Mr Robinson said,
“I am glad that the work to appoint a new Commissioner has now completed with today’s announcement of David Johnstone’s appointment. The challenges for Mr Johnstone as Commissioner are clear.
David will have our support and I have full confidence that he will continue to build on the integral work laid by Danny Kinahan and the team of staff in the Commissioner’s Office as he works to address personal and systemic challenges, ensuring veterans in Northern Ireland voices are heard.
In Northern Ireland we have a proud tradition of contributing to the defence of the United Kingdom. We have a large Armed Forces Community. It is estimated there are around 150,000 Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force veterans in Northern Ireland - including approximately 60,000 from the Ulster Defence and Royal Irish Regiments.
Collectively we are immensely proud of our service men and women and recognise the sacrifice they have made for everyone in Northern Ireland.
Many of our veterans feel that the level of practical support for those living in Northern Ireland has lagged behind other parts of the United Kingdom. This is unacceptable and as a Party we fought tooth and nail for the creation of a Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner. We pressed for the creation of this post to ensure veterans here had an independent point of contact and support locally.”