06/09/2024

NI's Veterans Commissioner Danny Kinahan Resigns

Northern Ireland's Veterans Commissioner Danny Kinahan has resigned.

In a statement he said he "cannot provide the independent voice that veterans require".

He said he stood down from the post following an "open and frank conversation" with Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn.

He continued: "There is a feeling among some veterans in Northern Ireland that they do not enjoy the same protection as their counterparts in Great Britain.

"Veterans in Northern Ireland have particular needs and concerns which need to be addressed by the UK Government, which I have made very clear in our discussions.

"Finally I would like to place on record my gratitude to all those who have placed their trust in me and assisted me with my work over the last four years.
News Image
"I will continue to work in their interests where I can."

Ulster Unionist Party Peer, Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard, expressed serious concerns about his resignation.

Lord Elliott said: "Danny has been a strong advocate for veterans throughout his tenure and is highly respected by the wider veterans community for his work to enhance support across Northern Ireland. On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I sincerely thank Danny for his important contributions.

"However, regarding his resignation, it is deeply troubling that the Commissioner felt he had no choice but to step down. We are particularly concerned, as Danny was exactly what veterans needed - an informed, empathetic champion. Clearly, something has gone wrong and we will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Northern Ireland Office to address the situation."


Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

07 October 2024
Lough Neagh Community Engagement Sessions
A series of community drop-in sessions are being held to provide information about the ongoing efforts to address blue-green algae and improve water quality in Lough Neagh. These sessions will offer the public an opportunity to learn more about the causes and impacts of blue-green algae and the actions being taken to mitigate its effects.
20 October 2023
New Scheme Announced To Improve Veteran Services
A new pilot scheme to improve health and wellbeing services for veterans living in Northern Ireland has been announced by the Office for Veterans' Affairs (OVA).
20 April 2023
New Veterans Commissioner For NI Announced
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, has announced the reappointment of Danny Kinahan as the Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland.
04 October 2024
Bookstart Baby Program Returns To Northern Ireland
Education Minister Paul Givan has expressed his support for the reintroduction of the Bookstart Baby program in Northern Ireland. This program aims to promote early intervention with families and encourage shared reading. The Bookstart Baby program provides packs to babies and young children, fostering a love of reading from a young age.
04 July 2024
Voting Underway Across Northern Ireland
Poll are open across Northern Ireland as part of the UK-wide General Election. A total of 136 candidates are competing across 18 constituencies. 127 of the candidates represent 11 total political parties, with the other 9 standing as independents. Eligible voters can cast their vote until 10pm tonight.