Flag raised in Mayo in support of Irish Defence Force veterans

The ONE Fuchsia Flag has been raised by the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Michael Smyth, at the front of Áras an Chontae in Castlebar and will fly until October 1 in support of veterans of the Irish Defence Forces.

The ceremony was attended by members of ONE (Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann) Mayo Branch together with the chief executive of Mayo County Council, Kevin Kelly, and director of services Catherine McConnell

The main objective of ONE is to ensure the welfare of ex-service personnel by providing accommodation to homeless, elderly or disabled members in need and other assistance that may be required.

ONE runs the Fuchsia Appeal annually to raise funds for their charitable endeavours, namely the provision of accommodation and other assistance to ex-service personnel in need.

Councillor Smyth, a past Defence Forces Member, stated “As we commemorate those who served their county at home and abroad, it is important to acknowledge the sacrifices made by Irish Defence Forces personnel over its proud history.

"The support generated through the Fuchsia Appeal is vitally important to ONE and their continued support of veterans who have fallen on hard times.”

Although the main drive of the appeal takes place during the month of July, which is the month of the National Day of Commemoration, donations are welcome at any time and may be made at www.one-veterans.org/one-connect-donate/