asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that the families and friends, here in Ireland of Irish troops in the Lebanon as well as the troops themselves, are somewhat dissatisfied by the lack of communication provided by the Government and the media generally; and if he will take steps to have the complaint remedied.
Written Answers. - Irish Troops in Lebanon.
271.
I am not aware of any dissatisfaction in relation to these matters.
Matters relating to the rotation of UNIFIL contingents and any serious incidents occurring in Lebanon are notified to the media by the Government Information Services. Moreover, the Army Press Officer frequently briefs radio, television and press correspondents on matters of interest occurring in Lebanon and all press queries on such matters are dealt with promptly. Communications of this nature have been valuable in informing the public generally and, on occasion, in reassuring families and friends in cases where there may have been cause for concern.
The contingent serving with UNIFIL is kept well informed of events at home. A news digest is issued to them every day and newspapers, magazines and periodicals are issued at a rate of about 700 a week. Video recordings are also issued weekly containing programmes on sport and current affairs which are shown in messes and canteens.
I might add that postal communication between the troops and their relatives and friends is either free or very inexpensive and normally takes three days in each direction. In the case of personnel with urgent domestic problems radio / telephone communication can be established at short notice.