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<p>The Department welcomed Lord Ashcroft's report on the review of the Armed Forces
transition process. The report made 43 distinct recommendations; many are now in place
either in full or in part. In response to his specific recommendations on an Armed
Forces Champion in Northern Ireland, the Northern Irish Government announced last
year that from April 2015, Local Authorities will nominate both a non-elected official
and a councillor to membership of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association in Northern
Ireland. The latter will also act as a local Veterans Champion.</p><p>In addition,
the relationship between the Northern Ireland Aftercare Service and the Veterans Welfare
Service has been strengthened and close working links developed with The Royal British
Legion, Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association, Combat Stress and key
charities in Northern Ireland.</p>
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