Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 511: To ask the Minister for Defence his views on the concerns in regard to the Defence Forces possible service with MINURCAT (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25421/07]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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On 25 September, 2007, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1778 establishing a multidimensional UN mission in Chad and in the Central African Republic (CAR) that will help strengthen security in the region. Resolution 1778 (2007) decided that the multidimensional presence would consist of (i) a new United Nations Mission in Chad and in the Central African Republic, to be known as MINURCAT, with a mandate focusing on the security and protection of civilians — particularly refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and civilians in danger — and on human rights and the rule of law in eastern Chad and north-eastern CAR and (ii) troops deployed by the European Union with a robust authorisation to protect and support it.

Following Government and Dáil approval earlier this month, acting Lieutenant General Pat Nash has taken up the position of Operation Commander of the EU military operation with four support staff at EU Operational Headquarters at Mont Valérien, Paris, France.

The operation on which the EU is engaged is designed to provide for the creation of a safe and secure area for refugees and internally displaced persons and to allow for the distribution of humanitarian aid. The nature of the operation is fully in accordance with Ireland's traditional policy of support for and participation in peace support operations, our close engagement in Africa and our support for the United Nations, which has authorised the proposed deployment of the peacekeeping troops.

The safety of Irish personnel serving overseas is always of paramount concern to me. While no absolute guarantees can be given with regard to the safety of troops serving in missions, it is policy and practice to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately trained and fully equipped to carry out their mission tasking. All possible precautions are taken to ensure the safety of our troops. In addition, Standard Operating Procedures are kept under review in light of experience and best practice. A detailed reconnaissance of the mission area and tasking together with a threat assessment is currently ongoing and this will inform the final decision on the nature of our participation and the requirements in terms of force protection and other defence assets, should we decide to deploy troops on the ground in Chad.