Gabrielle McFadden (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to ask the House to welcome home the 109th Infantry Battalion from UNIFIL. The troops return home today from Lebanon having served for six months. It was great to see families being reunited in the airport this morning. The State is immensely grateful to the soldiers for the wonderful, invaluable work they do abroad, and for the distinction with which they represent Ireland. We must acknowledge the sacrifices they and their families have given to the State over the past six months. It has not been easy for them. In view of the "Prime Time" programme last night, it is very apt that we will have the Minister in the House next week to discuss the pay and conditions of members of the Defence Forces. We are proud of the Defence Forces and now is the time to address this issue of pay and conditions for the members of the Defence Forces, in particular private soldiers. I acknowledge the homecoming of the 109th Infantry Battalion, as we did last week when we wished the 110th Infantry Battalion well when it was going out. I am grateful to the Leader for inviting the Minister next week to address the issues.