Although 20 countries will participate, Ireland will be the only western country to make a significant contribution. That fact illustrates the high regard the UN has for us. It knows our track record and we should be honoured that the unique qualities of Irish peacekeepers continue to be recognised. Irish peacekeepers are among the most acceptable from the contributing nations' community of troops for several reasons, including their high standards of experience. As Ireland is a neutral country, which was not a colonial power, our troops are recognised as being impartial. The Defence Forces bring more than 40 years' experience to peacekeeping. That gives the Irish soldier an almost unique understanding of the requirements for peace support operations. Irish soldiers have a talent to earn the trust and confidence of the conflicting parties and the local population and have demonstrated their ability to defuse potentially explosive situations by tact, dialogue and humour.