McEntee wants Irish troops in EU Lebanon mission

Irish Defence Minister Helen McEntee said she wants Irish troops to take part in the military side of a new European Union mission in Lebanon, but said their participation depends on reform of Ireland’s Triple Lock deployment rules. McEntee made the remarks during a visit to Lebanon from October 25 to 27, as Ireland prepares to end its contribution to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). She said Ireland had indicated it would participate in the EU mission’s civilian work and that she also wants Irish forces involved in its military role. The mission’s specific tasks for Irish troops have not been agreed publicly. The EU mission is intended to support Lebanese institutions. McEntee said possible Irish duties could include peacekeeping and peace enforcement, and described Irish troops as already engaged in peace enforcement under current arrangements. She said reform of the Triple Lock was necessary for Ireland to take part in the way she wants. The Triple Lock currently requires a United Nations mandate for certain overseas deployments. Legislation to reform it is proceeding through the Oireachtas. McEntee said she intended to advance the legislation and would...