Written answers

Tuesday, 28 March 2006

Department of Defence

Defence Forces Investigations

11:00 pm

Photo of Róisín ShortallRóisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 63: To ask the Minister for Defence if he will consider an inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied); his views on whether there is a basis to reopen this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11783/06]

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised by the military authorities that on 15 September 1961, Trooper Patrick Mullins and Corporal Michael Nolan were killed in action in the Congo when their armoured vehicle was hit by anti-tank fire from armed elements. While the remains of Corporal Nolan were recovered, those of Trooper Mullins were not. An investigation into Trooper Mullins's death by the military authorities at the time concluded on 29 January 1962, that he was killed in action at Ave Du Cuivre, Lubumbashi, Elisabethville, Katanga in the Republic of the Congo as a result of the hostile action. Trooper Mullins was posthumously awarded An Réalt Mileata, the military star.

Given the remove of 45 years since the incident, it is difficult to anticipate whether a re-opening of the case would yield any information not already known. However, I will ask the military authorities to further consider the matter and provide me with a report.

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