Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

Some issues arise from the Minister's reply. Will the Minister indicate whether he has any idea whether the term in Lebanon will be extended or the commitment of troops will be increased, based on the assumption that the return from Liberia would allow an opportunity to supply more troops to Lebanon? Were additional troops or an extension of the period of commitment requested during the Minister's visit to Lebanon?

The Minister referred to the recruitment of 40 apprentices. The apprenticeship school was closed several years ago. My understanding is that this has caused some difficulty. Has the Minister any reason to review the decision to close the apprenticeship school with a view to re-opening it at the Curragh Camp? What are his views on this matter? Will he agree to consider the impact of the closing of the apprenticeship school on the Defence Forces?

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