Vol. 451 No. 8
265 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence his policy on the carrying of the colours by reservists in public parades such as on St. Patrick's Day; and the reason permission to carry the colours has been withdrawn in Cork city despite the fact that the practice continues in Limerick which is in the same command area. [7396/95]
Colour parties made up of members of the Defence Forces carry the national colours at various parades throughout the country. Following an incident at the St. Patrick's Day parade in Cork some years ago it has been the practice to have the national colours carried at that parade by one member of the Defence Forces without escort. I have issued instructions to have the practice at the Cork parade brought into line with practice generally.
