Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome home the 130 troops from the 44th Infantry Group who served so gallantly in the Golan Heights. Their mission was extended because of a security situation there. I am delighted the Minister, Deputy Coveney, got the opportunity to welcome them home this morning at Casement Aerodrome which was a nice gesture. I was most impressed with the welcome by the families and friends which was broadcast on “Morning Ireland”. We are very fortunate to have such good representatives under RACO, the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, and the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association, PDFORRA. I commend all men and women of the 44th and wish the 46th every success on its tour of duty. We have one of the best-trained armies in the world. I witnessed its work at first hand during an election mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina several years ago.

We should be very proud of our Army personnel’s achievement in the UNDOF mission. They were in a very sensitive area and acted courageously. It is only appropriate the Houses should extend a warn céad míle fáilte home.

I wish the 46 members every success and safety in the Golan Heights.