 |
answer text |
<br /><p>Since the launch of the Armed Forces Covenant in 2011 the Ministry of Defence
has worked closely with Northern Ireland Government Departments, Service charities
and other groups to build on existing measures to support the Armed Forces Community.
In 2013, the Select Committee on Northern Ireland Affairs reported that, less some
specific areas, Covenant measures were being applied in Northern Ireland.</p><br /><p>I
acknowledge that the Armed Forces Covenant does not enjoy the same level of awareness
or appreciation in Northern Ireland as in other parts of the UK. However, I am clear
that every effort is being made to implement the Covenant against the particular nuances
of the Northern Irish political and legal environment. The Ministry of Defence and
other parties work tirelessly to ensure good relationships help develop improved understanding
of specific needs and I have been impressed by the way in which solutions to these
needs are generated in a focussed and professional manner. Such provision is fully
commensurate with the aims and objectives of the Covenant, whether it is branded as
such or not.</p><br /><p>Service personnel in Northern Ireland are well-catered for
under the auspices of the Covenant and are at no particular disadvantage, although
more work is needed to identify the needs of those within the veterans community.
This work is ongoing, well-resourced, and fully recognised as activity provided within
the scope of the Armed Forces Covenant.</p><br /><br />
|
|
