A total of 33 Irish personnel, including one soldier who is missing presumed dead, have died on service in Lebanon since 1978. Of these, 15 were killed on duty and 18 died in accidents or from natural causes. Twenty five members of the Permanent Defence Forces have been wounded while serving with UNIFIL.
All incidents involving loss of life or serious injury of Irish UNIFIL personnel are investigated thoroughly both by the Irish contingent and by UNIFIL headquarters. Where possible, these investigations attribute cause and recommend possible ways of avoiding further casulaties. It is apparent from a review of the overall situation that the cause common to all cases of death and injury arising from duty in South Lebanon is related to the activities of the Israeli-backed militia, other armed elements and the Israeli Defence Forces. All of these incidents have been the subject of protest at Government and diplomatic level and by the UNIFIL authorities to the Israeli Defence Forces.
All developments affecting the safety of Irish personnel serving in UNIFIL are closely monitored and security procedures are continually reviewed. Prior to departure on overseas service troops undergo a comprehensive training programme which is specifically designed to assist them in carrying out their peace-keeping duties with maximum protection. Personnel are issued with a modern range of weapons and equipment. Operating procedures in Lebanon are geared to provide maximum safety for our troops. Irish positions are defensively fortified and bunker facilities are provided for all personnel. Every effort will continue to be made to ensure the greatest possible protection for our troops on overseas service.
