Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1992

Vol. 424 No. 9

Written Answers. - UNIFIL Mandate.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

27 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether any general review has been carried out in relation to Ireland's involvement in the United Nations peacekeeping force in the Lebanon; if so, the date and conclusion of such a review; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

A full review of Ireland's participation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is conducted by the Government every six months.

At the United Nations, the Secretary-General submits a six-monthly report on the UNIFIL operation to the Security Council in January and July. The Council considers the renewal of the UNIFIL mandate on the basis of the recommendations in this report. Following a decision by the Security Council to continue the mandate of the Force, the Secretary-General requests the troop-contributing countries, including Ireland, to maintain their participation in UNIFIL for a further six-month period.

Before responding to the Secretary-General, the Government review the involvement of our military personnel in UNIFIL in all its aspects. Of paramount importance is the question of the security and safety of our personnel. The Government also consider UNIFIL's financing and the effectiveness of its contribution to peace and stability in South Lebanon.

While it remains true that UNIFIL has been prevented from fully carrying out its mandate under Security Council Resolution 425, the presence of UN peacekeepers in South Lebanon has been crucial in maintaining stability in a region of a major international concern and it contributes to the security and to the humanitarian needs of the local population. The continuing existence of the Force is also an expression of the commitment of the international community to the unity and integrity of the State of Lebanon.

Ireland's participation in UNIFIL represents a major contribution by Ireland to the maintenance of international peace and security within the framework of the UN Charter. I believe its continuation is fully warranted at a time when, for the first time in many years, the current peace process offers a real prospect of achieving an enduring solution to the problems of the Middle East.