David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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We have had a very good interaction today. I apologise for the fact that more members were not present, but it is on account of the time of year and the electoral cycle. We were anxious to meet the witnesses. I am a former serving member of the Defence Forces Reserve, having served for 23 years, so I have a certain grá for things military and an understanding of what the issues are. ONE and the UN vets provide colour parties for ceremonial occasions, which add to the gravitas of what happens in many areas. I thank them for that and for the work they do with former members.

This is could be one of the last meetings of this committee because an election is coming down the tracks.

Another committee will be formed after the general election but none of us knows whether we will be members; that is dependent on the will of the people. That said, I would invite the witnesses to keep in touch. I am surprised that this is the first time that either organisation has been in the Oireachtas, given the work they are both doing. This is their Parliament and I would invite them to make contact with the chairman and clerk of the next committee and request an invitation to appear before it to make further representations because their work is so very important. If the witnesses make detailed submissions, the committee can formally bring them to the attention of the Minister and the Taoiseach. Some of the information they provided today can also be sent forward, with their permission.

I thank the witnesses for their attendance this morning and wish them, their families and the members of their organisations a very happy Christmas.