Media Advisory - Kelowna event will celebrate veterans and fight for services

OTTAWA, July 6, 2015 /CNW/ - In recognition of the unique sacrifices and struggles that our brave women and men are still facing, the Union of Veterans' Affairs Employees and The Public Service Alliance of Canada – BC Region invite all Canadian Armed Forces members, still serving or released, reservist or regular force, RCMP and their families and supporters to a free BBQ and family fun day. 

In 2012, the federal government began cutting jobs and spending at Veterans' Affairs Canada.  The cuts came after repeated warnings from senior departmental officials who understood the devastating effect staffing and budgetary cuts of this magnitude would have on such a small but vital department. 

For Kelowna, the culmination of these cuts was the closure of an entire District Office. This office closure has created large gaps in an already gaping system and when combined with the widespread staffing cuts, the department no longer appears to be in a position to fulfill its mandated obligations. 

Staffing cuts to strictly frontline positions at Veterans Affairs have reached 28%, while veterans' situations have become more complex. 

"This recipe for disaster is currently leaving our heroes in need. They are not getting the help they need," says Carl Gannon, President of UVAE.  "We stand with our members who are struggling to help veterans with limited resources at their disposal. Canada's heroes deserve better."

Who:	Union of Veterans' Affairs Employees and The Public Service Alliance of Canada's BC Region
What:	Free BBQ and Family Fun Day, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Bouncy Castle
When:	Saturday, July 11, 2015,   11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Where:	North Field of City Park

The Union of Veterans' Affairs Employees represents the vast majority of Veterans' Affairs Canada employees. These workers are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the heroes they serve and asks the government to please provide the resources needed to do their jobs effectively. UVAE is a component of the Public Service Alliance of Canada.

For more information on our campaign to re-open Veterans Affairs offices: psacunion.ca/veterans

SOURCE Union of Veterans Affairs Employees, PSAC

For further information: Media requests: Carl Gannon, 613-560-5460 or [email protected]