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01 Nov 2025
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01 Nov 2025
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Pictured: File photo
Defence Forces personnel from Laois will take part in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), in what is likely to be the penultimate tour of duty, according to Laois Fine Gael TD, Willie Aird.
Deputy Aird said some 370 Irish personnel will be deployed to the UNIFIL mission today, in Ireland’s longest ever peacekeeping mission.
“I want to wish all soldiers from Laois and across Ireland the very best today as they prepare to go to Lebanon," Deputy Aird announced.
"With the conclusion of the UNIFIL mission at the end of 2026, this deployment takes on an even greater significance."
The UNIFIL mission, in which Ireland has contributed to since 1958, is due to come to an end at the end of next year, despite Ireland advocating strongly for continued mandate renewal.
“This deployment will help bring this long and distinguished chapter of Irish peacekeeping towards a close.
“Our values of compassion, justice, and helping those who face difficult times because of conflict will remain at the heart of legislation to reform overseas deployments and reinforce Ireland’s ability to pursue an independent foreign policy," Deputy Aird continued.
“Defence Forces personnel from 30 counties will be deployed, and we are grateful for their dedication and commitment to representing our values abroad.
“For the four soldiers in Laois, you are part of a mission of peace, humanity, and hope, and we are thankful for the work you do," the Deputy finished.
The 127th Infantry Battalion is deploying with 350 personnel, of which 341 are drawn from the Irish Defence Forces and nine from the Armed Forces of Malta.
Personnel range in experience from those on their first deployment, to seasoned Non-Commissioned Officers and Commissioned Officers. They will deploy in November and take over duties from the 126th Infantry Battalion who were deployed in May, 2025.
The personnel of the 127th Infantry Battalion are primarily drawn from the 2 Brigade are of responsibility with the lead unit being Athlone's Custume Barracks (6th Infantry Battalion).
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