Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I was late coming here this morning but I will be brief. I concur with the comments of Deputy Chambers and the Chairman and I fully support our troops serving around the world in the name of the United Nations. It is a long-term duty and people spend six months abroad. It is worrying for families when they see in what countries these people could serve and the changing circumstances around the world. We have just seen what happened in England and, having spoken to families, I know people are getting more worried. I know Irish soldiers are very well respected abroad, which is great. Anywhere we go, we always hear of the great respect that Irish soldiers enjoy.

I have some questions. What is the total cost to the Irish taxpayer of all the missions serving abroad? How many members of the Defence Forces are serving abroad? How many are abroad as we speak?