Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On 18 February 2013, at the request of the Malian authorities and in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2085 (2012), the European Union launched a training mission for Malian armed forces named EUTM Mali.

The objective of the mission is to train and mentor the Malian armed forces to improve their military capacity and their effectiveness in guaranteeing the country's territorial integrity. Training is also being provided in international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and human rights.

During my recent visit to Mali, I witnessed at first hand the significant contribution that Irish Defence Forces personnel are making to the mission. The Defence Forces have been participating in EUTM Mali since March 2013. Currently, Ireland is contributing 18 personnel to this mission - an increase of eight personnel over the last six months. A total of seven Irish personnel occupy staff appointments in the mission headquarters in Bamako and the remaining personnel are based in Koulikoro Training Centre. The mission is now completely integrated into the military training structure in Mali. EUTM Mali is recognised as an essential partner in the reconstruction of the Malian state and the main instrument for the reconstruction of its armed forces. Our continued participation in this mission supports Ireland's ongoing obligations to international peace and security and the commitment to maintaining the Defence Forces capabilities in international operations.

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