asked the Minister for Defence, in respect of each year since the UNIFIL operation commenced, (a) the number of occasions on which Irish troops in Lebanon have come under attack from gunfire or explosive and (b) the numbers of soldiers killed or injured in these attacks; if he will identify those responsible for the attacks, where this has been determined; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Irish Troops in Lebanon.
259.
Limerick West): The main incidents in which personnel serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) or positions in the area of operations patrolled by the Irish contingent came under attack from gunfire or explosives are as follows:
18 April 1979
UNIFIL Headquarters at Naqoura came under heavy fire from Israeli backed militia — six personnel injured.
7 April 1980
One soldier received a gun shot wound, after At Tiri village came under attack by Israeli-backed militia, and died nine days later in hospital.
18 April 1980
Members of a convoy travelling near Bint Jubayl village were taken prisoner by Israeli-backed militia. Two soldiers were killed and another injured.
27 April 1981
Post near Dayr Ntar village came under attack from unknown armed elements — one soldier was killed and another is missing presumed dead.
7 December 1981
Irish landrover was ambushed by five armed persons (identity unknown) — driver injured.
23 March 1986
Six armed men (identity unknown) tried to force their way through checkpoint at Tibnin Bridge — sentry injured.
12 August 1986
Post at Tibnin Bridge came under attack from unknown armed elements — no casualties.
21 August 1986
Irish officer was killed in roadside bomb explosion near At Tiri.
6 December 1986
One soldier was fatally wounded by Israeli-backed militia while on checkpoint duty at post near Brashit.
10 January 1987
One soldier was killed as a result of tank fire directed at his post at Brashit by Israeli Defence Forces.
28 January 1987
Six personnel were injured in an explosion which partially destroyed post at Tibnin House — perpetrators unknown.
16 December 1988
Checkpoint at Tibnin East came under attack from unknown armed elements — three soldiers were abducted and later released.
24 January 1989
Post at Haddathah village came under fire from Israeli-backed militia — sentry injured.
24 February 1989
One soldier was killed when checkpoint at Haddathah village came under fire from Israeli-backed militia.
21 March 1989
Three personnel killed when their truck drove over a landmine near Brashit village — under investigation.
In addition, Irish troops or positions were subject to firings close on numerous occasions from various armed elements.