An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir November 2018 www.dfmagazine.ie 20 | REPORT & PHOTOS BY CPL LEE COYLE T he Irish United Nations Veterans Association's (IUNVA) annual general convention took place over the weekend of 22nd September. This year's conference was hosted by Post 29, Carlow, in the Seven Oaks Hotel in Carlow Town. Delegates from all over the country gathered on the morn- ing of the first day to sign in, began swapping war stories, and renewing friendships. Invited as a VIP guest, Brig Gen Patrick Flynn, GOC 1 Bde, opened the convention. After thanking IUNVA for the invitation, Brig Gen Flynn spoke a little about his military career, and said that he learned most of what he knows about the military from senior soldiers and NCOs. He then spoke about a new veterans' support centre that opened recently in Collins Bks, Cork, and asked for IUNVA's sup- port for the centre. He thanked IUNVA for all the good work they carried out in 2018, and wished the organisation all the best for the future. Next, IUNVA National Chairman Jim Casey, addressed the delegates and thanked Post 29 (Carlow) for all their hard work leading up to the AGC. He thanked all posts for all their good work throughout the year and for the great turnout at all the events held in the last year, and complimented them on the high standard of dress and deportment at those events. As IUNVA President Maj Gen Vincent F Savino (retd) was unable to attend the conference, National Director of Ceremonies, Willie Gilbert, spoke on his behalf, welcoming the delegates and wish- ing them a good day and great evening. National Secretary Charlie Mott was next up, giving his annual report, which included an update of posts across the country and developments that had taken place over the year, such as the use of the RDF building in Portlaoise by Post 27, which they have been given the go-ahead to use for an extended period. Charlie also told the AGC that the current strength of IUNVA stands at 1,149 members across 23 posts. National Welfare Officers Michael Thompson then gave his report, detailing the good work IUNVA carries out helping their own and other veterans. He also briefed the delegates on a mental health service called GROW, and urged them to be aware of people suffering from mental health problems. After the addresses and reports, it was on to the motions. There was healthy debate on some of the motions but all were dealt with in a friendly and professional manner. That evening everyone gathered together for food and music, while more war stories and laughter filled the room. I would like to thank IUNVA executive council for inviting us to their AGC and for being so hospitable; they are the embodiment of true DF spirit and comradeship. If you would like to know more about IUNVA, or wish to be- come a member, please visit their website www.iunva.ie or give them a call on their new automated system on 01 6791262. I R I S H U . N . V ET E R A N S A S S O C .

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