McGimpsey Commends Bravery Of Soldiers In Afghanistan

"I am very conscious that the job done by members of our Armed Forces cannot be overstated." said McGimpsey. "Servicemen and women accept conditions that impose a number of limitations on how they live their lives and, as we have seen most recently in their involvement in Afghanistan, they accept without question the risk of harm and injury and the potential consequences of living with disablement or injury.

"It is clear from the continuing reports of losses and injuries sustained by our Armed Forces in Afghanistan that the present generation of servicemen and women deserve our recognition and support.

"And I am particularly mindful of the families of 19 Light Brigade whose loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice."

The Minister continued: "I had the opportunity to visit healthcare reservists in Afghanistan in September 2008. I was struck by the skills and expertise of the forces personnel there, by their commitment and dedication to the job in hand and by the strong sense of togetherness and support for one another.

"It is to the credit of those personnel and their commanders that these qualities are so clearly evident despite the difficult conditions within which they work.

"In Northern Ireland, we are particularly sensitive to the needs of those who suffered injury whilst serving to protect people here from the risks and dangers of terrorism."