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9.15pm 02 Oct 2024 - Statement from Defence Forces on the situation in UNIFIL, Lebanon.

The Defence Forces would like to acknowledge and thank the families of our soldiers currently deployed in Lebanon.
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Today the Chief of Staff reiterated that a deployment overseas is not just the soldier getting on the plane but those we leave at home too. Your strength, patience and support of our troops at this difficult time is much appreciated. Support is available to you through your local Unit Liaison Officers that can be contacted through your local barracks, from information on our websites 
https://military.ie/en/public-information/defence-forces-families/contact-information/https://www.military.ie/en/public-information/defence-forces-families/overseas-deployment/  with additional supports through the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service which can be contacted at pss@defenceforces.ie. Furthermore, our partners INSPIRE have a 24hr available to anyone seeking support. 

INSPIRE is a 24-hour external confidential counselling service providing a referral and support service on a wide range of personal and work-related issues. The service is available to serving personnel of the Defence Forces and to their partners or spouses, and to their adult children living at home. To access INSPIRE, please call 1800 409-673. Personnel serving overseas can access the service using 00-353-1-685-6816. 

The Defence Forces can reconfirm that all Defence Forces’ personnel are currently safe and accounted for, and they continue to maintain a high level of vigilance and monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas. They are complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as and when appropriate. There is no doubt that our troops are operating in a very challenging environment, but there are robust force protection measures in place to support the safety and security of all personnel, and these measures are continually reviewed and enhanced to address any emerging threats. Our people are highly trained, well equipped, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to support them in meeting the demands and significant challenges that come with peacekeeping in this volatile region.