Irish troops in Liberia under close watch
Mr O'Dea conceded the situation in the Liberian capital was "dangerous" after Irish troops were forced to intervene in a riot last week to save the life of a civilian who was being attacked by rioters.
Speaking at the review of the 92nd Infantry Battalion bound for Liberia in Collins Barracks, Cork, Mr O'Dea said: "I can well understand why some of you may be worried by the recent violence in Monrovia this is of particular concern to all of us and particularly me as Minister for Defence."