Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I read that Lieutenant General Nash may retire in May. Will the Minister confirm he will be there for the duration of the mission? Is there a possibility the duration of the mission could be extended after a year if so demanded?

With regard to water supply, I received reports from people who served in Liberia that the water supplied there by the United Nations was totally inadequate. The Swedes had a different system and I understand the Irish military personnel took water from the Swedes. Although the tents used in Liberia were air-conditioned, they were still very uncomfortable. I know people who lost a stone and a half or two stone in weight while there because of the humidity. Being in theatre in the middle of Africa will be much more challenging than Liberia.

I understand the Swedes had a much more comfortable accommodation unit. Is there a chance the type of accommodation used by personnel will be reviewed? Surely we are not taking the same tents to Chad?

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