Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that the safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to Government, that I, as Tánaiste and Minister of Defence, remain in ongoing contact with the Chief of Staff, and that the Department of Defence is kept apprised of all developments in those areas in which Defence Forces’ personnel are deployed.

Furthermore, all reasonable measures are being taken to ensure the safety and security of all Defence Forces' personnel. All Defence Forces’ personnel in Lebanon are maintaining a high level of vigilance and continue to monitor the developing situation in their mission areas.

As of 06 March 2024, Ireland is contributing 345 Defence Forces personnel to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). I am advised that the situation in Southern Lebanon is dynamic and unpredictable with kinetic activity continuing to emanate from both North and South of the Blue Line. However, the Irish troops of the 123rd Infantry Battalion UNIFIL continue to monitor the situation and conduct planned framework operations as mandated, while also complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions (GROUNDHOG), as and when appropriate.

Finally, I wish to assure the Deputy that Defence Forces’ peacekeepers are well trained prior to deployment and prepared to anticipate events such as occasions of sporadic fire in their Area of Operations. This training includes complying fully with all UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as appropriate, as they have had to do on several occasions since the outbreak of hostilities. Furthermore, contingency planning and risk assessments are part and parcel of the planning in operational deployments and are also carried out on a continual basis. We will continue to monitor the situation closely along with our partners in the UN and the wider international community.