Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I stated this morning, the Minister for Defence will consider a detailed threat assessment from the Defence Forces to ensure the security of personnel before any deployment takes place to UNDOF. He will reassess the situation on an ongoing basis.

I would welcome a submission from Sinn Féin or any party in advance of the White Paper. I accept what Deputy Mac Lochlainn said about the Government having a majority on this side of the House. I do not wish to be flippant, but that is democracy. Any decision the Government, the Department of Defence or the Dáil makes is not taken lightly. Everything was taken into consideration. The safety of our troops going to the Golan Heights was a paramount consideration. Our aim is to make sure they return home safely. However, there are dangers on every mission.

The members of the Defence Forces understand that they may be obliged to deploy in dangerous situations. All we can do is hope and pray that they return home safely.

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