Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind the Deputy that it was a decision of the former Government in 2017 to present medals to the people who went through the siege of Jadotville in the Congo. This had been an issue for a long number of years, and it was only right and proper that the Government of the day recognised their bravery. The commitment given at the time, which was for medals to be presented to those involved, was met.

In recent weeks, I have sent significant correspondence to many people regarding this issue. The Chief of Staff has written to some of those who are campaigning for these medals to be awarded. The medal board made its decision having considered and reflected on the issue not once, but twice. I have asked people for further evidence as to why medals should be presented, but I do not believe any has come forward since the medal board made its original decision.

I am delighted to have made the decision. The Deputy stated that a number of people had still not received An Bonn Jadotville. If he is aware of people who were part of that mission but have not received the medal, I would welcome him passing their names on to me to ensure they get their medals. For various reasons, we could not track down a number of people and award them their medals on the day.

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