Press release
Minister With Responsibility For Defence, Paul Kehoe, T.D., Reviews Irish Troops Heading For Service With Undof - Friday 24th March 2017
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McDermott Barracks, Curragh – Friday 24th March 2017
Today, the Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D., reviewed the members of the 55th Infantry Group who will leave in the coming weeks for service with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights.
Speaking during the Review, the Minister said, “Ireland has a long and proud tradition of participation in peacekeeping missions. Irish Defence Forces personnel have served in peace support missions all over the world in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Ireland’s participation in UN and UN-mandated peacekeeping missions is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to the pursuit of international peace and security. ”
Addressing the 55th Infantry Group, the Minister said, “Soldiers from 16 counties around Ireland are represented among the 130 strong contingent here today, including 56 local personnel from County Kildare. For 48 of you present, this is your first tour of duty overseas.”
The Minister went on to say “To prepare for your deployment to the UNDOF mission, you have all completed a rigorous training programme. While this training has been demanding, it is necessary in order to ensure that all of you are well prepared to meet the demands and to discharge your duties effectively in the mission area in the Golan Heights.”
In concluding the Minister said, “Finally, I want to wish each and every member of the 55th Infantry Group, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel David Cowhig, a safe and successful mission. You are travelling to the UNDOF mission with my best wishes and with those of the rest of the nation.”
ENDS