Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The current ISAF mission will end in December 2014 and NATO will then lead a follow-on mission to continue to support the development of the capacity of Afghan national security forces. It is envisaged that the NATO-led force post-2014 will be made up of military trainers and advisors from the US and other NATO partner countries. Any participation by Ireland in the follow-up mission would be considered in the context of what other participants in ISAF are planned. The Minister for Defence will revert to Government in this regard at the opportune juncture when that arises.

It is important for Irish troops to participate in peace support operations. This has greatly enhanced the professional capacity of our Defence Forces. As with any mission, the Minister for Defence will review all missions and take into account the safety of Irish troops wherever they are.

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