Jack
the brassard is indeed of the type used by units deployed to the Congo as part of of the UN force "ONUC"
The 2nd Armd Car Sqn. under the command of Condt. J. Foley was a composite group formed at Plunkett Bcks. Dublin from home units specifically for service in the Congo, it consisted of 9 officers, 21 NCOs and 66 troopers for a total strength of 96. The unit left Ireland on 24 Oct 1962. The unit was equipped with Ferret Mk II scout cars. It existed from Oct 1962 to Apr. 1963 only. The shoulder title was worn on active service.
The national flash , Shamrock on red shield was used from 1964 - 1987.
Note that some of the Irish ONUC and UNFICYP unit insignia are reproduced and sold by Andrew Butler (a member of the forum)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/IRISH-EIRE-C...cAAMXQlgtS-fFF
James Perkins' web site is falling into disrepair but the following is still active and shows some of the overseas unit insignia...
Note that Ireland typically forms composite units for overseas service rather than shipping out home units
http://www.irishmilitaryinsignia.com...ash_index.html
John