asked the Minister for Justice the total number of members of the Garda Síochána now serving who are in possession of an I.R.A. Service Medal with bar; and how many of these members have already entered on the period of two years' extension of service alloted to such medal holders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Medal Holders: Extension of Service.
8.
Mr. Ryan
The total number of serving members of the Force claimed to be in possession of Medals with Bar is 190. In 179 cases these claims have been confirmed and the remaining cases are with the Department of Defence for verification.
The numbers of members at present serving under the age extension is 18.
9.
Mr. Ryan
asked the Minister for Justice whether any conditions other than possession of an I.R.A. Service Medal with bar are laid down for members of the Garda Síochána in order to qualify for the two years' extension of service; and whether members who qualify are given the option of accepting a cash payment in lieu of the two years' extended service.
Apart from possession of an I.R.A. Service Medal with Bar the only other condition laid down before a member can qualify for the two years' extension of service is that such member must have been a member of the Force on or before the 31st December, 1951.
The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.