Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2024
150. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the steps being taken to ensure the safety of Irish peacekeepers in Lebanon; if a contingency plan is in place should a strategic withdrawal be necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42589/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt 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.
As you will be aware the situation in Lebanon is currently very tense and unpredictable. I am deeply concerned about the surge of violence in Lebanon and the launch of Israeli ground incursions and in particular where breaches of the Blue Line by Israel are close to where we have Irish personnel.
I can confirm to you that all our troops remain well, despite the circumstances 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 remain in regular contact with the UN and with the Chief of Staff with regard to the ongoing situation. The Department of Defence is also regularly kept appraised of all developments in those areas where Defence Forces personnel are deployed. The UN has stated that UNIFIL continues to engage actively with the parties to help de-escalate tensions along the Blue Line.
There is no doubt that our troops are operating in a particularly challenging environment, but I can reassure the Deputy that there are robust force protection measures in place to support the safety and security of all personnel, and these measures have been augmented and are continually reviewed and enhanced to address any emerging threats.
All Defence Forces’ personnel continue to maintain an elevated level of vigilance and monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas. They are complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as and when appropriate, and their operational tasks are currently restricted due to the security situation.
It is important to remember that all our people are highly trained, well equipped, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to effectively manage the challenges that come with peacekeeping in this volatile region.
I also wish to reassure the Deputy that ongoing risk assessments are carried out in the mission area and personal equipment and force assets are continually reviewed so that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their role and support their safety. Unfortunately, no mission is without danger, but based on the military advice I have received, I am satisfied that all appropriate security measures are in place to provide for the safety of all Defence Forces personnel serving overseas.
Contingency planning is part and parcel of the planning in operational deployments, including in UNIFIL. Given the ongoing security issues in South Lebanon, contingency planning is ongoing should the need for evacuation arise.
The situation remains tense and unpredictable but I can assure you that I will, along with the Government, continue to monitor the situation closely along with our partners in the UN, the EU and with international community. It should be underlined however that the Government remains committed to our Missions in the Middle-East, with UNIFIL.
