Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

It is now over 22 years since three Irish soldiers serving in the Lebanon were killed in an incident or accident. Since then, the three families involved have been trying to achieve closure by obtaining the full details on the cause of the incident. The families were concerned that the incident could have been avoided. It is fair to say their efforts over the past number of years were not greatly successful. Successive Governments were not able to respond fully. It is with this in mind that I compliment the Minister for Defence, Deputy Shatter, on putting in place a mechanism to inquire further into the tragedy. The report was made public yesterday and the Minister apologised to the families. The apology does not bring back their loved ones but I hope it is of some small consolation to them.

I spoke to my colleague Senator Henry last night and she said two of the C company soldiers were from Sligo. She said it was important that closure of the kind in question be achieved. I appreciate the work of the Minister. He set up the inquiry last April. This shows we can make quick progress through inquiries once the political will exists.