Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is not the view of the UN Security Council or of UN headquarters. People who are engaged in peacekeeping missions all over the world all the time strongly hold the view that UNDOF still has value in terms of bringing some stability and capacity for observance. It acts as a significant deterrent on both sides not to breach the agreement that is linked to the setting up of the UNDOF mission. We have an incredibly complex network of conflicts in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Afghanistan. The tensions in Israel are linked to its relationship with the Palestinians. All of this requires international observance and attempts by the UN to bring stability when and where possible. Part of that effort is the UNDOF mission. I think Ireland's participation in it is still worthwhile. I value it. Having visited troops in the region, I assure Deputy Wallace that they believe they have a worthwhile role there.

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