asked the Minister for Defence what is the likely period of service of the Irish troops in the Congo; and whether any arrangements are being made to relieve the present contingent in the near future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Troops in the Congo.
28.
I am not in a position to offer an opinion as to the period for which the services of Irish Troops are likely to continue to be sought by the United Nations for duty in the Congo.
The liability for external service undertaken by the troops at present there will expire on the 25th January next and the intention is to have them home by that date. It may be taken that no member of the present contingent will be on external service in the Congo after the 25th January unless perhaps at his own written request and in accordance with fresh legislation which will shortly be before the House.