John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Campbell and Mr. Brennan for their opening statements and for coming before the committee this afternoon. The two statements were excellent and very informative but also very disappointing. I concur with some of the sentiments the Chairperson has expressed with regard to the excellent work the witnesses have done for the State over many years both as serving members of our forces and through their veterans' organisations. It is disappointing to see how low the level of funding is and that a request for a small increase, up to €50,000, has fallen on deaf ears. I did not see any specific mention of funding for the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel, ONE, so I am not sure how much State funding it gets annually. Perhaps Mr. Campbell could outline that.

I also concur with regard to the veterans strategy. That is key, as is the proposed office of veterans' affairs. I know that request has been made since 2017. Will the witnesses outline what engagement has taken place with the Ministers and the Department? What kind of feedback has there been?

I hear what Mr. Campbell is saying. Obviously, everything needs to be based on evidence. We need the data and the information. That is crucial to developing a plan and a strategy. I hear what he is saying with regard to accommodation for veterans who are homeless. His organisation estimates that there is a need for 60 beds. Will he elaborate further on that? I also note that he said it is hoped to open six additional beds in Cork next year. Will he give us a little bit more information on that? When exactly will they be opened?

I will home in on the issue of transitional supports. From my engagement with members of the Defence Forces, I know they feel there is a vacuum in that regard. The current system is totally inadequate. It does not enhance or develop the skills members have gained while in the Defence Forces or prepare them for the transition to civilian life. I have always called for a career guidance position to be created in that regard. I note that both organisations are calling for transitional supports to be put in place. Will they paint a picture as to how they see that role and how it would work? That is it for now. I may have some supplementary questions. I commend the work both organisations are doing and thank them both for their continued service to the State.