Legion criticizes northern B.C. Veterans Affairs closure

The federal government's decision to close its Veterans Affairs office by the end of this year will mean poorer service for locals who have served in the military, says a spokesman for the Royal Canadian Legion.

An official with Veterans Affairs Canada has confirmed the office, located on the fourth floor of the Toronto Dominion building in downtown Prince George, will be closed when the lease runs out.

The office isamong nine regional officesto be closed across Canada.

"We're definitely not happy about it," said John Scott, service officer at the legion's Branch No. 43.

"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 office's two employees serve the province's entire northern region, not just Prince George.

A government spokesperson said there will be no reduction in service, and veterans will continue to receive home visits, and can call the department and visit its 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 said the legion is willing to provide an office.