NI Commissioner Urges Veterans to get in Touch
Northern Ireland’s Veterans Commissioner – Danny Kinahan – is urging former service personnel of the British Armed Forces who need help or support to get in touch with him directly.
There are an estimated 150,000 former personnel of the British Army, Royal Air Force, and Royal Navy living in Northern Ireland, in addition there are an estimated 10,000 living in the Republic of Ireland. The NI Veterans Commissioner’s Office (NIVCO) has launched an initiative to reach as many veterans in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as possible. He is enlisting the support of regimental associations, councils, charities and community organisations to get the message out to former members of the armed forces.
The Commissioner stated: “My role is to be a ‘strong voice for veterans’ and I want to ensure that those who have given so much in the service of their country receive the support, help and assistance they deserve. I am honoured to represent and advocate on their behalf and since my appointment I have heard, first-hand, about experiences of military service and the transition back to civilian life.
“I don’t have a database to contact veterans personally, so I am relying on other organisations to help me cascade the information to those who need it. If you are a friend or family member of someone who has served, please know that my office is here to help.”
Many who have left the armed services may not require help – but others do across a number of areas. This might include mental or physical health – or to other matters such as housing and retraining.
Continuing Commissioner Danny Kinahan added: “I want to engage with as many veterans as possible to understand their issues and work with them so they can access the right support as and when they need it.”
The NI Veterans Commissioner’s Office can be contacted by:
Email: commissioner@nivco.co.uk
Telephone: 028 90527734
Twitter: @niveteranscomm
Web: www.nivco.co.uk
Address
NI Veterans Commissioner’s Office
Stormont House
Belfast
BT4 3SH
Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner’s New Crest
On the establishment of the NIVCO it was important to establish a crest that was representative of all elements of the Armed Forces. The striking new crest was unveiled last month.
Danny Kinahan said: “When you look at the crest, you see the crossed swords that represent the Army, the anchor that symbolises the Royal Navy and the eagle for the Royal Air Force.
“The crown represents Her Majesty the Queen, who as Sovereign, is Head of the Armed Forces and the shamrock references the Irish Regiments that serve and have served with great honour and distinction across the world in many conflicts. The poppy flower evokes remembrance and the use of green, blue and red reflects the colours of the Royal Irish Regiment.”
The core message of “A strong voice for NI Veterans” is now embodied within clear and strong.