Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the (1) government of Ireland, and (2) political parties in Northern Ireland about the commitments for the Armed Forces and veterans contained in New Decade, New Approach, published on 9 January.

The commitments in New Decade, New Approach were agreed by all the NI political parties as well as the UK and Irish Governments. The Northern Ireland Office has been working with the Ministry of Defence and senior officials in the departments of Health, Communities and Education to make progress on Armed Forces Covenant legislation. Work is also underway with the Office of Veterans Affairs and veterans’ organisations in Northern Ireland to establish an NI Veterans Commissioner and carry out a review of the veterans’ Aftercare Service.

As these are domestic commitments to be delivered by the UK Government, discussions with the Irish Government are not necessary. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland will continue to work with the First Minister and deputy First Minister to implement New Decade, New Approach. As part of this he will update them on the progress that is being made on the Government’s commitments and seek their support in implementing an effective policy that works for all stakeholders.