OTTAWA, ONTARIO–(EMWNews – Aug. 8, 2008) – The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today announced the appointment of James MacPhee as Deputy Chair of the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

“It is a pleasure to make this appointment,” said Minister Thompson. “Mr. MacPhee brings a wealth of experience to his new position, and he has been steadfast in his commitment to serving those Canadians who count on the Board for fair and just decisions.”

The Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB) handles the reviews and appeals of disability pension and award decisions for Veterans, Canadian Forces personnel, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and certain civilians and/or their dependants. VRAB also deals with the final appeal on War Veterans Allowance decisions made by Veterans Affairs Canada.

Mr. MacPhee was a Managing Partner of MacPhee & MacAulay Chartered Accountants, and has been a committed community leader, having served on numerous Boards and service organizations.

Mr. MacPhee’s appointment as Deputy Chair is effective Sept. 15, 2008.

Created in 1995, the Veterans Review and Appeal Board is an independent, quasi-judicial agency that reports directly to Parliament through the Minister of Veterans Affairs. There are now 28 full-time members on the Board, including the Chair and Deputy Chair.

To learn more about the First World War and to participate in commemorative events, visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca.