I propose to answer Questions Nos. 84 and 85 together.
Reports about the possible environmental and health risks of depleted uranium munitions in the Balkans have given risen to public concern throughout Europe – a concern which is very understandable. In the light of these concerns, it is now essential to establish the full facts following a thorough and objective investigation. These facts must then be assessed so that any necessary action can be taken by the appropriate authorities. It is vital that there should be full transparency in this matter. There are genuine concerns about health risks and possible environmental damage. Anything less than full transparency will only serve to heighten these concerns.
The key issue is whether there is a link between the use of depleted uranium munitions and the illnesses which have been reported by troops who have served in the region and by the local residents.
There are currently a number of relevant international studies under way, most notably a study by UNEP, the UN Environment Programme, which is expected to be completed in March. In response to an earlier UNEP report, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation provided UNEP with detailed information on the use of depleted uranium munitions in Kosovo. This information facilitated a UNEP field assessment mission to Kosovo last November. I understand that, more recently, NATO has made available to this programme information relating to depleted uranium use in Bosnia in 1995.
I welcome the establishment, within the Partnership for Peace framework, of an ad hoc special committee on depleted uranium to which all SFOR and KFOR contributors, past and present, have been invited. This committee is providing a forum for exchange of information among interested countries, particularly in regard to the various studies and other measures which those countries are undertaking. In addition, a number of European countries are also undertaking their own studies and investigations in this area. I hope the findings of such investigations will be shared with other concerned states and organisations.
It is not possible to give an overall figure for the number of Irish citizens resident in the region. I understand that 176 Defence Forces personnel are currently serving in the region and, in total, more than 600 members of the Defence Forces have served or are serving there. Some 58 Irish civilian personnel are currently serving with the main international organisations, including 39 Garda personnel. Since 1995, a total of 204 Garda personnel have served or are serving in the region. Apart from those serving with the Defence Forces, Garda personnel and other civilians with international organisations, there is a small number of Irish citizens resident in the region.
I understand from my colleague, the Minister for Defence, that a task team from the Defence Forces visited Kosovo and Bosnia recently to measure radiation levels and to liaise with the medical authorities of KFOR and SFOR, the two peacekeeping missions in the region. This team concluded that the risk of radiological contamination from exposure to depleted uranium munitions to our troops is considered negligible. Nevertheless, there is a need to respond if they have concerns regarding their health.
The key requirement now is for objective information. I would, therefore, regard any proposal for an international treaty as premature at this stage. No such proposal has come before the Security Council. However, I will keep all aspects of this issue under review.