Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

I was puzzled how volleyball could be one of the sports that is restricted. What sports are restricted? Is this bad for morale? Physical contact sports, be they in Chad or in Ireland, are a good way of letting off steam and of relaxing at the end of the day. The soldiers in Chad are in a pretty tough environment.

I understand that there was a significant cost in repatriating one soldier who was working in Chad. I also understand that he had to be accompanied by a medical person. Is that the real reason? Is it a financial consideration, or is it the health and safety issue to which the Minister alluded in his reply?

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