asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the delay in having a suitable memorial erected over the graves of those members of the Defence Forces who died on duty in the Congo; and what proposals are at present before his Department for the provision of such a monument.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Congo Memorial.
41.
The Army and United Nations plots in Glasnevin Cemetery adjoin each other and it is essential that the layout in each harmonises with that in the other. In the preparation of the design consultations with the Arts Council and the Office of Public Works were necessary.
Of 212 interments in the Army Plot 180 took place during 1922-23. Great care had to be taken to ensure that no name was omitted and that the correct spelling of each name in Irish and English would be included.
A model of the memorial design was on display in Leinster House from 5th June, 1968 to 4th July, 1968. Subsequently it was submitted to and accepted by the Dublin Cemeteries Committee.
It has been a disappointment to me that greater progress has not been made in this matter. Contract documents and drawings are, however, almost ready and I expect that tenders for the work will be invited within a fortnight.
Could we be assured that the Minister will take all steps to see that this is carried out as soon as possible?
I have done that since I took this matter up over a year ago.