asked the Minister for External Affairs what effect the withdrawal of troops from the Congo by certain countries is likely to have on the objectives of the United Nations in that country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Withdrawal of Troops from Congo.
49.
It is impossible to forecast at this stage the effect of troop withdrawals by certain nations from the United Nations Force in the Congo. It is to be hoped that withdrawals indicated by certain countries will, if completed, be offset by a sufficiency of new contingents from other countries or preferably by the effects of conciliation among the Congolese leaders and forces.
If, however, the present efforts at conciliation should fail and the United Nations Force should fall below the minimum strength necessary to restrict the risks of civil war and foreign intervention, the outlook for the welfare of the Congolese people and their African neighbours and perhaps for world peace would be very grim indeed.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware the situation in the Congo is being discussed at present in the Security Council and it is hoped that the results of its deliberations will relieve many of the difficulties which have arisen. The Government are following developments closely and consider it most important in the present circumstances to continue to support United Nations efforts in the Congo and maintain our contingent there.
I agree wholeheartedly with the Minister's observations as to the desirability of this country supporting the United Nations in the Congo. Would the Minister not agree, however, that the situation there does call for adequate forces to preserve law and order? In regard to that, will he say whether he has had any consultation with the United Nations as to the number of troops necessary to carry out that task?
The number of troops required to keep order depends upon the circumstances and upon whether the people to be kept in order are difficult or are prepared to keep order themselves. It is almost impossible to foretell the position and all we can do is hope that the efforts of the United Nations Conciliation Committee will be fruitful.
The Minister said that the problem is being discussed by the Security Council. Is it not a fact that it is not being discussed at present by the Security Council? Would the Minister tell us what the position is, now that the matter appears to be left hanging in the air?
The Security Council is still meeting. It has adjourned, I understand, for a couple of days.
Only for a couple of days?
That is all.