Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

That will have to be decided by Government.

On the issue of medical facilities to be provided, as well as a level two hospital in Abeche, there will be a level one facility with each battalion with a capacity to support a minimum of two locations. There will also be a level one-plus medical facility with the company group in Boro and access to a level two facility in N'Djamena. Norway will replace Italy in providing medical care when the mission re-hats on 15 March.

There were a number of questions regarding the International Criminal Court as pertaining to the events in Darfur. Ireland fully supports the International Criminal Court's fundamental role in the promotion of international justice and the fight against impunity. Those responsible for the abuse of human rights in Darfur must face the consequences of their actions, as this is necessary both for the sake of common justice and to deter further acts of this kind.

We were all shocked to hear that the Sudanese authorities have decided to expel approximately ten NGOs engaged in essential humanitarian work in Darfur, and this is yet another signal of the Sudanese Government's appalling disregard for human life in Darfur. The Department of Foreign Affairs is in contact with Irish NGOs which work in Sudan and is monitoring the position closely. So far the programmes of the Irish NGOs have not been directly affected but the working environment is clearly becoming more difficult.

I understand that some of the NGOs expelled from Sudan are in receipt of Irish Aid funding and the Department of Foreign Affairs will follow up with the organisations concerned. The Minister for Foreign Affairs has issued a statement of his position in that regard.

I commend the individual members of the Permanent Defence Force who have served and continue to serve on overseas missions, as I commend their families and loved ones. Ireland's substantial contribution to the international peace effort depends on the ongoing commitment of Defence Forces personnel to serve overseas in difficult and dangerous circumstances. Their commitment, service and loyalty to the tradition of the Defence Forces and overseas services contributes extensively to the high regard in which Ireland is held within the international communities.

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