Defence Forces veterans marked two years of their ONE support centre in Carrick-on-Suir

The South Tipperary Branch of the Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen and Women celebrated two years of its veterans support centre in Carrick-on-Suir with a barbecue social afternoon for members and a splendid social afternoon.

The centre is located in part of the former St Nicholas & Faugheen Parish Parochial House at Castle Street in Carrick.

It is open every Thursday from 2pm-4pm for an informal ‘drop in’ afternoon for all veteran members and their families where they can enjoy tea and a chat.

These drop-in afternoons are an opportunity for ex-servicemen and women to connect with each other, reminisce, enjoy some banter and share stories.

Veterans Support Officer Audra Larkin, who is a trained counsellor, meets with ONE members requiring support and guidance at the centre on Wednesdays from 2pm to 4pm. Appointments with her can be made through the ONE website.

ONE Welfare Officer Denis Larkin said the South Tipperary ONE Branch sincerely thank Fr Paul Waldron for securing the premises two years ago for them in Carrick-on-Suir offering their members and families a spacious and private facility to meet in, celebrate events and enjoy the house’s peaceful beautiful garden space.

South Tipperary ONE Branch’s annual Sleep Out fundraiser will take place in Waterford City before Christmas to highlight the plight of homeless Defence Forces veterans.

There are four ONE homes in Cobh, Dublin, Athlone and Letterkenny that accommodate homeless veterans providing them with their own room and showering facilities. Two new homes are set to open in Cork and Limerick in early 2026.

There are currently 54 Defence Forces veterans supported in these residential homes who otherwise would be homeless.

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