Irish troops set to serve in war-torn Lebanon within weeks, says O’Dea

IRISH troops could be serving in the war-torn Lebanon region within weeks, Defence Minister Willie O’Dea said yesterday.

Mr O’Dea confirmed that up to 150 soldiers could be deployed by mid-November to Lebanon which was badly damaged by Israeli bombings during a 34-day offensive. They would be sent to the area to provide protection and security for around 250 Finnish soldiers, who specialise in mine clearance, construction engineering and humanitarian work.

“Ireland will provide security and protection for our mission partners, Finland, as they carry out vital rebuilding engineering and construction work,” said Mr O’Dea. “Subject to military advice and recommendations following the reconnaissance mission, I envisage I will be in a position to seek Cabinet and Dáil approval in early October.”