Dodds launches co-ordinated approach to support past and present members of the armed services

Finance Minister Nigel Dodds today announced the launch of cross-cutting work to support members of the Armed Services in accessing public services.

The Minister said: “Following the launch last year, by the Ministry of Defence, of a new cross-government strategy to improve support to the Armed Forces, past and present, I have today initiated a similar approach across the Northern Ireland departments.”

Minister Dodds outlined that, while the work will in particular consider future initiatives for improving support in areas such as medical care, welfare and accommodation, it will not be restricted to those areas.

The Minister continued: “The purpose of the cross-cutting work is to ensure that members of the Armed Forces, past and present, should not be disadvantaged by the military lifestyle, in terms of accessing the full range of public services to which they are entitled.

“I will also be exploring the scope for special treatment for those who make exceptional sacrifices in the course of duty. I believe such an approach is not only justified, but indeed is an obligation on us.”

The Minister highlighted that successfully delivering on this will require the commitment and participation of a range of departments, both within Northern Ireland and across the UK.

He concluded: “Taking forward this work will require dialogue and co-operation both within Northern Ireland, and between local departments and their counterparts in Whitehall and the other Devolved Administrations. I have no doubt that all organisations involved will work together to ensure we deliver on our obligations.”

Notes to Editors:

“The Nation’s Commitment: Cross-Government Support to our Armed Forces, their Families and Veterans” was presented to Parliament by the Secretary of State for Defence and the Minister of State for the Armed Forces in July 2008. Media enquiries only to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7278 or 028 9052 7375.Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.