Defence Forces Reserve

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017

Wednesday, 22 November 2017

Ceisteanna (247)

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Ceist:

247. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will consider introducing a service medal for long service for all those from the Reserve Defence Force formerly the FCA that have in excess of 30 years continuous service done in addition to the existing 21 year service medal to date; if he will further consider it in the context of the 1916 to 2016 commemoration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49501/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

An Bonn Seirbhíse (Na hÓglaigh Cúltaca) (The Service Medal (Reserve Defence Force) (formerly known as The Service Medal FCA and An Slua Muirí) was introduced in June 1961 for members and former members of the Reserve. The medal is awarded to qualifying personnel after 7 years’ service. A bar is awarded after 12 years’ service and a second bar is awarded after 21 years’ service.

The award of this medal to qualifying personnel reflects the service given by those personnel to the Reserve Defence Force and by extension to the wider public during the periods for which they served. The Government deeply appreciates and values the contribution of members of the Reserve Defence Force and the award of this medal reflects the esteem in which its members are held. I am satisfied that this medal meets the need of marking service of personnel with the Reserve Defence Force and I have no plans to introduce additional medals in this regard.