OTTAWA, ON, October 30, 2003 - On October 23, 2003, Cliff Chadderton, Chairman of the 47-member National Council of Veteran Associations, asked for the resignation of The Honourable Dr Rey Pagtakhan as Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada.

It would appear now that the situation is resolved and Mr. Chadderton has written to the Minister concerning the matter. The letter follows:

October 30, 2003

Minister:

This has further reference to my letter to you of earlier today.

In view of the unanimous support of the House of Commons, I wish to express our gratitude to you.

It goes without saying that we have no reason now to ask for your resignation and we offer you full support in the good work you are doing for veterans and their dependants.

Yours sincerely,

H. Clifford Chadderton, CC, O.Ont., OStJ, CLJ, CAE, DCL, LLD
Chairman