Irish war veterans are now sleeping on the streets
IT is a source of national shame that Irish war veterans, who know more than most the power of our national flag, have resorted to sleeping on the streets of Dublin in green, white and orange sleeping bags, Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin told the Dáil.
‘ The Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen, ONE, is taking this step to raise awareness of the huge difficulties being faced by former servicemen and servicewomen,’ he said.
‘ONE is seeking funding to ensure it can operate and provide the supports they need. What is being done to secure the issues they have addressed, particularly a military psychiatrist? The Minister of State with responsibility for defence (Paul Kehoe) is in the Chamber. Will he undertake now to meet with ONE members to address their legitimate concerns that I believe would be supported by everybody in this House?’
In response Minister Kehoe said he wished to inform the House that he meets the ONE regularly.
‘I have increased its funding in the past 12 months by 108%, from approximately €40,000 up to €100,000. I have spoken to ONE on this specific issue.
‘ This is an awareness campaign. I am not aware of any veteran who is homeless on the street. I have asked if that is the case, they will get whatever assistance is required,’ he said.
On the military psychiatrist issue, he said he had submitted a proposal to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and he hoped to have that issue concluded shortly.