merrion street

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Mr Alan Shatter T.D., has today attended the unveiling of a monument in Kilbehenny, Co Limerick to Trooper Patrick Mullins, who died as a result of hostile action while on service in the Congo on 15 September 1961. Trooper Mullins was a member of the 35th Irish Infantry Battalion serving with the United Nations Mission in the Congo- ONUC. 

Prior to laying a wreath at the monument, Minister Shatter said "Today is a most appropriate day for this unveiling as it is the 50th anniversary of Trooper Mullins death. This monument also serves to remind us of the great loss felt by Trooper Mullins family, comrades and friends. I hope that this fine memorial and the knowledge that Troopers Mullins sacrifice will not be forgotten, will bring some comfort and some pride to them."  Wreaths were also laid by the Mullins family and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lt General Seán McCann.

On 14 September 1961, Trooper Mullins was a member of a four man crew of an armoured car which received a direct hit from an anti-tank projectile, whilst on a patrol in the city of Elizabethville.  When the armoured car was subsequently recovered there was unfortunately no trace of Trooper Mullins.  Despite exhaustive efforts being made the remains of Trooper Mullins were never recovered.

Minister Shatter also thanked all serving members of the Defence Forces and Defence Forces Veterans across the country, for their courage and dedication over the years.He stated that "In serving so selflessly they have helped save the lives of countless numbers of some of the poorest and most vulnerable people around the world. Tragically, in saving those lives too many of our finest young people, like Trooper Mullins have lost their own."