Cuts Hurt Veterans, Not Conservatives: Why We’re Fighting Back
On November 12, Catherine Ford published a column questioning whether Conservatives—and I personally—are committed to supporting Canada’s veterans beyond Remembrance Day. While I agree with her that our obligation to veterans does not end on November 11, I strongly disagree with her assertion that Conservatives have been silent on this issue.
In this response, I outline the actions I have taken and continue to take to ensure veterans receive the resources and dignity they deserve—not just words, but real support.
Catherine Ford is right about one thing: our obligation to veterans does not end on November 11. Where I disagree is her accusation that Conservatives, or I, are silent on this issue.
I have spoken repeatedly—in the House of Commons and in public—about the need to honour veterans not just with words, but with action. I have supported measures to improve housing, mental health services, and timely access to benefits for those who served. Veterans should never have to turn to food banks. I have been quite vocal about the cost-of-living increases caused by this Liberal government’s inflationary policies, and I have actively worked with groups such as Homes for Heroes who build accessible housing for veterans. Cost of living increases affect all facets of our veterans’ needs.
What Ms. Ford does not mention is that this Liberal government has cut funding again to Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)—reductions that directly impact housing programs and frontline services. My Conservative colleagues and I have vocally opposed these cuts. Remaining mute on these Liberal cuts to veterans’ services is consistent with her criticism of her Opposition Member of Parliament. Perhaps instead, Ms. Ford could join us in focusing on opposing these cuts, and aim her critiques at other Liberals, so that we can restore services funding to Canada’s veterans.
Should Ms. Ford wish to join me in meeting with veterans and the organizations that work to support them in their post-service lives, I’m sure many of Canada’s finest servicemen and women would be pleased to meet her.
Honouring veterans means ensuring they have the resources and dignity they deserve. I will continue to press the government to reverse these harmful reductions and uphold Canada’s lifelong responsibility to its veterans.
Remembrance Day is not just about wearing a poppy—it’s about committing to real support for those who sacrificed for our freedom. That is what I stand for, and that is what I will keep fighting for in Parliament and here in Calgary Centre. I invite Ms. Ford to join me and support that work.
Greg McLean
Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre
Related material