Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:19 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence whether our soldiers will remain on the UN mission in Somalia after the withdrawal of American troops.
Written Answers. - Irish UN Troops in Somalia.
Peadar Clohessy
Ceist:27 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself with the present progress of our troops in Somalia; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 27 together.
The composition of UNOSOM II in terms of participating countries was not a factor in the Government's decision to contribute a contingent to the mission and will not affect the question of our continued participation.
It is clear to me from my recent visit to Somalia and from reports from the mission area that the Irish transport unit serving with UNOSOM II is performing a very worthwhile task and has established good relations with the local community.
The principal duty of the Irish contingent is the provision of essential supplies (fuel, food, water, etc.) to the military components of UNOSOM II. It also assists in the movement of the stores and equipment of units who are deploying or re-deploying in the mission area. In addition, the Irish unit assists the Irish Aid agencies Concern and Goal as well as other humanitarian agencies.
The Irish transport company is the only independent logistics unit in the Baidoa region equipped to operate in all terrains and weather conditions. From its location at Baidoa airfield, it services 4,000 troops in the region which covers an area of 80,000 square kilometres. The unit has the capacity to move 250 tonnes of equipment or 400 troops.