Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

Since Ireland took part in its first United Nations mission in 1958, Defence Forces personnel have performed approximately 54,000 tours of duty on 58 peace support operations worldwide. The nine members of the Defence Forces killed in the Niemba ambush were the first members to lose their lives in battle while serving on a UN mission. This was the largest single loss of life in any one incident in the history of the Defence Forces' participation on UN service.

All deceased members of the Defence Forces are commemorated in annual ceremonies held throughout the country in November of each year. The 45th annual Niemba commemoration will take place on 5 November at Cathal Brugha Barracks at which the Defence Forces, Óglaigh Náisiúnta Na hÉireann Teoranta and the Irish United Nations Veterans Association will participate. The chief of staff will attend this ceremony which includes a parade to the garrison church followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Niemba memorial.

In addition, the 33rd Infantry Battalion Óglaigh Náisiúnta Na hÉireann Teoranta committee has organised a special ceremony to mark the 45th anniversary on 8 November at the UN plot in Glasnevin cemetery. I am supporting this special commemoration with both financial and military assistance.

Neither my Department nor the Defence Forces has a copy of the publication referred to in the question. However, steps are being taken to acquire a copy.

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