Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

I thank the Minister for that reply. In his last appearance in the Dáil, he mentioned that he intended to find a suitable event to honour both men and I welcome the decision to mark the occasion at an overseas function at the end of April at Cathal Brugha Barracks. Could the Minister expand on that?

Would the Minister reconsider awarding the medal to the two survivors? As the Minister acknowledged, they endured and survived an horrendous experience and there is no question about their courage and commitment in such circumstances. Both of them would like a medal and Joe Fitzpatrick believes nothing less would be adequate.

The military archives indicate an inaccurate version of the manner of Trooper Browne's death. Has the history of his unit been changed to reflect Colonel Behan's report?

Deputy Finian McGrath mentioned meeting the two men but Tom Kenny does not want to meet anyone at this time. Joe Fitzpatrick, however, is anxious to meet the Minister.

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