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Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Paul Kehoe, T.D., Reviews Irish Troops heading for service with UNDOF
Today, the Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D., reviewed the members of the 57th Infantry Group who will leave shortly for service with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights.
Speaking during the Review, Minister Kehoe said,
“This year marks the 60th anniversary of Irish participation in UN peacekeeping missions and is an opportune time to acknowledge the significant contribution of Defence Forces personnel to such missions."
Ireland makes a substantial contribution to international peace and support operations relative to its size and in his address to the troops the Minister said
"Your commitment, service and loyalty to the traditions of the Defence Forces on overseas service contribute to the high regard in which Ireland is held throughout the world."
Soldiers from 15 counties around Ireland were represented among the 130 strong contingent present in Kilkenny Castle. Almost a third of the group are about to deploy on their first tour of duty overseas.
Minister Kehoe recently visited Irish troops currently deployed to the UNDOF Mission in the Golan Heights as part of his St. Patrick's Day visit to the Middle East. Referring to his recent visit, the Minister said "I was delighted to have had the opportunity to spend some time with Irish personnel serving overseas and to express my thanks for the important role they are currently undertaking in UN peacekeeping operations."
The Minister went on to say
“It is important to acknowledge that participation in peace support missions comes at a personal cost for individuals who must be away from families and friends for extended periods of time in unfamiliar and difficult environments. Without your commitment and dedication Ireland’s strong tradition of service overseas, under the auspices of the United Nations, would not be possible.”
In his concluding remarks the Minister congratulated all the members of the 57th Infantry Group on their achievements to date and wished them a safe and successful mission.