Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

On Question No. 14 and the issue of subsidised leave flights to Ireland, I understand that personnel who will not be on the mission in Chad will be in its headquarters for six months. It is to them I refer. Provision was made for such personnel in Liberia. The figure I have been given for the cost of a flight from Chad is approximately €1,800. There may be alternatives. Resupply flights for the mission will be made and it should be possible to subsidise flights. After six months of 24-7 operations, the personnel would be strained. During the six-month period, they may want to return for some weekends or so on.

Recently, Members of the European Parliament visited Chad. It is of concern that, irrespective of whether we accept or admit it, there is confusion between the French force on the ground and the French forces that will be members of the EU force. The MEPs' report to the European Parliament will state as much.

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