Irish troops are to remain in Liberia until next May and in Bosnia-Herzegovina for 12 months, following Cabinet approval yesterday, writes John Downes.
The decision in relation to Liberia followed an earlier request from the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, for Ireland to remain for a further six months.
There are 320 Irish troops serving with the United Nations Mission in Liberia who had been due to complete their mission this month. The contingent, which has been deployed since December 2003, operates as a quick reaction force, to provide a "swift and decisive" military reaction to any crisis.
Ireland has participated in the EU-led Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina since December 2004; 62 Irish personnel are currently stationed there.
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea yesterday said the missions were very successful in terms of peacekeeping and progress.