THE IRISH Defence Forces mission in Chad presents an important opportunity for the army to play its role as part of a European force, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said yesterday.
Mr Ahern was speaking yesterday following a briefing from Lieut-Gen Pat Nash, the commander of the European operation in Chad. Mr Ahern said he was very pleased to get the briefing. It was a great honour for the country that Lieut-Gen Nash was "one of our own" and that Ireland could play such a vital role.
"The importance of it for Ireland is that it is an opportunity for our army to play its part in the European context, to play a very important role."
Mr Ahern said he accepted the mission was not without danger to Irish troops. The European force suffered its first fatality last month when two French soldiers strayed across the border into Sudan and came under fire from the Sudanese army. A French soldier was shot dead and Sudan said five civilians were killed.
"We have to acknowledge that these missions aren't easy, we wouldn't be going there if they were easy. The information that I have received is that no mission is without risk but all of the safety standards and all of the preparation is almost in place."
Lieut-Gen Nash said the challenges remained considerable.
"This operation has not been without its difficulties to date and continues to have its challenges but we have gained a much sought after momentum, have a clear mission and the military means to achieve it. There is an expectation on the ground and we intend to meet it."
Lieut-Gen Nash said he had been "heartened and I have to say relieved" by the reception the forces had received in Chad.
In the coming weeks an advance party of 200 Irish engineers and transport personnel will arrive in Chad to set up the Irish camp.
