Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I am pleased to assure Deputy Durkan on those points. I agree that adequate equipment is necessary. As the Deputy observed, the vastness of the area makes air transport necessary, as well as effective communications. Troops can be easily and quickly isolated in a place of this magnitude. It is a hostile environment. I assure the House that the force commander will not deploy unless he is satisfied beyond a shadow of a doubt that sufficient logistical supports are in place.

It is a judgment for the Irish military as to what equipment is supplied with the troops. We will supply a large quantity of Mowag APCs and heavy mobility lift vehicles. We will also supply a large amount of construction equipment because there will be extensive building work to be undertaken, including airports, roads and so on. A detailed specification is available for that. I am glad Deputy Durkan has afforded me the opportunity to assure the House on these matters.

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