Compensate Vietnam Veterans Says Nz First

New Zealand First veterans’ affairs spokesperson Bill Gudgeon is urging the Government to pay compensation to Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange.

Mr Gudgeon’s comments follow confirmation that New Plymouth residents living close to an herbicide plant have high levels of a highly toxic dioxin and have suffered the same symptoms as Vietnam veterans.

“The results have justified the concerns of Paritutu residents, who have long claimed dioxin contamination caused illness and high numbers of birth deformities in the area.

“These findings make it imperative that the Government recognise the impact Agent Orange has had on veterans and their offspring,” Mr Gudgeon said.

“Evidence of the adverse health effects of dioxin contamination is very clear, yet the Government continues to debate whether compensation should be paid to Vietnam veterans.

“If the Government is considering taking legal action against Dow AgroSciences for the harm it has caused New Plymouth residents, it must also commit itself to making sure Vietnam veterans receive the same kind of recognition,” said Mr Gudgeon.

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