Ex-UUP MP and MLA Danny Kinahan has quit as Northern Ireland’s Veterans Commissioner after four years in the role following a “frank conversation” with the Secretary of State.
The former North Antrim representative, who previously served in the military, confirmed on Thursday evening that he has resigned from the position he was appointed to in September 2020.
“Following an open and frank conversation with the Secretary of State, I have sadly concluded that I cannot provide the independent voice that veterans require,” he added.
“There is a feeling among some veterans in Northern Ireland that they have been forgotten and that they do not enjoy the same protections as their counterparts in Great Britain.
Danny Kinahan (@DdeBK) has been a gallant advocate for Veterans. Regarded widely for his wise and tenacious counsel, his tenure shouldn’t have ended like this. He should hold his head high. https://t.co/PKTPSHSSzz
— Gavin Robinson (@GRobinsonDUP) September 5, 2024
“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.
“I will continue to work in their interests where I can.”
The announcement was quickly followed by a statement from NI Secretary Hilary Benn.
“I would like to thank Danny Kinahan for his dedicated work on behalf of veterans and families living in Northern Ireland,” he said.
“Over the last four years, he has worked on a range of important issues that affect veterans in everyday life, including health, housing and welfare and we will continue to engage with him on these issues.
“We are committed to continuing to support veterans in Northern Ireland through the Veterans Welfare Service NI and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.”
DUP leader Gavin Robinson took to social media to hail Mr Kinahan as “a gallant advocate for veterans” and said he his “regarded widely for his wise and tenacious counsel”.
“His tenure shouldn’t have ended like this,” the East Belfast MP added.
“He should hold his head high.”