Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Thursday, 3 July 2025

Committee on Defence and National Security

General Scheme of the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2025: Discussion (Resumed)

2:00 am

Mr. Stephen Kelly:

I do not agree with that framing of the situation, necessarily. The question is always "What is the alternative?" The fact there may be some missions vetoed, even if they are worthwhile, is, in my view, better than having a free-for-all where the Government can send troops wherever it wants, be that a possible war with Russia or an invasion such as Iraq. I hope the mandate is renewed. It is a very important mission and Ireland has an exemplary record of service. The reason Ireland has an exemplary record of service and is taken so seriously is our scrupulous adherence to only deploying in UN missions, I would argue. I hope the mandate is renewed.

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