Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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113. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the fact that a large number of members of An Garda Síochána and the Irish Prison Service served during the emergencies that had been declared as a result of the period here known as the Troubles, maintaining the peace in this State, a number of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, comprising some nine members of An Garda Síochána and one member of the Irish Prison Service, if consideration will be given to awarding a service medal to those who gave service to the State during that time, from 1968 to 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15006/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Scott Medal is the highest award An Garda Síochána can bestow on a Garda member. It is awarded where a member has risked their life in the execution of duty. To date (since 1923) there have been 414 Scott Medals Awarded for bravery. The Scott medal is awarded based on a recommendation made to the Garda Commissioner and it is a matter for her in the first instance.

The Prison Service recognises acts of bravery, outstanding heroism or merit which have been performed by staff of the Irish Prison Service. Awards recognise an exceptional act by a member of staff and the awarding of same is determined by the Irish Prison Service Merit Award committee. There are two awards which may be presented depending on the degree of bravery, heroism or merit and they include:

- The Stack Medal

- The Distinguished Service Medal

- Special commendation

The Stack Medal, is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a member of staff of the Irish Prison Service. It is presented by the serving Minister for Justice and Equality and is made in recognition of an act of exceptional personal bravery by the nominee. The Stack Medal was posthumously awarded to the late Chief officer Brian Stack (RIP) on 3^rdMay 2013 by the then Minister for Justice and Equality in recognition of his loyal service to the State. Nominations in respect of the Stack Medal can be made to the Irish Prison Service on their official application form.