Robin Newton MBE MLA

ROBIN Newton East Belfast DUP MLA has described the actions of the Government as they launch an attempt to deny injured soldiers already agreed compensation for their injuries as weak-willed and accused them of being totally out of touch with the people.

Robin Newton said,

“The Government in taking forward a legal case to seek cut-backs in the compensation awarded to young soldiers sends out completely the wrong message to those who daily risk their lives at the front lines.

Two young men from the east of the city have made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan and this Government’s distasteful action will be resented by all right thinking people. It is disgraceful that the injuries of young service personnel, who put themselves in the firing line for their country, will be quibbled over by those sitting in the safety and comfort of a plush Government office. Put these armchair defence staff into a front-line war zone so they can grasp fully the dangers.

The public are demanding a greater appreciation of the armed forces. The Government’s dishonourable action is completely contrary to the public’s respect for the difficult and dangerous job being done by these brave young men and women.

Those who are injured, and often in pain for the rest of their lives, will feel cheated and believe the compensation system is failing to fully appreciate their wounds.

Defence Secretary, Bob Ainsworth MP, should meet with families of injured service men and women and let him explain face-to-face his plans and reasons for his lack of regard for the sacrifices made and the injuries sustained. Only then will he understand the hurt his action is causing.”