Defence Forces 1916-2016 centenary medals

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For Written Answer on : 31/05/2022
Question Number(s): 364 Question Reference(s): 27385/22
Department: Defence
Asked by: David Stanton T.D.
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QUESTION

To ask the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces 1916-2016 centenary medals that were struck; the number that have been awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

As the Deputy may be aware, medals were awarded to members of the Permanent Defence Force, members of the Army Nursing Service, members of the Chaplaincy Service and members of the Reserve Defence Force who were in service at any time during the period 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 inclusive.  

The eligibility for this medal is outlined in the DFR “An Bonn Comórta Céad Bliain 1916”, as follows:

“4. (l) The Minister may award the medal to members of the Permanent Defence Force, members of the Army Nursing Service, members of the Chaplaincy Service and members of the Reserve Defence Force who are in service at any time during the period 01 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 inclusive.

(2) Members of the Defence Forces, members of the Army Nursing Service and members of the Chaplaincy Service who die in service in the year 2016 will be eligible for the award of the medal.”

I am advised by the Military Authorities that a total of 12,700 Centenary Commemorative medals were procured, with a total of 12,524 medals awarded to eligible personnel.