Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

Unless the triple-lock requirements are satisfied we cannot deploy Defence Forces personnel overseas in a military capacity. This would require a unanimous UN resolution but in the absence of such a resolution we cannot get involved in a military mission. A decision of the Government and a vote in the Dáil is also required if the number of personnel to be deployed is greater than seven. However, even in the absence of such a resolution there is still hope. I understand discussions have taken place between Kofi Annan and the Syrian Government and a statement may issue later today regarding proposals that have been put to the latter.

In the meantime the Irish Government is actively involved in providing humanitarian assistance. It proposes to spend more than €500,000 in supporting humanitarian organisations in Syria and camps in adjacent countries. Our efforts will be concentrated in that area.

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