Statement of An Tánaiste and Minister for Defence on the Safety & Security of Defence Forces Personnel in South Lebanon

As you will be aware from the news coverage, the situation in Lebanon remains tense and unpredictable. I am deeply concerned about the surge of violence in Lebanon and the launch of Israeli ground incursions, but I wish to reassure everyone, particularly the family members and loved ones of Defence Forces personnel stationed in Lebanon, that all troops remain safe and accounted for, and that the safety and security of our personnel remains the utmost priority for both myself and for Government.

I can assure you that as Tánaiste and Minister for Defence I, and the Government, continue to monitor the situation closely, along with our partners in the UN and the wider international community. I am in regular contact with the UN and with the Chief of Staff with regard to the ongoing situation. The Department of Defence is also regularly kept appraised of all developments in the area on an ongoing basis.

All Defence Forces’ personnel are currently safe and accounted for, and they continue to maintain a high level of vigilance and monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas. They are complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as and when appropriate. There is no doubt that our troops are operating in a very challenging environment, but there are robust force protection measures in place to support the safety and security of all personnel, and these measures are continually reviewed and enhanced to address any emerging threats.

It is important to remember also that all our people are highly trained, well equipped, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to effectively handle the challenges that come with peacekeeping in this volatile region.

As regards supplies, I can confirm that the re-supply of UNIFIL troops continues, and personnel in Camp Shamrock remain supplied with fresh rations. There are also contingency supply chain arrangements in place to continue to re-supply all of the UNIFIL mission. There are some issues with the WiFi in Camp Shamrock currently, and for understandable reasons civilian contractors have not been able to remedy this situation.

Finally, the families of our soldiers and the Irish people can be rightly proud of the outstanding commitment and performance of our troops in South Lebanon, their courage and dedication do not go unnoticed and their strength inspires us all, and as the Chief of Staff has stated this morning, both I and the Defence Forces greatly appreciates the support of the family members of personnel at this difficult time.

ENDS