Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for giving me the opportunity to raise this very relevant matter. This morning, I am asking the Minister for Defence whether on completion of a military ceremony at the funeral of a member of the Army the Irish flag could be presented to the family of the deceased as a tribute to the service given by the deceased. I believe this would be a suitable acknowledgement of the service given to the State's Defence Forces. Having spoken to many families in Galway and throughout the country who have been in this situation, this is something they would very much appreciate. In Galway city and county I speak to Army families daily and we certainly must consider this. As the Minister of State is aware, this already happens in other countries in Europe and across the world. The flag that would be presented would be cherished, kept safe and respected. It would be passed down through the generations as a reflection of the service given by the deceased member. Our national flag would serve as a symbol to the family and would be very appropriate. I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Brophy, for being in the House and giving of his time to answer the question. All Members of both Houses and people across the country respect the Irish flag to the highest level of nationalism. For a small outlay, the provision of a flag is very worthy and I await his response.