asked the Minister for Defence if he is prepared to grant a service medal to members of the Casement Brigade in view of the risk and financial loss incurred by their actions which were inspired by the leadership of Roger Casement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Casement Brigade: Grant of Service Medal.
The Casement Brigade is not one of the organisations in respect of membership of which service medals may be issued.
It is not proposed to alter this position.
Does the Minister not agree that these men risked their lives and suffered financially? Does he not agree that if they had been captured before the end of the war by those whom they were formerly serving, they would have been shot or imprisoned or some action would have been taken by the British Government? In that way does he not think they would be entitled to a medal for that service?
The fact of the matter is that there are six organisations membership of one of which is necessary to qualify for the grant of a service medal and this brigade is not one of those six organisations.
Is it the Minister's intention to consider the matter?
No. This matter has been considered by every Minister in every successive Government.
So, will the Minister say they did not serve?
That does not arise.
I am asking a question.
It does not arise from the question on the Order Paper.
I do not say they have not served. There are other people also who have served and the question is where to draw the line. I am satisfied the six organisations covered are sufficient. If anyone has good service in any of these orgahisations, it will qualify for the grant of a service medal.