Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Who decided to lease these helicopters, knowing quite well that they could only move equipment and food, but not personnel? The first thing they should have looked into was whether they were licensed to move troops. Parts of the area under Irish control are 300 km from the base in Goz Beida. Surely someone made a mistake, because lives could be at risk over this issue.

Can the Minister assure the House that he now has cover for the Irish mission in its area of operations? Finally, as he may be aware, the greatest challenge now lies ahead, since the rainy season is over. I understand that guerilla forces, bandits and rebel groups are queuing up at this stage to do various things. The Irish mission will be there in the centre and needs this type of support now more than ever. I am sure these helicopters cost a good deal, and perhaps the Minister can tell us how much.

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