Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2016

Wednesday, 13 January 2016

Questions (437)

Pádraig MacLochlainn

Question:

437. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Defence if he will convene a medal and awards review board comprising of a wide cross-section of the Defence Forces to examine the reinstatement of the good conduct medal under new conditions and criteria; and if all officers and enlisted personnel with ten years exemplary service as recorded on the electronic personal management system will be awarded this medal. [46652/15]

Written answers

Minister for Defence

Currently, the Defence Forces Service Medal is awarded to personnel who meet the qualifying service for its award. Moreover, it recognises the service of not only NCOs and Privates but all members of the Defence Forces. It is considered that the current range of medals awardable to the Defence Forces is appropriate and adequate, and accordingly, I have no plans for the re-instatement of the Good Conduct Medal.