Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
183. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of Irish troops based in Lebanon; and if there is a process in place to keep their families briefed, in view of the volatile situation currently in Lebanon and the wider region. [47368/23]
View answerThe Defence Forces have almost 500 personnel serving between the three UN missions in the region – United Nations Interim Force Lebanon, UNIFIL (319), United Nations Disengagement Observer Force, UNDOF (136) and United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation UNTSO (13).
The safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to the Government. I am in ongoing contact with the Chief of Staff and the Department of Defence and being kept apprised daily of all developments in areas where our Defence Forces’ personnel are deployed.
Defence Forces' personnel are well trained prior to deployment to mitigate against risks and scenarios that may arise in deployments overseas, including the circumstances in which they find themselves currently. All Defence Forces’ personnel are maintaining a high level of vigilance and continue to monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas. They are complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions (Groundhog), as appropriate.
I am advised by military management that arrangements are in place to ensure that the families of Defence Forces personnel are kept informed of developments. To this end, relevant updates are passed through Unit liaison officers at home with a view to keeping families and loved ones informed. Family members can also contact their liaison officers if they have any specific queries, which will be addressed subject to operational security considerations.
