Tánaiste Pays Tribute to Defence Forces’ Veterans

The Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD, today (26 August) visited the headquarters of the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (ONE), where he paid tribute to the service provided by Defence Forces’ veterans to the State.

Mr Harris said that he was “delighted to have the opportunity to visit ONE’s facilities in Brú na bhFiann.

“Since its foundation in 1951, ONE has provided invaluable support to thousands of ex-service personnel, notably through the provision of accommodation to homeless veterans in its Veterans’ Homes and the provision of other advice and support to veterans through its nationwide network of Branches and Veterans’ Support Centres.

“On any occasion that I engage with our Defence Forces’ personnel or veterans, I am always struck by the justifiable sense of pride and comradeship that derives from membership of the Defence Forces

ONE and other veterans’ association help to preserve a sense of identity and a sense of belonging, which is unique to those who served their country in the uniform of Óglaigh na hÉireann.

“ONE has forged a strong relationship with the Department of Defence over many years, as reflected in recent increases to the Department's funding to ONE, including a 33 per cent increase this year to €173,000, and we look forward to continuing this strong relationship in the years ahead.

“I am particularly pleased to reiterate the Government’s commitment to the establishment of the Office of Veteran Affairs, on which work is continuing and in respect of which my Department will shortly be meeting with ONE.”