Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 June 2025
38. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the current measures his Department is taking to support Defence Forces veterans; the further plans his Department is considering in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31261/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that I recognise the outstanding contribution made to the State by our ex-service personnel. In this regard, my Department provides support to two recognised Veterans Associations. These Veterans Associations, which represent all former personnel, are the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann (ONE), the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel.
My officials and I meet regularly with these recognised Veterans Associations, as well as the Association of Retired Commissioned Officers (ARCO), to discuss matters of concern to their members. My Department has entered into Service Level Agreements with IUNVA and ONE, under which an annual grant is paid to both organisations in order to assist with their administrative overheads. IUNVA is paid €40,000 and ONE is paid €173,000. These grants were increased substantially in 2022 and have been increased again in 2025.
As a further means of assistance, since 2021 my Department has also secured total funding of €1,100,000 under the Dormant Accounts Fund to assist both organisations with specific special projects.
In addition to the supports highlighted to the recognised Veterans Associations, the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service also provides limited support to retired members of the Defence Forces on a case-by-case basis, as well as assisting IUNVA and ONE in their work providing advice and support to veterans.
The Deputy may also be aware that the 2025 Programme for Government includes a commitment to establish a dedicated Office of Veterans Affairs, based in the Department of Defence and working across Government. This commitment is currently being progressed and it is intended to establish this office as soon as possible.
