The Ulster Unionist Party has warmly welcomed the Assembly’s support for a motion calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to nominate a representative to the UK wide Armed Forces Covenant Reference Group.
Doug Beattie MC MLA said:
“The Ulster Unionist Party brought forward the motion because we recognise the need to deliver for the veterans’ community in Northern Ireland. The lack of a local representative on the UK-wide Armed Forces Covenant Reference Group has been an opportunity missed and we are therefore delighted that the Assembly today supported our motion.
“Many people are unaware that the Veterans community in Northern Ireland is believed to number around 250,000 people. Many of them feel disengaged and in all too any cases, abandoned by society.
“This is not about seeking a position of privilege, rather it is aimed at ensuring that no-one is disadvantaged by their service.
“Having a representative on the Covenant Reference Group will not cost the Executive one penny, but it will ensure that after five years of lagging behind, Northern Ireland will finally have someone on that group who will be responsible for ensuring that the Executive is kept updated on issues relating to the veterans’ community in Northern Ireland
“Just over a week ago Lord Ashcroft produced his second follow-up report on ‘The Veterans’ Transition Review’ which was also passed to the Prime Minister last week.
“Whilst the report commends both Scotland and Wales for the progress they have made, when it comes to Northern Ireland the first paragraph of the report says it all:
“Northern Ireland is the exception to the good progress being made in the remainder of the UK. Indeed, I believe it is fair to say Service Leavers and veterans suffer discrimination in NI as a result of what could be seen as determined efforts to make no provision for them.’
“That situation has to change, and today’s decision by the Assembly to support the Ulster Unionist motion now places the matter very firmly at the door of the Executive. I trust that they will step up to the mark and help ensure that our Veterans receive the support they deserve.”
Ulster Unionist Leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA, said:
“This is a massive personal achievement by Doug Beattie. He is only elected to the Assembly seven months, yet he has today achieved something that previously seemed beyond reach. It builds on the good work he did as a Councillor promoting the Community Covenant and is a testament to his approach to building consensus and addressing areas of tension. There can be no greater proof than today's vote, where Eamonn McCann abstained."