Greens appoint veteran as Veterans Affairs critic

OTTAWA – Green Party Leader Elizabeth May (Saanich-Gulf Islands) has named Tim Thompson (candidate for Fundy Royal) as critic for Veterans Affairs on the party’s Shadow Cabinet. The Shadow Cabinet develops positions based on policies adopted by Green Party membership.

Mr. Thompson spent 13 years in the Navy as part of a cadet instructor cadre. He did three seven-month tours in Afghanistan, working for the Director General of Personnel and Family Support Services. While there, he witnessed first hand the enormous sacrifice made by members of the military and their families.

"We have a responsibility to ensure that we honour the service of Canadian veterans by making sure they receive  the support that they and their families have earned,” said Mr. Thompson. “The brave men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces devote their lives to this country. We must ensure that they are treated with dignity, respect and the care that they deserve. This includes guaranteed access to mental and physical health services and seamless support as they transition to civilian life. I am honoured to be appointed as the Shadow Cabinet Minister of Veterans Affairs for the Green Party of Canada.”

“Tim Thompson’s experience in a war zone provides him with critical insights that will help guide Green policy for veterans,” said Ms. May. “I’m thrilled that he has agreed to be the party’s veteran’s affairs critic. A Green government will step up to provide long overdue comprehensive services for veterans.”

The Green Party values the work and sacrifices of all Canadian Forces and RCMP veterans and active personnel and will ensure that veterans and their families are well cared for. Greens will launch a national re-examination of veterans’ issues in December 2019 based on good-faith engagement with military families and veterans, including issues relating to pensions and benefits.

# # #

For more information or to arrange an interview contact:
Rosie Emery
Press Secretary
613-562-4916x206
rosie.emery@greenparty.ca