Female veterans say Ottawa failing them

Committee report finds government hasn't recognized abuse suffered by women, lack of services

- JOY SPEARCHIEF-MORRIS

Veterans Affairs Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor said ensuring female veterans have "a safe workplace" continues to be a priority for the federal government

Veterans Affairs Canada has failed to properly recognize and provide compensation or rehabilitation for the abuse — including sexual — and discrimination they experienced while in service, female veterans say.

A report tabled by the parliamentary Standing Committee on Veteran Affairs on Wednesday said female veterans feel the department has not taken sufficient account of their needs and concerns.

The report, “Invisible No More. The Experiences of Canadian Women Veterans,” is the largest study of that group ever conducted by the House committee. It includes testimonies from nearly 100 individuals as well as more than 50 briefs and communications. The report makes 42 recommendations.

Retired major Donna Van Leusden Riguidel, a co-founder of Survivor Perspectives Consulting Group, said the report was “shockingly emotional” for female veterans and “a long time in the making.”