Council Chair hosts a reception for MAPS of West Tyrone

Recently the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry, hosted a reception for MAPS (Military And Police Support) of West Tyrone in recognition of being awarded the 2024 Northern Ireland Veterans Group of the Year.

The following is a copy of the speech made by the Chair at the reception:

Good evening Councillors, ladies and gentlemen,

As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to The Grange, Omagh for this reception in honour of MAPS – Military And Police Support for West Tyrone, the 2024 Northern Ireland Veterans Group of the Year Winners.

MAPS was founded in 2012 as an ex-service charity run by those who have also served in the Community and, I understand, you currently have over 1000 members.

From Clogher to Magheramason, you have been dedicated to identifying, reaching out to and supporting those who have served their country.

MAPS is unique and special because you have the vital expertise and empathy to support ex-colleagues who may unintentionally be forgotten about since their service ended.

You provide support through a drop-in centre, befriending service, complementary therapies, classes, information sessions and coffee mornings to name a few.  Each of these services provides your members with access to valuable information and the opportunity to meet other ex-eservice colleagues who understand life in the military and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.

It is important to provide the right support to those who sacrificed so much to serve and protect their country and communities so they can recover mentally, physically and emotionally.

The Northern Ireland Veterans Awards recognise former veterans who have gone above and beyond and, even in difficult times, excelled in their relevant fields; are role models for future service leaders; and are doing great things in Northern Ireland since their service ended.  The Veterans Group of the Year Award recognises groups who are doing incredible work and making a tangible difference to the lives of veterans across Northern Ireland.

MAPS is the epitome of the ethos behind the awards and, for this reason, you are very worthy winners of the 2024 Veterans Group of the Year Award.

I would like to commend Richard Scott MBE, one of the Founders and current Chairman, and all the members of MAPS for the remarkable work you have done and continue to do to support ex-military personnel.  The services you provide are vital and you have made a significant difference to the lives of so many.  It is very much appreciated by everyone and I am delighted that it has been publicly recognised.

As partners in the Fermanagh and Omagh Community Plan, the Council is committed to ensuring that our people are healthy and well physically, mentally and emotionally and the work by Groups such as MAPS helps us to achieve this.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to thank you for all the work you are doing for Veterans in the West Tyrone area and I am honoured to have hosted this reception for you.

Thank you.