Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Oct 1994

Vol. 445 No. 6

Written Answers. - Protection of Rwandan Refugees.

Michael Noonan

Question:

110 Mr. Noonan (Limerick East) asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consider a role for Irish soldiers in protecting refugees in Rwanda, in particular in shepherding refugees safely over the border; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [160/94]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

The conflict in Rwanda has given rise to one of the largest and most difficult refugee crisis in the world. In addition to the 2 million people who are displaced inside Rwanda more than 1.5 million Rwandans have fled to neighbouring countries, 850,000 are in refugee camps in Zaire and 520,000 are in camps in Tanzania.

The efforts of the international community are helping to alleviate the terrible conditions in the camps. But any long-term solution must involve a return of the refugees to their home country. The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, the UN Force in Rwanda (UNAMIR) and the UNHCR are working to create the conditions which would enable such a return to take place.

Since the outbreak of the conflict in April the Government has allocated £3.25 million for humanitarian relief. In addition over 60 members of the Defence Forces are assisting, in a civilian capacity, in the humanitarian work of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and of Irish Non-Governmental Organisations in Rwanda/Zaire.

Inside Rwanda the UN Assistance Mission (UNAMIR) has responsibility for providing security and support for returning refugees. The force is close to attaining its authorised strength and Ireland has not been requested by the UN to contribute troops to it.