War veteran 'keeping $20,000 refunded in error'

A war veteran has decided $20,000 mistakenly given to him by the Government was a gift -- so he is keeping it.

HealthPAC -- a division of the Ministry of Health -- accidentally refunded Colonel John Wright the money last week and now wants it back. However, Col Wright considers the money a "gift" and will not be returning it.

He said he contemplated repaying the money, which would have caused him "financial chaos". However, he said the money would remain in the bank.

"It was a gift. I didn't ask for it to be paid into my account."

Health Ministry's Debbie Chin said the department had apologised to Col Wright about the payment error and would "continue to discuss the situation to resolve it as fairly as possible".

Rotorua RSA president Rolly Rolston said it was "scandalous" the mistake had been made in the first place and the Government should not be asking for it back.

Col Wright had fought in World War 2, paid taxes in New Zealand and should be left in peace to enjoy his retirement, Mr Rolston said.

He has lived in New Zealand for 40 years and receives a British war pension. He has been paying 100 per cent of that pension toward his wife Joy's medical care.

New Zealand war veterans only pay 50 per cent of their pension in the same scenario.

Mrs Wright -- also a war veteran -- had a stroke requiring full-time care about 18 months ago and moved into Rotorua's Redwood Lodge.

HealthPAC decided he should be reimbursed, but then realised that decision was a mistake.

Col Wright was outraged when Ministry of Health and HealthPAC representatives turned up at his Okere Falls home this week to tell him he would have to repay the money and continue paying for his wife's care.

- DAILY POST (ROTORUA)