News Release
September 12, 2007
Fredericton, N.B. -Today, the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, was joined by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, to announce that Canada's New Government will offer a one-time, tax-free ex gratia payment of $20,000 to eligible recipients connected to the testing of unregistered U.S. military herbicides, including Agent Orange, at CFB Gagetown.
To be eligible for the ex gratia payment, individuals must have been diagnosed with a condition associated with Agent Orange, as determined by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine. Individuals must also have worked or trained at CFB Gagetown, or lived in a community any part of which was within five kilometres of CFB Gagetown when Agent Orange was tested in 1966 and 1967.
"Canada's New Government regrets that so many years passed with this issue not being addressed, and that so many Canadians waited and worried while their questions went unanswered," said Minister Thompson. "Today we are proud to announce a plan that is fair and shows compassion to the thousands of Canadians whose lives have been so affected. We believe that this plan is responsible, transparent, and will help to bring closure to this longstanding issue."
"We may never fully know what happened when Agent Orange was tested at Canadian Forces Base in Gagetown in 1966 and 1967, but our government has always stood firm in doing what is right for Canadians and showing our dedication to Canada's brave men and women in uniform," said Minister MacKay. "Delivering this ex gratia payment demonstrates our commitment to do the right thing."
Those who believe they may be eligible for the ex gratia payment may visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site for more information or call 1-888-854-1803.
The deadline for applications is April 1, 2009.
Backgrounder - Agent Orange Ex Gratia Payment
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Media Enquiries:
Janice Summerby Media Relations Advisor Veterans Affairs Canada (613) 992-7468
Richard Roik Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs 613-996-4649
All Other Enquiries:information@vac-acc.gc.ca
