Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 March 2004
52 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that troops serving overseas have access to the most up to date military and life-preserving equipment, with particular reference to operations in Liberia and other similar locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9498/04]
View answerThe safety and health of Irish personnel serving overseas is always of paramount concern to me and it is my policy and practice to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their mission.
With regard to Liberia, a wide range of equipment and force protection assets were deployed with the contingent. This equipment is of the highest quality. The contingent is equipped with 22 new Mowag Piranha armoured personnel carriers. The piranha, with its high hardness steel plate armour, mobility and firepower, represents the highest level of protection deemed appropriate by the military authorities for the theatre of operations in Liberia. In addition, each soldier is equipped with personal body armour of the highest quality. Within the context of protection, deterrence is seen as a critical factor. The Irish contingent is also equipped with six armoured reconnaissance vehicles, each of which carries a 20 mm cannon or a 90 mm gun. The equipment modernisation programme, which is ongoing, ensures that the Defence Forces are fully equipped with the most modern of equipment for their day to day roles at home and overseas.
