Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, I wish to state that the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann put their lives on the line every day of every week, 24-7, when they go on peacekeeping duties, be it with UNDOF, UNIFIL or many of the other missions we have scattered across the world. I took a personal interest in this matter when I was appointed Minister of State because I saw the human side of it when I was in opposition and over the past few years. I did not know any of the people personally, so I had no personal attachment in taking a personal interest in this.

This is the first time a unit citation and an insignia have been presented to any members or past members of Óglaigh na hÉireann. When I took a personal interest in this I said that we would have a ceremony in Athlone. I met each of the survivors personally and spoke to them and, contrary to what Deputy Clare Daly said, they were happy to receive the recognition, albeit not a medal, that I had given them. There is a legal position in that there is no provision in the regulations for the Minister to make an award of the military medal for gallantry other than on the recommendation of a military board appointed by the Chief of Staff, nor is there any mechanism for the case to be referred back to a military board for fresh examination. I have-----

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