More than 400 Irish soldiers leave for Chad
15/03/2009 - 11:12:57More than 400 Irish soldiers serving in Chad are under UN command from today.
The United Nations is assuming control of the mission from the EU which has had a 3,300-strong force in the central African state for the past year.
The UN is also increasing the force strength to more than 5,000.
The aim is to protect refugees and displaced persons as a result of the conflict in neighbouring Darfur.
Defence Minister Willie O'Dea said the UN-controlled mission will not require an increased commitment from Ireland.
