Ulster Unionist MLA Michael Copeland has welcomed the announcement that the Republic of Ireland is to finally pass legislation to grant pardons and apologies to the veterans and families of those men who left the Irish Army to enlist in the British Army and engage in the fight against fascism in World War II.
The East Belfast representative said;
“Last year I described the treatment of these brave men as a stain on the integrity of the Republic of Ireland and one that should be removed forthwith.
We must never forget the debt we owe these men and we should honour their memory. They made a conscious decision to join in the fight against fascism and dictatorship, and to take a stand in defence of freedom and democracy in all theatres.
Once again I salute those who have led the campaign to recognise the bravery of the almost 5,000 Irishmen from the South who left the Irish Defence Forces to join the Allies and help save Europe. They were not traitors, they were heroes, and I welcome the fact that the Republic as a State now formally recognises that fact.
With the passing of time, a relatively small number of the men affected are still with us, but many family members are still alive who have first-hand memories of the injustice and discrimination suffered in the post war years at the hands of the Irish State.
I trust that the apology and pardon from the current Dublin Government will be of some comfort to the veterans and their families. I salute their memory.”