Defence Forces peacekeeping service
Senator Leyden seconds the amendment concerning the Order of Business and strongly praises the Defence Forces’ professionalism and peacekeeping work in the Golan Heights and Bosnia.
I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Darragh O'Brien.
Comment on this
I share the commendation given by the Leader of the Opposition to the Defence Forces which acquitted themselves very well, as they have in the past, in the Golan Heights region where they are holding the peace between the Syrians and the Israelis. They were in a very difficult position and handled themselves extremely well. It is a very well organised and trained army. I visited Bosnia-Herzegovina with members of the Defence Forces on an election mission during which they were doing civilian work. Their knowledge and training were exemplary and equal to that of any army. It is a very disciplined force. We all wish it well. It was a great homecoming. I am delighted that the Minister for Defence went to meet those who were returning at Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel. It is good recognition of their position.
The situation in the region is extremely fraught, particularly in the Kurdish town of Kobani which is under siege by ISIS. Turkey is standing idly by in this regard, but it should provide support for the Kurdish people to prevent ISIS from taking over Kobani. ISIS will eventually move into Turkey. It is the most serious threat in the region. I spoke to a member of the Kurdish community who addressed a meeting of the Council of Europe last week. He explained how they were let down by the Turkish Government. Kurds are being refused re-entry to Kobani to defend themselves against ISIS. Our Minister should become active in this regard. The situation is fraught and very serious and it is very important that we play a part.
I agree with the analysis of Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell. The Governor of the Central Bank has decided that next January anyone who wants to buy a house must have a deposit of 20%. This gives an advantage to those who have houses to sell now.