Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his expression of sympathy.

If the Irish withdrew from the mission, would it make it unviable? It would certainly make it very difficult for the United Nations to continue with the mission as it stands. That there is a group in training to take over in March 2010 is an indication that the mission will be continued. It would be very unfair to the personnel in training if the mission were not continued. Will the Minister be more specific and make a greater commitment in the House in view of the fact that the savings accruing from withdrawing would be negated by the cost of bringing the troops and equipment back to Ireland?

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