Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Defence if he will support the Irish Defence Veterans Association in 2012-2013. [39254/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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There is a wide range of veterans associations involving serving, retired and ex-Defence Forces personnel. These associations represent various interests at local, regional and national level, including regimental and comrades associations.

There is no impediment to any group of veterans forming associations such as the Irish Defence Forces Veterans Associations, and indeed many do. However, given their number and range it is not possible to support all the various associations which currently exist or those which may be formed in the future.

As a matter of policy, two veteran organisations are formally recognised and receive financial support from my Department, namely, the Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen and Women (O.N.E.) and the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA). It is not planned to extend official recognition beyond these two organisations.