Sir, – Ray Murphy ("Ireland should maintain its peacekeeping force on Golan Heights", Opinion & Analysis, September 2nd") argues that Ireland should not withdraw from the UN Disengagement Observer Force (Undof) mission in Syria. I strongly disagree.
The Undof mission is not realistic given the changed situation in the area. The role was to monitor a demarcation line between two states that, though technically in a continued state of war, had accepted a ceasefire, a line of demarcation and monitoring of activities outlined in the ceasefire agreement. Note the word monitoring, which is not the same as enforcing. Islamic State, Al-Nusra and other armed groups have not consented to and seem to actively oppose this monitoring mission, as evidenced by their harassment and prisoner-taking, thus the mission should be abandoned until the situation again allows for monitoring of an agreed ceasefire and line of demarcation.
That the Syrians somehow prevented the deployment of desired improvised explosive device (IED) protection and detection equipment is absolutely unacceptable. That alone is a basis for abandoning the mission.We should not wait for the UN to make this call. Protect the lives of the Defence Forces personnel who are deployed. – Yours, etc,
BRENDAN MULLEN,
Hawthorn Street,
Westwood, Massachusetts.
Sir, – One of the privileges of my long ministry has been to visit several Irish battalions serving in the Lebanon. I was struck, not only by the warmth of their welcome to a wandering bishop, but also by their skill, professionalism and ability to relate to the communities where they were serving.
I have mentioned that they were wonderful ambassadors for Ireland and I rejoice to see that this standard is maintained to this very day.
The skill, professionalism and courage displayed by their service in the Golan Heights should fill us all with pride and admiration. May God keep them safe in this volatile situation. – Yours, etc,
WALTON EMPEY
Former Archbishop
of Dublin,
Rathmore,
Tullow, Co Carlow.