Shatter defends decision to deploy 150 troops to Syria

Defence Minister Alan Shatter. Photo: Damien Eagers

Niall O'Connor and Sarah Stack ? 17 July 2013 02:30 PM

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The Defence Minister revealed he has secured Government approval to send Defence Forces personnel to the UN mission in Syria.

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights, is a neutral border zone between Syria and Israel.

The Irish troops will replace the Austrian soldiers who pulled out when two peacekeepers were injured as Syrian government and rebel fighters battled.

Speaking today, the minister accepted that he could "say no" to the UN's request, but said that "all the risks and threats were considered".

"We could say no. The reality is, our troops have a great reputation for the contribution made on UN missions over the years. When you go on a UN mission, you're going to a troubled part of the world. If it wasn't a troubled part of the world, UN missions wouldn't be required," he told RTE's Morning Ireland.

"I'm very conscious that when we send troops abroad, we are putting our troops in harms way, that's why the chief of staff and those working under him have to assess the appropriateness of our engaging in a mission. The chief of staff is satisfied that the proposed contingent can operate effectively and discharge the candidate and has recommended that we do provide the deployment the UN has requested."

Meanwhile, Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore said this morning that talks have taken place with the UN to ensure the safety of Irish troops in Syria.

"We have been in discussions with the United Nations to ensure that the maximum level of safety and security applies to Irish troops who serve on this mission," the Labour Leader said.

UNDOF was established in May 1974 following the agreed disengagement of the Israeli and Syrian forces in the Golan Heights.

hnews@herald.ie

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Source: http://www.herald.ie/news/shatter-defends-decision-to-deploy-150-troops-to-syria-29428117.html

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