I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 20 together.
At the outset I want to assure the Deputy that every effort is being made to support all of the Defence Force personnel who are serving in Lebanon during these very volatile times.
The situation in Lebanon is still tense and unpredictable. Both I and the Government are deeply concerned about the surge of violence in Lebanon and the launch of Israeli ground incursions, and have made this concern clear both bilaterally to Israel and to UN headquarters.
Thankfully all our troops are well and accounted for, and I want to assure you that the safety and security of our personnel is of the utmost priority for both me and for Government.
I will continue to monitor the situation closely, along with our partners in the UN and the wider international community. I am in regular contact with the UN and with the Chief of Staff. The Department of Defence is also regularly kept apprised of all developments in the area on an ongoing basis.
There is currently an evolving and fluid situation. While the situation is tense and worrying, Military management have assured us that all Defence Forces personnel are highly trained, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to effectively handle the challenges that come with the situations they are now facing.
There are robust force protection measures in place which have been augmented. These measures are continually reviewed and enhanced as necessary to address any emerging threats. All Defence Forces’ personnel continue to comply with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as and when appropriate. They remain vigilant and are in regular contact to update us on the ongoing situation. They remain focused on, and are committed to, continuing to uphold the UNIFIL Mandate. I wish to add also that contrary to recent media reports, the Defence Forces has advised that there are sufficient supplies of both water and food in Camp Shamrock and in the outposts. There is both fresh food and contingency food packs available.
Though it is not the practice to ordinarily comment in detail on operational matters, contingency planning is part and parcel of the planning in operational deployments, including in UNIFIL. The UN is working on several scenarios in case of an improvement or deterioration of the situation in southern Lebanon. These contingency plans are under constant review. Likewise, the Government has been engaging with the UN and with international partners as part of this process. Given the contingency plans that are already in place, there is currently no requirement to deploy Air Corps or Naval Service assets in the region.
Finally, it should be underlined that the Government remains committed to our Missions in the Middle-East with UNIFIL.
Question No. 20 answered with Question No. 19.
