Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

The troops will be leaving around 31 October. Does the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, plan to visit the troops before Christmas or will he visit the observers already out there before the troops are deployed?

The Minister will be aware that this additional commitment, which we in the Fine Gael Party support, will place additional strain on resources. Does he plan to increase the strength of the Defence Forces? How will he deal with the additional strain placed on Defence Forces resources in Ireland, given overseas commitments?

Has the Minister had discussions recently with either the Israeli ambassador or the Iranian ambassador based here in Dublin or with representatives of the Lebanese and Syrian embassies in London? Has the Minister for Foreign affairs engaged in such discussions? If not, would the Minister for Defence consider meeting them before Irish troops are deployed in the area? These are the countries with influence in the region and if difficulties arise it is important we have a direct link to someone who can bring influence to bear in the area.

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