Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2024
97. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 154 of 5 December 2023, if he will provide an update on the review of the processes of awarding military medals; when he expects the review to be completed; if he intends to implement changes to the processes involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19712/24]
View answerThe awarding of medals is a matter for the military authorities. As the Deputy may be aware, Defence Force Regulation (DFR) A9 sets out the qualifying criteria required to be awarded such Defence Force Medals. It also delineates the procedures for the awarding of those medals to members of the Defence Forces.
As previously stated, I have been informed by the military authorities that the matter of reviewing the process of awarding medals is active and ongoing.
On 26 January 2024, the Defence Forces established a Working Group to review the Award of Medals in the Defence Forces. On 15 April 2024, the Working Group submitted an interim report which is being considered within Defence Forces Headquarters at this point in time.
I would like to assure the Deputy that I will duly consider any proposals that may result from this review.
