Safety of Irish troops in Middle East "of paramount concern" says Offaly TD

Offaly TD Barry Cowen has said the safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces personnel is "of paramount concern" to Fianna Fáil in Government.

Speaking following a meeting of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence with Tánaiste and Minster for Foreign Affairs and Defence Micheál Martin, Deputy Cowen said he welcomed the efforts of the Government and its response to the crisis in the Middle East.

"We have to reject unequivocally those who advocate for violence as a means to resolve the conflict in the Middle East. I welcome the ongoing efforts of Tánaiste Micheál Martin and the Government to seek the de-escalation of conflict," he said.

"I want to acknowledge the work being done by our peacekeepers, wherever they may be in the world, but particularly those who are in the Middle East, at this time.

"I also want to acknowledge the role of their families, for many of whom the last ten days has been a particularly worrying time.

"I have raised their concerns with the Tánaiste and I want to assure the families and indeed our troops that their safety and security is our paramount concern.

"Government will continue to monitor the situation closely along with our partners in the UN and the wider international community," Deputy Cowen concluded.