Minister With Responsibility For Defence Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D., Reviews Irish Troops Heading To Lebanon

Burgess Park, Athlone – 5th May 2017

Today, the Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D., reviewed the members of the 110th Infantry Battalion who will travel shortly for service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Speaking during the Review, the Minister said “Today is about taking pride in all the work that the Defence Forces have done, and continue to do, as peacekeepers throughout the world, often in very challenging environments. You the men and women of the 110th Infantry Battalion are the latest to continue this tradition.”

The Minister added “I had the opportunity of visiting our troops in UNIFIL on a number of occasions and most recently in March of this year. While I was there I was able to witness, at first hand, the dedication and professionalism of our military personnel and the tremendous work done overseas by the Irish Defence Forces. I conveyed to our troops our deep appreciation for the outstanding manner in which they continue to perform their duties on overseas service on behalf of the Government and the people of Ireland.”

Addressing the troops directly, Minister Kehoe said “I commend each and every one of you on your decision to take on this mission. It is important to acknowledge that Ireland could not make such a substantial contribution to international peace support operations without the ongoing commitment of Defence Forces personnel to serve overseas in often difficult and dangerous circumstances.”

ENDS