Safety of Irish UN personnel
Kennedy said Irish personnel were serving in unforeseen circumstances and asked about their safety. The Taoiseach acknowledged the risks but said there was no particular reason for concern, while stressing caution.
First, I would like to thank the Taoiseach for a very comprehensive reply to these questions. There is one particular matter that I would like to raise. Given the temporary derogation of aspects of the peace plan for Namibia which the Taoiseach has outlined, and the fact that Irish personnel are serving in Namibia in circumstances that were not envisaged when they went there, I should like to ask the Taoiseach if he has any undue concern for the safety of Irish personnel there.
Comment on this
There is always concern when our personnel are serving under such circumstances. Such situations are often tense and confused and it is difficult to ensure that the role of the UN personnel is always fully understood and respected by others. However, we have to be guided by the UN authorities, by the Secretary-General and his special representative, in matters of this kind. At present, apart from the general position that I have outlined, we have no particular reason for concern. I say that with great caution and prudence because, unfortunately, history teaches us that in Lebanon and elsewhere the unexpected can tragically occur.