I have given you, Sir, and the Taoiseach notice that at the end of questions to-day I proposed to ask the Taoiseach if he would make a statement in relation to the sad news emanating from the Congo.
Private Notice Question. - Death of Irish Soldiers in Congo: Expression of Sympathy.
The members of the House have, no doubt, already heard the tragic news which has reached us today from the Congo. Despite the efforts of the Minister for Defence to ascertain the full facts, the information available is not yet complete. It appears, however, that a patrol of eleven members of A Company, 33rd Battalion, of the Irish contingent to the United Nations Force operating from Niemba was attacked yesterday. It has been reported that some bodies were seen at the scene of the attack. One member of the patrol escaped with injuries and is believed to be in hospital. Strong forces have now been despatched to recover the bodies and to locate the missing members of the patrol. Aircraft are being used in the search which is also being assisted by the Ethiopian battalion located in the area.
The relatives of the missing members of the patrol are being informed, and every effort is being made to get further particulars with the least possible delay.
I know that every member of Dáil Éireann is profoundly grieved by this event. The men who have died have bravely given their lives in a most noble cause—the maintenance of peace. I would ask you, a Cheann Comhairle, to convey to their relatives an expression of the deep sympathy of Dáil Éireann.
Members rose in their places.