Ireland became a member of the United Nations in 1955. Since 1958, the Defence Forces have had a continuous presence on peacekeeping missions, mainly in the Middle East. In recent years, following the end of the 'cold war', Irish Defence Forces personnel have found themselves in many other parts of the globe on peacekeeping missions. These locations include:- Central America, Russia, former Yugoslavia, Cambodia, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Namibia, Western Sahara, South Africa and East Timor.

This extensive Irish participation in peacekeeping is regarded in very positive terms both by the Government and the Defence Forces. Indeed, in September 1993 the Government restated the roles of the Defence Forces and defined one of them as being:-

"To participate in United Nations missions in the cause of international peace".

Ireland's participation in peacekeeping operations has promoted a positive image of Ireland and it's Defence Forces both within the international community at the United Nations and among all sides in the mission areas.

Unfortunately this service with the U.N. has not been without cost. To date, seventy seven members of the Irish Defence Forces have given their lives in the cause of world peace.

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