Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am happy to hear the Deputy's proposals.

In regard to some of the services to which he referred, including housing, social welfare supports and a range of health services, it is important to note that they are provided by other Departments and other agencies. They could not and never have been replicated by the Department of Defence. I assure the Deputy, however, that ONE will continue to be supported. I greatly value and appreciate the work it has done in assisting individuals who have served with distinction in our Defence Forces, some of whom have since fallen on hard times.

Apart from ONE, there are several other organisations offering support to veterans. In fact, it seems that a new one is posited at least once a year. It simply is not possible for the Department to provide funding to all of them. It is certainly my intention, however, that funding for those organisations currently in receipt of it will continue.

See this speech in context