Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 1410: To ask the Minister for Defence if, in view of the recent ending of an Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúl and an Slua Muirí as distinct elements of the Defence Forces, consideration will be given to the issue of a special service bar to persons serving and former members of both those forces who are already holders of an Bonn Seirbhíse for services in those forces. [40387/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Service medals and bars are issued to members of the Defence Forces as prescribed in Defence Forces regulation A9, new series, and administration instruction Part 19. The military authorities advise that members of the Army reserve, formerly an Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil, and the Naval Service reserve, formerly an Slua Muirí, are awarded an Bonn Seirbhíse, the Service Medal, on completing seven years satisfactory service in recognition of their service and contribution to the Defence Forces and to the State. A bar is added to the medal on completing 12 years satisfactory service and a second bar on completing 21 years satisfactory service.

The military authorities indicate that in their view the existing provisions regarding the award of such medals and bars is sufficient. There are currently no plans to change the relevant regulations to provide for additional medals and-or bars. I believe that the current provisions for the award of medals to such personnel give due recognition to the valuable and valued service of such members.