Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)

The primary role of the de-mining is in respect of training Ukrainian civilian authorities to clear mines. This is done by members of the Defence Forces. Ireland has a particular expertise globally in de-mining. We have been to the forefront of a number of training missions across Africa. We are still active in Uganda through the United Nations. In the last two years the Defence Forces acquired new de-mining equipment that is top of the range, to ensure that our Defence Forces officers are able to implement that, not only when participating in peacekeeping missions, but also when they are training.

If I may refer to a very clear point the Deputy made at the end of his last intervention, the material impact of this ongoing war in Ukraine is felt by every single household in this country. It is felt in our grocery bills and energy bills. The further this war goes on, the further Russia is allowed to make advances, it hurts the Irish people in their pocket as well as detrimentally and existentially hurting the security of not just Ireland but Europe going forward.

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