RECOGNITION AT LAST FOR WAR VETERANS

24 April 2001

Waimakariri Member of Parliament Clayton Cosgrove is delighted at measures taken by the Government to remedy decades of official indifference to the contribution and needs of our veterans.

"For years there has been slow progress on addressing the needs and concerns of veterans. Now the Government is doing something about that.”

"The announcements by the Government this week recognise the special needs of veterans and restore a sense of fairness," Mr Cosgrove said.

The announcements cover:
- Better health treatment for veterans and their families
- A one-stop-shop service in the Office of Veterans' Affairs for the provision of health and other services to veterans
- Ex gratia payments of $30,000 each to ex-POWs and other internees held by Japan
- New legislation which gives formal recognition to the special status of veterans
- Provision for veterans of working age to be in employment without losing their pensions.

"The government is also consulting on the issue of further medallic recognition to veterans with service since World War Two,”

"What we have done is present a co-ordinated package which gives veterans the treatment and recognition they are entitled to,” Mr Cosgrove said.

Mr Cosgrove is looking forward to listening to the views of his constituents on the Government’s announcement at the Papanui and Rangiora Returned Servicemen’s’ Clubs tomorrow when he will be taking part in their ANZAC Day commemorations.

People who think they may be eligible for the $30,000 payment should contact the Office of Veterans' Affairs, on 0800 4 VETERAN (0800 4 838 372).

ENDS

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