ARDS and North Down Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the Armed Forces community by re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant on Veterans’ Day on Friday, September 18 – exactly 11 years after first signing the agreement in 2015.
The signing ceremony formed part of the council’s annual Veterans’ Day commemorations which also included a parade and musical performance in Conway Square, organised in partnership with the Royal British Legion.
The Covenant was signed on behalf of the council by chief executive Susie McCullough, alongside Assistant Commander Colonel Simon Cassells, 38 (Irish) Brigade.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, along with their families, should be treated with fairness and respect and should not face disadvantage as a result of their service.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Craig Blaney, said: “Ards and North Down has a proud and longstanding connection with the Armed Forces. Our Borough is home to veterans, serving personnel, reservists and military families who have contributed enormously to the safety and security of our nation. Their courage, professionalism and commitment deserve our gratitude and our support.
“We are proud to reaffirm our support of the Armed Forces Covenant, just as we did on this exact date 11 years ago. The Covenant is much more than a signature on a document. It represents an ongoing commitment to ensuring that veterans and military families can access the services, opportunities and support they need.”
A council spokesperson said: “Since originally signing the Armed Forces Community Covenant in 2015, the council has continued to strengthen its support for the Armed Forces community through a range of initiatives, working alongside partners including the Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland and the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. The council also maintains a dedicated Veterans/ Champion role to advocate for veterans and their families and help ensure their needs are recognised and understood.
“As part of its ongoing commitment to recognising the contribution of service personnel, veterans and emergency services employees, the council offers a discounted corporate leisure membership for Blue Light Card holders and military veterans. Further details are available from Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex.”
Following the signing ceremony, guests gathered in Conway Square
for the annual Veterans Day event, where veterans from across the borough were recognised for their service and contribution to the community.
The Mayor also thanked the Royal British Legion for its continuing support of veterans and acknowledged the organisation’s longstanding partnership with the Council. He further expressed appreciation to the veterans who took part in the evening parade and to Ballywalter Flute Band for their performance.
The Armed Forces community includes serving personnel, reservists, veterans and their families.
