Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

The figures I have suggest there are around 4,200 refugees in the camps and among those there are internally displaced persons, IDPs. I understand that this figure is remaining constant. We will keep the Deputy updated on changes in the figures.

The Deputy is correct that there has been a warm welcome for troops and in my view the communication system is working well. As we all said previously in the House when we last addressed this matter, it is important that the distinctive Irish position be communicated. I welcome the fact that Army personnel were on "The Late Late Show" to inform the public of what is happening.

I support this mission, although I acknowledge, along with my colleague, the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, that it is not safe. All missions have risks but, thankfully, things are going extremely well so far.

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