About the Veterans Ombudsman

The Veterans Ombudsman works toward ensuring that the sacrifices of Canada's Veterans and their families are recognized through the provision of services, benefits, and support in a fair, accessible, and timely manner. The Ombudsman plays an important role in raising awareness of the needs and concerns of Veterans and their families.

The Ombudsman is an impartial and independent officer, reporting directly to the Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada. This independence is essential to ensure that our commitment to stakeholders is honored.

As an independent voice, the Ombudsman works to ensure the fair treatment of Veterans, their representatives, and their families – our Stakeholders.

Authority of the Veterans Ombudsman

The mandate of the Ombudsman is found in the Order in Council P.C. 2007-530, dated 15 October 2007.

The mandate of the Ombudsman shall be:

• to review and address complaints by clients and their representatives arising from the application of the provisions of the Veterans Bill of Rights; 
• to identify and review emerging and systemic issues related to programs and services provided or administered by VAC or by third parties on VAC's behalf that impact negatively on clients;
• to review and address complaints by VAC clients and their representatives related to programs and services provided or administered by the VAC or by third parties on the Department's behalf, including individual decisions related to the programs and services for which there is no right of appeal to the (Veterans Review and Appeal) Board; 
• to review systemic issues related to the (Veterans Review and Appeal) Board; and 
• to facilitate access by stakeholders to programs and services by providing them with information and referrals.

For more information about the authority of the Office, click here to read the Prime Minister's Speech (Opens in a new window).