Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

We have discussed at length the contingents that have served abroad. Constituents of mine have pointed out that when Irish troops serve abroad they get involved in charity and community works. Does this impact on the Minister's office? Can he provide assistance in this regard?

During the week, I was asked by someone from Templeogue to explain the reason the Department and Defence Forces do not use the expertise of those who have served abroad. The first contingent of troops went to Lebanon in 1978. This former soldier asked me why the expertise that is still available is not being used by the Army to assist those going abroad on these dangerous missions.

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