Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have listened to the Deputy's response. It is regrettable that he would refer to a contribution made by me as trash considering that I spent a lifetime believing that the members of our Defence Forces are some of the bravest people and that they defend our country in all circumstances. They defend it on peacekeeping missions and have defended it at home for many years in support of the civil power. Having acknowledged fully many of the concerns the Deputy raised, I believe it is regrettable that he would refer to my contribution or parts of it as trash.

Notwithstanding all the situations I outlined, the matter is receiving further consideration. As I said, the Chief of Staff is currently considering the matter in the context of the award of medals and the possible implications for the medals system. I mentioned that the Secretary General of the Department of Defence is meeting retired Commandant Leo Quinlan to discuss the matter. It is important to realise that action is being taken. On behalf of the Minister, I take this opportunity to recall the valuable contribution made by all who served in the various Irish contingents in the Congo between 1960 and 1964 during the UN peace support mission. Ireland can be justifiably proud of all its brave men and women who have contributed to the cause of peace and security.

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