John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for allowing me time to ask a question.

Last Wednesday the Minister met with General Nash in Paris. Following the meeting it was reported extensively that the mission had been delayed twice because of a lack of medical and logistical resources. The Minister said that all these logistical and medical issues had been resolved. My information is that this is not the case and that this is far from the truth.

I refer to the transportation of the main contingent of the Irish troops from the west African coast to Chad. As of now, my information is that no transport arrangements have been made. This mission should have begun last month. No contracts have been signed and as of today, Western Command does not know who will transport its men and equipment from the west African coast to Chad over the course of three or four weeks. A half an hour ago the Minister stated it was General Nash's responsibility to provide logistical support but it is also this Government's responsibility to provide that logistical support. As the Minister stated last week, if it is the case that no logistical issues are outstanding, can he tell me who will transport the main contingent of Irish troops from the west African coast to Chad?

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