asked the Minister for Defence why the application for a Military Service Medal made by a person (name supplied) over twelve months ago has not yet been dealt with.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Military Service Medal Application.
53.
The applicant referred to in the Deputy's Question applied for a Service (1917-1921) Medal in 1949. The evidence then available did not establish that he was a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann (IRA) continuously during the three months ended the 11th July, 1921. Consequently, the application could not be granted and the applicant was notified accordingly on the 20th July, 1951.
Following representations made by the Deputy in November, 1961, the case was re-opened. The subsequent investigation has necessitated protracted enquiries which have only now been concluded. The additional evidence obtained does not, however, establish that the applicant was a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann during the critical three months, and he is being notified accordingly.
Does the Minister not agree that two officers who served in the unit have certified that he was in fact in it during the three critical months?
I can assure the Deputy that, on the evidence before me, the application has no merit.