Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It was a Government decision. The Deputy mentioned Operation Sophia. It came within the triple-lock mechanism as it is a UN-mandated mission. It received Government approval and the approval of this House. I have never been afraid to bring decisions to the Chamber, knowing that I could walk out the door saying the Dáil and the Government had made the right decision. This is good for the Defence Forces and Ireland. I hope the Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett, will get the nod and win the vote. I wish him the very best. The Government and the diplomatic corps have given him help. It sends a very strong message that we have people who are capable of holding a position such as this.

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