Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim mo bhuíochas leis an Taoiseach. I acknowledge the support of my colleagues in Galway. Deputy Catherine Connolly raised this in a question to the Minister of State last week. There is full support on this from all Members of the Oireachtas from Galway. The UN military commander in Katanga, Brigadier K. A. S. Raja memorably said that "the Irish troops in Jadotville were magnificent and Commandant Quinlan, the Irish commander, would, in the Indian army, be awarded the highest military award for gallantry ... I believe he could be held as an example to all soldiers". That is an important statement from the UN commander at the time on what Commandant Pat Quinlan achieved that day. I hope the Taoiseach has seen the film on this subject.

I seek a firm commitment from the Taoiseach that he will right a wrong. These people were never officially recognised. I accept that the unit received a citation from the Minister of State, Deputy Kehoe, in Athlone last year, but Commandant Pat Quinlan's memory should be honoured and the medals which he proposed should be given to the soldiers for their bravery and honour. I hope the Taoiseach will return to the House with a positive response after he meets with the Vice Admiral.

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