Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): On the 13th June last I decided to award a medal to the men of “A” Company, 35th Infantry Battalion and to family representatives of deceased members, to give full and due recognition in honour of the courageous actions of the men during the siege at Jadotville in September 1961. This fully recognises their bravery and courage during the unique circumstances of the Siege of Jadotville.
A working group comprising civil and military officials has been established to co-ordinate efforts required to implement the plans for a medal ceremony. It has been agreed that the event will take place in Custume Barracks, Athlone where “A” Company assembled in advance of their deployment to the Congo.
Consideration is being given to suitable dates for this event and that includes liaison regarding local events taking place in Athlone. The design and procurement process of the medals is the other main factor impacting on finalising a date for the ceremony. As the delivery of the medals cannot be guaranteed in advance of 21st October 2017, unfortunately the medal ceremony cannot take place on that date. The Department are actively considering other suitable dates.
