Not Even An Apology?
New Zealand First Veterans’ Affairs spokesperson Bill Gudgeon says he’s bitterly disappointed that the Government is
refusing to acknowledge the extent of harm caused to Vietnam Veterans by exposure to Agent Orange.
“The Government’s refusal to acknowledge irrefutable evidence that New Zealand troops were exposed to the aerial
spraying of the defoliant, and that this exposure has been linked to a range of health problems, is insulting to the
former soldiers,” said Mr Gudgeon.
“New Zealand First is adamant that an apology must be given to our former servicemen and compensation of some form be
paid.
“The debate has gone on for far too long, and the after effects have not only affected veterans but also their families.
“The Government must take responsibility and accept officially once and for all that these Vietnam veterans deserve
better treatment,” concluded Mr Gudgeon.