Better funeral coverage demanded for veterans

Liberal Charlottetown MP Sean Casey is pressing the federal government to increase funding for the funerals of veterans of past wars.

Casey told Parliament the families of current Forces members are given $13,000 to cover funeral costs while veterans of the Second World War or Korean War only receive $3,600.

"Our vets have done their job. They served and defended Canada. Why won't this minister do his, and fix this situation now?" said Casey.

Veterans Affairs Minister Steven Blaney responded that funeral costs for older veterans are handled by the Last Post Fund, and not directly by his department.

The Last Post Fund is a non-profit organization that administers funeral funding on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada, as well as operating several other programs to benefit veterans. The fund is provided grants by the federal government, and receives private donations.