Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The awarding of medals is a matter for the military authorities. As the Deputy may be aware, Defence Force Regulation (DFR) A9 sets out the qualifying criteria required to be awarded such Defence Force Medals. It also delineates the procedures for the awarding of those medals to members of the Defence Forces.

As previously stated, the review by the military authorities on the process of awarding medals is underway.

On 26 January 2024, the Defence Forces established a Working Group to review the Award of Medals in the Defence Forces. On 15 April 2024, the Working Group prepared an interim report which is currently being considered by the Defence Forces. My officials have been sighted on this report for information purposes. Following further guidance on this body of work within the Defence Forces, the military authorities have advised that the Working Group will submit a final report to me by at the end of June this year.

I would like to assure the Deputy that I will duly consider any proposals that may result from this final review.