Irish troops are to remain in Liberia for a further six months and in Bosnia and Herzegovina for 12 months more, it emerged tonight.
Defence Minister Willie O'Dea TD secured Cabinet approval from his Government colleagues for the continued deployment.
Ireland will now complete its participation with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (Unmil) in May 2007, at the request of UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.
The 320 Irish troops in the African country had been due complete their final mission this month. There are currently 62 troops participating in Eufor - the EU-led Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Mr O'Dea said: "Both missions are extremely important and worthwhile and have proved highly successful on the ground in terms of peacekeeping and progress.
"Irish troops save lives, maintain peace and give hope to thousands of people through their work on these missions.
"Today's decision by Cabinet means they will be able to continue this vital work."