Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I wish to propose an amendment to the Order of Business that we discuss this important matter for a further 90 minutes. I congratulate Major General Pat Nash on his appointment. This issue calls into question the broader remit of the Irish Defence Forces and the role our Army has played in protection and civil defence abroad for a number of years in Lebanon, Liberia, Kosovo and now in Chad. This is a new dimension to international defence as far as Ireland is concerned. We have found thousands of words about the issue of neutrality, battle groups and so on. For that reason, in view of its importance and because it is a new dimension to defence abroad, which I support, I propose that we continue to discuss this matter between 8.30 p.m. and 10 p.m. I move amendment No. 1: To delete "7 p.m." and substitute "10 p.m."

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