Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 16 December 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality

Welfare of Ex-Service Personnel: Discussion

9:30 am

Mr. Ollie O'Connor:

In most western jurisdictions, there would be a minister with responsibility for veterans affairs. In America, there are veterans' hospitals, education grants and other supports for veterans. Britain, our nearest neighbour, would have a substantial veterans' policy and would have an Under Secretary of State with responsibility for Veterans Affairs. They work hand in glove with the Royal British Legion and SSAFA, which are part of the decision-making process. Similar organisations like ourselves in Britain would be very much part of the establishment. The Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel Ireland is a long time on the go but is only becoming known.