David Johnstone Named Northern Ireland’s New Veterans Commissioner

David Johnstone has been named the new Northern Ireland veterans commissioner. The Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner’s Office (NIVCO) operates as an independent entity, with the objective of connecting veterans with available support services. His predecessor, former Ulster Unionist MP Danny Kinahan, stepped down from the position in September of this year. Kinahan stated that veterans in Northern Ireland “do not enjoy the same protection as their counterparts in Great Britain”. Mr. Johnstone began his service with the Royal Irish Rangers (Reserve) in 1988. He received his commission from Sandhurst in 1991 and achieved the rank of major before his departure from the Army in 2014. In 2004, he was deployed to Iraq, where he held the role of second in command of his company in Basra. Mr. Johnstone expressed that his appointment as veterans commissioner was an honour and a privilege. He remarked, “This is a very important role and one that can make a positive difference to the lives of veterans and their families.” He added, “I aim to hit the ground running in the new year, by getting out and engaging with the wider veteran community and key partners, alongside the experienced NIVCO team.” Upon announcing Mr. Johnstone’s appointment, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn stated: “His knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our former service personnel and I know he will work tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard.” Benn further affirmed that the government acknowledges the dedicated service of all veterans and is dedicated to assisting the veteran community throughout Northern Ireland and the entire United Kingdom. She concluded, “We will always stand up for those who have served our country.”