Vol. 551 No. 3
124 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence the reason service medals have not been provided for members of the 8th infantry battalion, the 5th cavalry and the 10th infantry battalion; the number of members of each of these units who are due service medals and bars in recognition of their service; when these will be issued and presented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10420/02]
Units do not hold stocks of service medals and bars in stores. Service medals and bars are requisitioned retrospectively by 31 March each year, through brigade records and data management, for personnel entitled to these medals. When sanctioned, units draw medals and bars from brigade clothing stores for issuing to personnel who have the required satisfactory service. Medals are generally presented on a formal parade during annual training camps. I have been advised by the military authorities with regard to the three units specifically mentioned by the Deputy, that two, 8th infantry battalion and 10th infantry battalion, have submitted requisitions for medals for the period ending on 31 March 2002. The 5th cavalry squadron has personnel awaiting service medals or bars from 2000-01. Requisitions have been completed in respect of all these personnel and the service medals or bars are awaiting issue to brigade clothing stores.
