Vol. 426 No. 1
53 Mr. Barry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if there is any evidence that Irishmen are serving as mercenaries with any of the factions in former Yugoslavia; and, if so, the proposals, if any, he has to take action in the matter.
Because of the nature of the conflict in the former Yugoslavia and the right of Irish citizens to travel freely, the number of Irish citizens who may be serving there as mercenaries is not known. I am aware that some Irish citizens have been involved in the fighting but reports do not suggest that they are serving in the area in significant numbers.
I utterly deplore the fact that many nationals from a wide range of countries are engaged in mercenary activities in former Yugoslavia. Their activities exacerbate the violence being carried out by the factions in the region and also work against our fundamental objective of securing a lasting settlement through negotiations.
Under the Defence Act, 1954 it is an offence to recruit on behalf of foreign armies within the jurisdiction of the State. Although the Government cannot prevent nationals from travelling abroad to engage in mercenary activities, I would earnestly advise anyone contemplating such a course to consider the potentially tragic consequences of their action.
