Commemorative Events

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 July 2016

Tuesday, 19 July 2016

Questions (926)

Joan Collins

Question:

926. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is aware that the Army presence at the national day of commemoration ceremony held in Sligo on 10 July 2016 was greatly reduced compared with previous years; if he is further aware that the Defence Forces did not provide a colour party of guard of honour for the Sligo ceremony and that three members of the Defence Forces from Sligo were killed in Lebanon while serving with the United Nations peacekeeping force, UNIFIL; if he will request the chief of staff of the Defence Forces to ensure an appropriate Army presence at the national day of commemoration ceremony in Sligo in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22022/16]

Written answers

Taoiseach and Minister for Defence

The National Day of Commemoration commemorates all Irish people who died in past wars or United Nations peacekeeping missions. It occurs on the Sunday nearest 11 July. The principal ceremony is held at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin. Other ceremonies are held throughout the country and organised locally by the Local Authority.

The Defence Forces participation in the ceremony in Sligo consisted of 8 personnel including 2 Officers. Participation in forthcoming National Day of Commemorations will be considered on receipt of requests and will take account of all appropriate circumstances.