Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy mentioned the Indian Brigadier's comments on the bravery of the Irish soldiers. I often mention the fact that Robert E. Lee said the same about General Meagher's regiment in the American Civil War, from which came the description the "fighting Irish". The Deputy raised an interesting point when he said it is not known why medals were not awarded and asked the reason for that. That is an issue we must examine.

These men fought in this incident. They showed exceptional bravery and courage. Some have not been awarded medals. The actions of Commandant Quinlan, to whom the Deputy specifically referred, saved the lives of other people. I will have that looked at on behalf of all those in Galway, but particularly on behalf of the soldiers and their next of kin and we can reflect on this. It was not an easy time and, no more than many of their predecessors, they showed exceptional courage in the face of enemy fire.

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