Former UUP MP appointed Veterans Commissioner for NI

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Right Honourable Brandon Lewis MP has today announced the appointment of Danny Kinahan as the first Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland.

The New Decade, New Approach agreement to restore the Northern Ireland Executive included a UK Government commitment to appoint a Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner to act as an independent point of contact to support and enhance outcomes for veterans in Northern Ireland.

Danny Kinahan is a former Army Officer, who served as Ulster Unionist Party MP for South Antrim from 7 May 2015 - 3 May 2017. He was a member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for six years prior to serving as an MP. He is also the coordinator and co-creator of the Westminster Northern Ireland Veterans’ Support Group and is Deputy Lieutenant for County Antrim.

All appointments are made on merit and with regards to the statutory requirements. Political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity in defined categories to be made public.

Danny Kinahan has declared membership of the Ulster Unionist Party and is currently a district councillor. He intends to stand down from political life prior to taking up the appointment.