Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and extend best wishes to the Minister for Defence on his work on the mission to Chad. The Fine Gael Party supports the deployment of 400 troops to Chad with some reservations. I congratulate Major General Pat Nash and wish him, the initial group of 50 rangers and the 400 strong force the best of luck on their deployment.

While I have never been to central Africa, I visited South Africa in 1994 for the first democratic election, which was an amazing event. We have not given sufficient credit to the former President of South Africa, Mr. F. W. de Klerk, for the wonderful work he did in helping to create peace in South Africa. It is wonderful that South Africa has remained peaceful through changes in government since 1994.

In light of the centuries of conflict in Ireland, specifically the conflict in Northern Ireland in recent decades, we are in a strong position to send troops on peacekeeping missions. We have also learned the value of peace since the ending of the conflict in recent times. We also have individuals of a high calibre, including Major General Pat Nash, who are available to take control of peacekeeping missions.

I compliment those members of the Defence Forces who have signed up to participate in the mission to Chad. It is extremely brave to put one's life on the line for peace, not knowing whether one will return. The operation is planned to last for 12 months. Is it possible it will be extended, given the potential of the conflict in Chad to destabilise central Africa in general?

As was noted in the Dáil yesterday and in the national media, Chad, the fifth largest state in Africa, is larger than any European Union country and three times bigger than California. I am not sure whether more recent statistics are available but according to figures from 1993, life expectancy in Chad is only 47 years and 47% of the people are under the age of 15 years. In terms of religious composition, 54% of the population is Muslim, 20% Catholic, 14% Protestant and 3% atheist. Does religion play a role in the conflict, as was the case here?

There is widespread concern about the safety of the Irish troops who will take part in the mission to Chad. Initially, 50 rangers will travel to the country on a dangerous mission to prepare the ground, establish camps and so forth. The Minister of State does not believe this group will face dangers, whereas I am certain they will be in danger. I understand only three helicopters are available for the mission, which requires approximately 20 helicopters.

Have any ladies signed up for the mission?