Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

I thank the Minister for his detailed response. If I understood the Minister correctly, the total number of Defence Forces personnel comes to 162. This appears to be somewhat lower than the number projected originally, which was approximately 200. Can the Minister explain why the maximum number of troops that was available was not sent?

Can the Minister clarify the nature of the tasks in which the troops are engaged? What is the nature of the support work for the Finnish troops mentioned by the Minister? Moreover, although the Minister stated they could perform other work, presumably they have not been requested to so do. Are they likely to be asked to do so or is it likely they will remain purely in a supportive capacity for the duration of their mission?

The political climate appears to be quite volatile. That said, is it the case that the military ceasefire is holding and that there is no real action on the ground? Have the Irish troops been under fire at any time since their arrival? They have been deployed there for approximately three and a half months.

In respect of the rations, is it not correct that the only rations available to the troops on their arrival were year-old prepacked Army rations and that they were without fresh food? This was highly inadequate and left much to be desired as there was sufficient notice of the contingent's departure. Fresh and hot food, as well as dining facilities, could have been arranged in advance.

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