Tánaiste 'Deeply Shocked' By Offaly Company's Alleged Breach Of UN Sanctions

Thursday, 4 April 2024 09:28

The matter is under investigation by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

The Tánaiste says the alleged breaches of UN sanctions by an Offaly company are 'deeply shocking.'

An Irish Times investigation reports Irish Training Solutions, in Clara, recruited past Defence Forces members and Army Rangers to train the army of rogue Libyan General Khalifa Haftar.

Tánaiste Micheal Martin says no Irish citizen, least of all former members of the Defence Forces, should be in breach of the UN sanctions.

It related to an arms embargo established in 2011, which banned the provision of training to forces to Libya.

The Defence Minister says he's spoken to the Chief of Staff to outline his deep concern at the matters alleged in the report, which need to be examined further.

He also asked officials for consideration to be given to further legislation to strengthen safeguards in relation to similar activities.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is conducting an investigation as the competent authority, which will explore all avenues, and is in the early stages.

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In a statement to Midlands 103, Tánaiste Micheal Martin says the alleged breaches cause reputational damage to Ireland and our Defence Forces:

"No Irish citizen should knowingly be involved in activities that breach these sanctions, least of all former members of the Irish Defence Forces.

The high level of training and proficiency gained by members of the Defence Forces should never be used in circumstances such as those found in eastern Libya, nor for supporting the forces of Khalifa Haftar.

The Tánaiste has spoken with the Chief of Staff to outline his deep concern at the matters alleged in this report, which need to be examined further.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment has confirmed it has now commenced an investigation into these allegations as the relevant competent authority.

This investigation is at an early stage and all avenues will be pursued.

The Tánaiste has also asked officials for consideration to be given to further legislation to strengthen safeguards in relation to the activities of both serving and former members of the Defence Forces in regions covered by UN or EU sanctions."