Defence Forces personnel needed for EU Battlegroup amid chronic personnel shortages
Mr Martin said it was important the sustainability of Defence Forces overseas missions was reviewed. He pointed out when it was agreed last year the Defence Forces would participate in the 2024-25 EU battlegroup the likelihood of other missions being impacted was well flagged and an assessment of all missions was commenced.
“That assessment has now been completed, and the military advice provided to me was that the Defence Forces’ should reduce our commitments with Undof in preparation for our participation in the EU Battlegroup,” he said. There are currently 130 Defence Forces peacekeepers in southwest Syria serving with Undof, which since 1973 has been responsible for maintaining a ceasefire between Israel and Syria. Last year, the Government agreed to commit a mechanised infantry company, numbering 174 troops, to the revamped EU Battlegroups which will act as a rapid intervention force under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy.
The Battlegroups will be responsible for stabilising dangerous situations outside the EU while a more long-term peacekeeping operation is established. The Defence Forces will form part of the 2,000 strong German-led Battlegroup which start training next year and remain on standby through 2025. Due to the staffing crisis impacting the Defence Forces, officials have decided another overseas commitment will have to be wound down to free up the required manpower.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Defence Forces to withdraw 130 Irish troops from UN peacekeeping mission in Golan HeightsTánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin today informed the Government of the decision to withdraw.
Read more »
Whyte's - Irish Art & Collectibles, Auctioneers & ValuersAuctions of Irish art, Irish collectibles and Irish antiques. Probate valuations, Family Division Valuations, Insurance valuations, Market valuations
Read more »
The life and death of an extraordinary Irish football manRemembering Shelbourne legend Ollie Byrne, a true maverick.
Read more »
The Irish woman seeking out freedom in world’s ‘second most dangerous sport’Claire Walsh can hold her breath underwater for five minutes 59 seconds and dives to a depth of 60m
Read more »
Belfast comedian claims Roy Keane got revenge after Irish roots insultedThe comedian insulted the proud Irish man over his lineage, calling Keane 'a f****** Cork gypsy' - so Keane plotted revenge after the match
Read more »
Aldi invested €1.1bn with Irish food and drink companies in 2022German supermarket chain, which is targeting expansion in Irish market, has more than 330 local suppliers via IrishTimesBiz
Read more »