civil life of any person who served in the Canadian Forces or merchant navy or in the naval, army or air forces or merchant navies of Her Majesty, of any person who has otherwise engaged in pursuits relating to war, and of any other person designated ... and the care of the dependants or survivors of any person referred to ...”
The Department meets its responsibilities through a variety of programs. These include disability benefits, Veterans allowances, pension advocacy, health care and commemoration. They provide compensation for hardships arising from disabilities and lost economic opportunities, innovative health and social services, professional legal assistance and recognition of the achievements and sacrifices of Canadians during periods of war and conflict.
VAC provides services to a highly diverse clientele which reflects the remarkable breadth of Canada’s contributions to world peace. Our clients include:
Veterans:
- Armed Forces and Merchant Navy Veterans who served during the First World War, Second World War or Korean War;
- Former and, in certain cases, current members of the Canadian Armed Forces, including those who served in Special Duty Areas and in peacekeeping; and
- Allied Veterans who lived in Canada prior to periods of war.
Other Clients:
- Certain civilians who are entitled to benefits because of their war time services;
- Former and, in certain cases, serving members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; and
- Survivors and dependants of the foregoing groups.
In addition to serving these clients, VAC receives many inquiries from members of the public. We are proud to assist those who approach the Department with requests for information on our programs, services and activities.
VAC’s Commemoration Program is designed to honour all those who served Canada in the cause of peace, while reaching an audience that includes the entire Canadian population as well as the world community.
For more general information about the department, see the “Supplementary information” section of this report. For more information on the department’s organizational mandate letter commitments, see the Minister’s mandate letter.
Veterans Ombudsman
As an impartial and independent officer, the Veterans Ombudsman also reports directly to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and works to ensure that Veterans, their representatives and their families are treated fairly.