Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I join with the Minister in recognising the role that the Minister for Foreign Affairs and all other organs of the State played in this matter. I understand, however, that members of the Defence Forces played a critical role in liaising with the European Union and the United Nations. Some had served with the UN in Ethiopia and the Sudan and were familiar with the local politics, personalities and physical terrain there. They were very effective in their liaison role. That should be recognised. The Minister can probably not say what they did but if people serve the country well it should be recognised.

See this speech in context