Written answer
Defence Forces
273. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Defence to provide an update on the work programme of the Office of Veterans Affairs; the progress made to date on the development of a National Veterans Policy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56458/26]
Comment on this
274. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Defence the timeline envisaged for the development and publication of a National Veterans Policy; the stages of consultation planned with veterans' organisations and other stakeholders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56459/26]
Comment on this
I propose to take Question 273 and Question 274 together.
At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that I recognise the outstanding contribution made to the State by our ex-service personnel.
The work of the Office of Veterans Affairs, established by the Government last November, has been focused on researching the development of a National Veterans Policy, while also continuing with its other functions of advocating on behalf of veterans and partnership with the associations.
The OVA's approach to the development of a Veterans' Policy is guided by the need to fully consider all relevant research and evidence, and includes close consultations with the recognised Veteran Associations and other stakeholders. The regular quarterly meetings with the Veteran Associations provide a forum for these discussions. It is anticipated that formal consultations will take place in the autumn and that the Department will develop a draft policy following the consultation process. This approach will help ensure that any future policy is informed by robust evidence and reflects the full range of issues affecting the veteran community.
In this regard, my Department welcomed the recent publication of Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann's (ONE) research report, ‘Veterans of the Defence Forces’. The report is currently being examined by the OVA and represents an important contribution to the research that will inform a National Veterans Policy.
The valuable insights provided by this research into the profile, experiences, and needs of veterans will support the OVA's ongoing work. In parallel, the OVA continues to engage with the Veteran Associations and to work towards ensuring that veterans can access the benefits, services, and supports to which they are entitled.