The federal government's decision to close the Veterans Affairs office in Prince George by the end of this year will mean poorer service in this region for those who have served in the Canadian military, says Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 43 service officer John Scott.
"We're definitely not happy about it," said Scott.
A Veterans Affairs official said the office, located on the fourth floor of the Toronto Dominion building downtown, will be closed when the lease runs out because there is a reduced need for walk-in service, which is primarily related to mail drop-off and general inquiries.
"There will be no reduction in service to local veterans and their families," the spokesperson said. "Veterans will continue to receive services and home visits from Veterans Affairs staff. They will also still be able to call the department - where they'll be directed to an employee who will assist them to meet their needs - and visit our website for assistance."
Scott said that won't work for aging veterans who are not very confident and don't like talking on the phone. He noted the two employees at the office serve the province's entire northern region, not just Prince George.
As the Legion's service officer, Scott said he helps veterans with such matters as filling out forms but it's no substitute for Veterans Affairs staff. The Legion is willing to provide an office, he added.
"I did write my MP, I know other people wrote their MPs, and really got no response so I guess it's a done deal," Scott said.
The number of case managers will remain at least one for every 40 veterans.
"The changes we are making will eliminate unnecessary red tape as we continue to deliver better and faster service to veterans and their families," the Veterans Affairs official also said.
The office in Prince George is among nine regional offices to be closed across Canada.
